My Name Is James
Randy Newman · Other Songs - Randy Newman
That's what mother called me
My name is James
So it's always been
Sometimes I forget
When I'm lonely or afraid
Then I'll go inside my head
And look for James
There's a city that I dreamed of
Very far from here
Very, very far away from here
Very far away
There were people in the city
And they come to me
But it's very, very far away you know
Very far
They'll say James, James, James how are ya?
Isn't it a lovely day?
James, James, James
We're so glad you came here where we are
From so very, very, very far
My name is James, James, James
My Name Is James
Randy Newman's "My Name Is James" stands as a poignant song in his extensive catalogue of character-driven narratives. Known for his distinctive piano style and wry, often melancholic storytelling, Newman frequently adopts personas to explore themes of identity and longing. This recording captures his signature blend of gentle melody and emotional depth, showcasing his ability to craft intimate portraits within a single song. While the track may not always dominate his most celebrated albums, it reflects the consistent quality found throughout his decades-long career. Newman's work continues to resonate for its unique voice in American songwriting, balancing humor with a profound sense of human experience. The song remains a testament to his enduring influence on the genre.