Today we’d like to introduce you to James Blackburn.
Hi James, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My story is a little weird. I’ve been playing the saxophone for nearly 20 years, but I didn’t start performing live until I was 23 when I went back to school to obtain my teaching credential. I really started doing this as a way to make ends meet financially as I had just quit my position as a Probation Officer in San Bernardino and decided to pursue teaching in Southern California. So, I was really struggling to pay my bills while working as a Teacher’s Aide while going to school. I met Robert Steffen at a local pizza joint, where he asked me to join him and his band at a bar in San Clemente. One thing led to another, and I have made so many friends and connections along the way. I just finished playing at San Diego Comic-Con with The Flux Capacitors, and it’s shocking to think back on how it all started. I would be nowhere without the support and love of my family and companions I have met along the way.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like with anything, you get what you put into it. One of the most difficult challenges is knowing how to start and how to keep that momentum going. There are still some dry spells every now and then. Luckily, playing with the Flux Capacitors has always kept the shows rolling in consistently. Finally, I would say there is some embarrassment with getting started. I feel like there’s a negative stigma around individuals trying to be performers, and there will always be people who roll their eyes at you for even trying. Just remember to keep going, have an open mind, and listen to the mentors you meet along the way.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a saxophone player who performs solo gigs under my Alia’s “HBSaxMachine,” as well as a band player. I am playing in a great group called The Flux Capacitors. We perform all over the United States and have even played a few shows at venues around the world. We try to play classic songs from the 80s/90s, and we are currently writing new original works. I’m most proud of the growth I’ve made a saxophone player over the years. There is still much to learn, and I cannot wait to see how much more I’ll develop my skills in another ten years!
We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something a lot of people become surprised about when I tell them is that we always have fun celebrity guests perform with us. Obviously, San Diego Comic-Con was a big one with a lot of 90s and Nickelodeon actors. I remember the first celebrity I performed for was Tito Ortiz in Huntington Beach, CA, and that was a lot of fun. It was one of those “look how far I’ve come” moments! And now things are continuing to take off as more opportunities arise. I’m really grateful and blessed.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hbsaxmachine/shoreline-2
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hbsaxmachine/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=100026931110430
- Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/@HBSaxMachine
Image Credits
Experience Level Entertainment
James Donnelly
