#ralph james

TORONTO, ON – (December 3rd, 2012) – Canadian Music Week is pleased to honour industry stalwart Ralph James with an induction into the Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame.  James, a veteran of the music scene for more than 30 years, most notably as the co-founder of The Agency Group Canada and originating member of Canadian rockers Harlequin, will be recognized on Thursday, March 21, 2013 at the Canadian Music & Broadcast Industry Awards gala at the Kool Haus in Toronto.

“Ralph is one of those few agents who not only understands the road, but has actually lived it,” commented Neill Dixon, President of Canadian Music Week. “It’s not uncommon to find him on the road today with one of his acts – not for the fame, but for the love of the music and the belief in the band. He’s a true music fan and has been an unwavering force in the industry for years. It’s time we brought him from behind the stage onto the stage and give him his due respects.”

Ralph James is renowned among artists and industry alike as one of the most industrious and passionate individuals working in music. His drive to redefine the role of agent in Canada began with stints at Hungry I Agency, The Agency, and S.L. Feldman & Associates before culminating in the formation of The Agency Group Canada alongside partners Jack Ross and Neil Warnock. His belief in talent and tenaciousness as an agent has cultivated international success stories for the likes of Nickelback, Billy Talent, Three Days Grace, and Marianas Trench and has guided the talents of 54*40, Big Sugar, Headstones, The Trews, The Watchmen and others.

In his role as President of The Agency Group Canada – one of the world’s foremost booking agencies – James has bolstered a team of agents currently representing many of Canada’s most successful acts including City and Colour, Metric, Great Big Sea among many more.

Prior to booking agent, James was known in music circles as bassist and co-founder of Harlequin.  He toured and recorded with the celebrated Winnipeg act from 1975 to 1987, earning Gold and Platinum status for a number of their releases and a recent induction into the Western Canadian Music Association Hall of Fame.  Their singles “Innocence” and “Thinking of You” continue to be staples at Canadian rock radio.

James’ career has been lauded throughout the years with numerous honours including five-time Canadian Booking Agent of the Year, Industry Builder (WCMA’s), and two nominations for Pollstar Bobby Brooks Agent of the Year, capped by an unprecedented eight-time consecutive Agency of the Year win for The Agency Group under his leadership.

Tickets for the Canadian Music and Broadcast Industry Awards gala dinner are available for purchase through the Canadian Music Week website at www.cmw.net.