James Grant's career began in the early eighties, when he formed Friends Again with Chris Thompson (The Bathers). Although short‑lived, their influence was huge, helping to define the emerging sound of the Scottish bands that followed them.

It was in Love and Money that James found more widespread recognition; four albums, several hit singles, a world‑wide following and silver discs in the UK helped seal his reputation as one of the best songwriters in the country.

In 1996 he contributed four songs to the solo album of Capercaillie vocalist Karen Matheson, including the title track The Dreaming Sea. This in turn led to him working with musician and producer Donald Shaw, the result being James' stunning debut album Sawdust In My Veins, followed by the equally acclaimed follow‑up My Thrawn Glory.

He has since released three other albums, most recently Strange Flowers in 2009. James continues to write, record and play live, including collaborations with Karen Matheson and Monica Queen.