Bob James is an American jazz keyboardist, arranger, and record producer, widely known for his influential role in the development of smooth jazz and jazz fusion. Born on December 25, 1939, in Marshall, Missouri, James began playing piano at a young age and quickly demonstrated a strong talent for improvisation and composition. He gained early recognition in the 1960s as a sideman for jazz greats such as Sarah Vaughan and Maynard Ferguson, eventually branching out into his own solo work. His early albums showcased a blend of jazz, funk, and classical influences that helped shape a new direction for modern jazz.

In the 1970s, Bob James became a pioneer of the smooth jazz genre through his solo albums on the CTI and Tappan Zee labels, including notable releases like *One*, *Two*, and *Touchdown*. Tracks like "Nautilus" and "Angela" (the latter known as the theme song for the TV show *Taxi*) became iconic for their mellow grooves and melodic sophistication. "Nautilus" in particular earned lasting fame in hip-hop, where it became one of the most sampled tracks of all time.

James is also known as a founding member of the supergroup Fourplay, alongside Lee Ritenour, Nathan East, and Harvey Mason. The group brought contemporary jazz to a broader audience in the 1990s and beyond. Over the course of his career, Bob James has consistently blended technical skill with accessible songwriting, making him a key figure in both jazz and popular music. His legacy continues to influence musicians across genres, from jazz to R&B to hip-hop.