Introduction
Gaetano "James" Senese (born 6 January 1945) is an Italian saxophonist, composer and singer-songwriter.
Life and career
Senese was born in Naples, the son of Anna Senese and James Smith, an American soldier arrived in Italy because of the World War II. He started playing the saxophone at 12 years old. He made his professional debut in the 1960s, as a member of various groups including the rhythm and blues band The Showmen (later known as Showmen 2), with whom he won the 1968 edition of Cantagiro.
In 1974 Senese co-founded and was the leader of the critically acclaimed jazz-rock group Napoli Centrale. After the group disbanded in 1978, he started a long collaboration with Pino Daniele, both in recordings and in live performances. He made his solo record debut in 1983, with a self-titled album produced by Polydor Records.
Discography
- Albums
- 1983: James Senese (Polydor, 2448 139)
- 1984: Il passo del gigante (Tobacco Records, TBLP 6501)
- 1988: Alhambra (EMI Italiana, 64-7905191)
- 1991: Hey James (Blue Angel - CDBAR 30991)
- 2000: Sabato Santo (Polosud, PS 034)
- 2003: Passpartù (ITWHY, IT CD 51)
- 2003: Tribù e passione (with Enzo Gragnaniello) (Edel Italia, 0149112)
- 2012: E' Fernut' 'o Tiempo (Arealive)
- 2016: 'O sanghe (Alabianca-Warner)