“An acoustic voyage through songs of life and love” is the signature performance title of folk singer-songwriter James O'Malley.
James O'Malley
Performing Songwriter
James O'Malley is an acclaimed contemporary acoustic singer-songwriter based in Long Island, New York, recognized for his mellifluous tenor voice, intricate finger-style guitar work, and deeply relatable storytelling.
Born in Brooklyn and currently residing in Center Moriches, he has built a reputation over several decades as a consummate songwriter who captures the emotional highs and lows of everyday human experiences. He learned the fundamentals of guitar fingerpicking from legendary folk icon Eric Darling and draws major stylistic inspiration from a diverse group of classic artists, including Pete Seeger, Laura Nyro, Tim Hardin, and Mickey Newbury.
Over his extensive solo career, O'Malley has become a mainstay of the New York metro acoustic scene. He has peformed at historic folk venues like The Bitter End, Folk City, Cafe Wha?, The Landmark on Main Street, and the Huntington Folk Festival.
In addition to his solo work, he collaborates in the acoustic duo Take 2 alongside Candice MacLeod Baranello. Music critics and industry publications consistently praise O'Malley's evocative writing and warm performance style:
The Storyteller Gene: Reviewers frequently compare his narrative focus to legends like Harry Chapin and John Prine, noting his distinct ability to write songs that soften cynical hearts while utilizing subtle humor.
Vocal and Instrumental Mastery: Critics often liken his light, breathy, and smooth vocal delivery to a young Paul Simon, serving as a perfect complement to his expert guitar arrangements.
Industry Endorsements: Folk icon Pete Seeger personally reached out to praise his work, writing, "Thanks for the song, James!". Meanwhile, Ralph DiGennaro of Paste Magazine hailed him as an "indisputable pioneer" of modern artisanal folk music.
Chart Recognition: His 2016 track "The Writer Remains" was selected as a Top Ten Song of the Year by WFUV-FM
Solo Discography: His self-produced, highly collaborative records feature rich studio arrangements complete with pianos, violins, lap steel guitars, and horns.
Ivyland (2025) – A major critical success that charted in the Top 40 on national folk radio
The Writer Remains (2015)."The Writer Remains" was selected as a Top Ten Song of the Year by WFUV-FM
Tales To Tell (2009)
If Only In My Dreams (2004)
I'm Ready (2001)
