James Bay is an English singer-songwriter and guitarist. He was born on September 4, 1990, in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, England. Bay first gained attention in 2014 with the release of his debut single "Hold Back the River," which reached the top 10 in several countries, including the UK and Australia. He then released his debut album "Chaos and the Calm" in 2015, which was a commercial success and earned him three Grammy Award nominations. Bay's music is influenced by classic rock and blues, and he is known for his soulful vocals and virtuoso guitar playing. His songs often deal with themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth. In addition to his solo work, Bay has collaborated with other artists, including Ed Sheeran and Julia Michaels. He has also performed at several major music festivals, including Coachella and Glastonbury. Bay has been praised for his songwriting and musicality, with critics noting his ability to blend classic influences with contemporary sounds. He has won several awards for his music, including the Brit Awards for British Male Solo Artist and British Breakthrough Act.