Daniel James is a producer, songwriter and sonic storyteller based in Los Angeles, California. James has recorded, produced and written with and for numerous artists including Hayley Williams (including the single “Dead Horse”), H.E.R., Rhys Lewis, Coin, Wild Cub, Judah & The Lion (including the singles “Suit and Jacket,” “Over My Head,” “Why Did You Run” and “Pictures” feat. Kacey Musgraves), Oh Pep!, Night Beds, Halfnoise, Paramore, Joy Williams, Muddy Magnolias feat. John Legend, Mat Kearney, Mikky Ekko, Efterklang, Amiina and Chris Taylor (Grizzly Bear) among others.
He has discovered, signed and developed new artistic talent, and composed original music for the likes of Nike, Apple, Microsoft, ESPN, Xbox, Toyota, Hulu, The CW, Marie Kondo, Showtime, Disney+, ABC and MTV. The Nike campaign “You Can’t Stop Us” featuring his original song won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Commercial in 2021.
Outside of the studio, he has launched a creative platform called Soft Chaos that features a music-centered podcast and conversation. Daniel also writes editorials and think pieces, and has been working in the AI space to develop a first-of-its-kind audio plugin to better serve creators navigating the new frontier.
Daniel James is also known to many as Canon Blue. Under that moniker, he has released multiple albums on the Brooklyn-based label Temporary Residence and has toured with artists such as Miike Snow, Foster The People, Poliça, Boxer Rebellion and Mutemath. His most recent band project is called Night Party, and their debut album released early 2025. Working in studios from Iceland to New Zealand, Nashville and Los Angeles, James brings a multigenre and versatile approach to each project drawing from influences around the world.
Management: Dave Hopper of Violet Hill
To inquire about production, songwriting or composing, please email dave@violethillmgmt.com.
For all other projects, email daniel@xdanieljames.com.