BRANDEN & JAMES, described by NPR music as having "dazzling cello and soaring tenor vocals" brings the soulful timbre of James on his cello combined with Branden’s powerful vocals, creating a sound that leaves audiences feeling moved and inspired. They have “become a brand-name in the classical-crossover music world alongside Josh Groban, The Piano Guys, and Jackie Evancho”. The Bay Area Reporter. As a musical duo, they’ve been touring extensively around the world since 2016. "Hardly a supporting player, but, rather, a true co-creator and co-star" (Robert Windeler, NY Times Music Correspondent) Australian cellist James Clark, began creating arrangements of familiar tunes that make you listen as you've never heard them before. Branden, a finalist on America’s Got Talent & former tenor at The Metropolitan Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and Los Angeles Opera; recently penned a memoir entitled, Lyrics of My Life which entered Amazon Books new releases at #9. It was published by Simon & Schuster. Shortly after the release of their debut album Chasing Dreams, BRANDEN & JAMES were named best unsigned artists in North America by Music Connection magazine. Since forming a duo, they’ve recorded four studio albums of classically inspired pop covers, and originals. They recently made their sold-out debut at Carnegie Hall in New York City. In 2026-2027 they will embark on a 20-city tour with Live On-Stage featuring special guest, Postmodern Jukebox star, Effie Passero. 

Branden James inspired millions as a finalist on season 8 of America's Got Talent, and he continues to do the same with his “soaring tenor vocals.” (NPR Music) Branden spent the beginnings of his career singing in residence at The Metropolitan Opera in New York City, Los Angeles Opera and Lyric Opera of Chicago. Having appeared in concert at The Hollywood Bowl, Lincoln Center and Trafalgar Square in London, his travels have also honored him with a personal performance for Pope Benedict XVI and the Nelson Mandela family in South Africa. He has kicked off games for The Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls, Cubs, Whitesox with his own passionate rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” James has also hit the Las Vegas strip, headlining "Spirit of The Dance" In television, he has served as co-host for the wildly popular Afterbuzz TV network and has been a guest on TV shows in The US and around the globe in countries such as Norway, Sweden, Denmark, South Africa, Romania, The UK, France, Italy, China, New Zealand, and Australia. He spends much of his time playing in pop-vocal and cello duo, BRANDEN & JAMES. Michael Orland, Music Director of American Idol says of the duo, “It’s always a pleasure working with Branden & James. Not only are they talented and fantastic performers, but they are also incredible musicians. The velvet sound of James on the cello, mixed with Branden’s compelling vocal talent creates a unique duo that leaves everyone mesmerized. I guarantee we’ll be hearing much more from them in their careers.”
 As a published author, Branden penned Lyrics Of My Life through Simon & Schuster. I’m thrilled to see what the future holds, and I hope my music and my story continue to make a powerful mark on this world.” 

As an accomplished musician, Australian cellist, James Clark has performed with some of the world's biggest stars including: Idina Menzel, Bernadette Peters, Olivia Newton John, Glen Hansard, Faith Prince, Lea Salonga, Loretta Divine, Sally Struthers, and Rita Moreno.  

Holding a Masters Degree in music performance from the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music, California State University, Long Beach, James was previously tenured in Adelaide, South Australia as a full time music teacher at Immanuel College, where he was Director of Strings from 2007 until the end of 2012.  Since 2014, he has been touring around the world as guest cellist with scores of composers, instrumentalists and singers. He is also an accomplished arranger, musical director, and concert pianist. James often plays his solo show entitled, “It’s Not What Ya Think” for various high-end cruise lines such as Celebrity, Azamara, Seabourn, and Regent.