James Vermue: Kilworth’s Music Man Learning piano at five, then cello and choir at 10, it was clear that James Vermue was a musician at heart. For more than forty years now, the long-time Kilworth resident has laid down the groove as a professional bass player and vocalist.
James’s musical CV includes opening for artists such as Blake Shelton, Lonestar, Kim Mitchell, David Wilcox, the Kentucky Headhunters, and George Canyon. For the last few years, he’s played bass,
What James loves most about performing is learning new material and arranging vocal harmonies. “With my current band, I am the go-to guy who figures out everyone’s vocal parts,” he explains. James also enjoys collaborating with other musicians to bring a song or show together. “You’re reacting to each other in real time and creating something that looks effortless to the crowd.” One such project James is developing is “Rock the North,” a classic rock tour featuring only Canadian artists. “We missed some big shows in the U.S. because of visa delays,” he shares. “With this collaboration, we’re making it all about Canada!” When not performing or touring, James treasures being home in Kilworth, where he and his wife, Kim, have lived since 2000. “We grew up in Bryon and love the small-town feel of this community.” To see where James is playing next or book him, or one of his bands, for an event, direct message him on Facebook or Instagram. Photos courtesy of James Vermue Photo credit for black and white pics: Joshua Gillis Photography
sung, and toured with country artist Amanda Keeles, who’s releasing her second album this spring with more tours planned. When not working with Amanda, James performs in other bands, including Electric Popsicle, playing on average 50 to 60 gigs a year. He also freelances, stepping in to help other bands when their regular bass player is unavailable. For James, music is in his DNA. His mother taught music at elementary schools in London, and his dad sings and plays guitar. “My earliest memories were listening to my parents in the church choir,” James recalls. James gradually found his own rhythm, favouring rock, pop, metal, funk and jazz; music that highlighted the bass. “Even as a kid, I understood what the bass was and its role in popular music.” When James first heard Rush as a 12-year-old and realized what Geddy Lee was doing on bass, he knew that was his instrument and taught himself how to play. Other influences included Mark King, Steve Harris and Stanley Clarke.
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KKD Villager Jan/Feb 2026
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