The self proclaimed “Vocal Jihadist,” and one of the most recognized news affiliate/radio imaging voices around, Brian James has died at 48 years old in Scottsdale, AZ. Brian James was extremely approachable, and was a member of the Voiceover Universe family. Our hearts go out to his family and friends. Dave Kampel, thanks for the call on this.
Brian’s Voiceover Universe page.
Victor Martorella
March 6, 2009 at 3:06 pm
My deepest sympathy to Brian’s family.
Que DIOS te bendiga y te acoja en su seno Brian.
Victor Martorella.
Frank Willson
March 6, 2009 at 2:30 pm
I used to do daily topicals with Brian at WFLZ when he was our voice over at WTSP, Tampa Bays 10. He always knew we were on deadline, he always made sure we were happy with the product, and never complained. Not to mention every read was spot-on.
Wonderful talent who had much more to offer. My prayers for him and his family.
Frank Willson
WBNS-10TV
Columbus, Ohio
James Clamp
March 6, 2009 at 2:23 pm
So sorry to hear of this news. RIP Brian
James
Beau Rafferty
March 6, 2009 at 1:45 pm
This is truly a sad day. As one of the first PD’s to use his imaging talents, we were proud of how far he went with it. (though most of us were sure that he would be BIG !!!) From that Programming meeting at X-100/SF when it was decided to first use Brian as the “Big Voice Guy” (best idea Chuck Geiger ever came up with) to the years that I worked with him at two stations in the North Bay. Brian defined the concept of “Station Voice”.
A Sad Day, Indeed !!!
Jeremy Ryan
March 6, 2009 at 1:39 pm
I am deeply saddened. Brian was a huge inspiration to me (and many, many others). The voiceover world has lost a pillar of our community. He paved the way with his own unique style and attitude. Although he is often imitated, he will never be duplicated.
To the James family… Our hearts go out to you in this difficult time. Please find some comfort in knowing that Brian’s legend will live on forever in the hearts of his admirers.
Brian, thanks for sharing your gift. My microphone will be “flying at half mast” all week in your honor. Rest in peace.
Respectfully,
Jeremy Ryan
Jim Tasker
March 6, 2009 at 12:35 pm
I’m very sorry to hear of the passing of Brian James, especially at such an early age. An incredible talent. My heart goes out to family and friends.
Jim Tasker
NIk Carter
March 6, 2009 at 12:34 pm
I’m devastated, Im so beyond saddened, Im shocked. I don’t think it’s an overstatement to say that he is one of the template voices for what we do, especially in the radio imaging realm. As a young punk coming up in radio I was a complete geek who at times has gotten chills from the talents of this man when correctly molded by the right image producer. I was also intimidated when moving into the imaging world, intimidated by the fact that I didn’t have Brian James like pipes. He’s that much of a force to be reckoned with. When I saw the allaccess net news email this morning I thought “no way, they cannot mean THE Brian James”. My prayers go out to his family, this is just a terrible loss.
Jeff Perry
March 6, 2009 at 12:32 pm
I am saddened by OUR loss….
Josh Mahler
March 6, 2009 at 12:31 pm
The greatest imaging voice there was, and a huge inspiration to me and my career. My heart goes out to his family. You will be missed.
Carlos Estanga
March 6, 2009 at 12:30 pm
Oh God ! i was a vey good Talent a great man .I’m sad about that.
Carlos Estanga
South Florida
Stuart Setch
March 6, 2009 at 12:24 pm
I am deeply saddened by this news…I am totally shocked and taken aback! I have been working with Brian imaging Q99 Grande Prairie since the launch 2 years ago…and when they said they were launching and asked me to find the VO talent to use I immediately went to Brian as it had always been a dream of mine to use him…regardless of who we use to replace him, no one will ever “replace” him. I am glad I had the opportunity to know and work with Brian for this short time, and my condolences to friends and family. I have a phone call to make now to Q…
John Weeks
March 6, 2009 at 12:05 pm
Brian was “one of a kind”. I’m very saddened.
My condolences to his family.
Chuck Matthews
March 6, 2009 at 12:02 pm
An inspiration to all. I STILL listen to Power Pig imaging to this day.
I had the pleasure of producing Brian at a few stations, most recently HAC WWWM/Toledo.
An attitude read like no other. Only Ernie Anderson had more ‘tude. That’s some heady company.
Peace be with you and your family.
Eric Morgan
March 6, 2009 at 4:47 pm
A sad loss indeed. Brian’s heart was even bigger than his voice.
Brian James gone too soon... - Voice-Overs.com - A discussion forum for the voice-over industry
March 6, 2009 at 4:37 pm
[...] James gone too soon… Brian James… gone to soon. ? ZUREK VO __________________ Colin Campbell… Voice Talent… Audio Producer… [...]
Johnny George
March 6, 2009 at 4:30 pm
The world will be a sadder place with the loss of a very talented and dear professional. Brian worked in our market many years ago, as many of the biggies have in their careers. Brian was a solid voice that stood above many and many tried to emulate his style and tone.
Brian, you will be missed.
Sadly,
Johnny George
Indianapolis
Mitch Phillips
March 6, 2009 at 4:21 pm
You were truly an inspiration, an innovator and a role model. The airwaves will not be the same.
RIP Brian.
Johnny Milford
March 6, 2009 at 4:20 pm
Unbelievably sad. You were the best, Brian. R.I.P.
Michaael J. Schoen
March 6, 2009 at 4:17 pm
Radio will never be the same without the ubiquitous stylings of Brian James.
Way too soon.
Marjorie Ocho Kouns
March 6, 2009 at 4:15 pm
My deepest sympathy to Brian’s family and extended VU community. Truly a voice of hope for our planet earth and more.
Valentino VoiceoVers
March 6, 2009 at 4:14 pm
It’s always sad when we lose a Voice Over but we know that the heavenly Father has a better plan above for Brian James.
May the Lord grant him eternal rest and May he Rest In peace.
I extend my sincere condolences to his immediate family and the VU team.
james
March 6, 2009 at 4:10 pm
R.I.P Brian!!!!!!! POWER PIG!!!!!!!! you will be missed on the BUBBA THE LOVESPONGE SHOW!!!!!