James Otto holds some huge hits that we keep playing through the years. His muscular voice gained the attention of millions of fans. His charismatic stage presence earned him the respect of industry gatekeepers.
James Otto
James Otto was born on July 29, 1973, at the Fort Lewis Army Base in Washington. After graduating from Kiona-Benton High School, Otto joined the United States Navy and served for two years.
In 1998, he moved to Nashville, Tennessee, and attended songwriters’ nights. Three years later, he joined the MuzikMafia, a group of country music songwriters which includes Big & Rich and Gretchen Wilson.
Mercury Records introduced him to country radio and a national audience. However, it was with Warner Bros that his career shifted to high gear. Otto has also penned songs for John Anderson, Trace Adkins, Randy Owen and many others including the Zac Brown Band hit “No Hurry.”
Otto married Amy Alderson in October 2005. Amy gave birth to their first child, Ava Katherine on August 24, 2010.
Here are 6 of James Otto’s songs to brighten up your day.
1. “The Ball”
“The Ball” is his first single and it peaked at No. 45 on the Billboard country charts.
2.”Sunday Morning and Saturday Night”
This is his fourth single that peaked at No. 58.
For You
3. “Just Got Started Lovin’ You”
It was a No. 1 hit for two weeks making it the No. 1 country song of 2008. It scored James his very first Grammy award nomination the following year.
4. “For You”
The song stayed for 2 non-consecutive weeks at No. 39 on the country charts.
5. “Soldiers & Jesus”
Otto co-wrote the lyrics of “Soldiers and Jesus” with Chris Wallin. It is a touching ballad that addresses the sacrifice military men and women make.
6. “Somewhere Tonight”
It is the latest song released by James Otto since his 2010 Shake What God Gave Ya album. He wrote the song with Corey Crowder, Patrick Davis, JT Hodges, and James Slater.
“With all the things that happen in life, sometimes you just need to break out, and that’s exactly what this song is about.” James Otto
