Mark James

Texas born songwriter Mark James first came to prominence penning "Hooked on a Feeling", a # 5 hit for B.J. Thomas in 1969 and later Blue Swede who transformed it into a 1974 chart topper. However, his biggest career break occurred when Elvis Presley cut his song "Suspicious Minds", which landed him a monster # 1 hit around the world and helped resurrect "The King's" career as a recording artist. In addition to hits penned for Presley ("Moody Blue", "It's Only Love", "Raised on Rock") James co-wrote the classic "Always on My Mind", also recorded by Elvis, and a signature hit for Willie Nelson in 1982. The song earned James two Grammys® (“Song of the Year", "Best Country Song") and BMI "Song the Year." Four years later, Pet Shop Boys would score a smash hit with their cover.

Fine Young Cannibals, Jay-Z, Dwight Yoakam and Bill Withers are among the diverse array of artists that have recorded his songs. Mark's songs have been featured in such films as Kramer vs. Kramer, Black Hawk Down and Reservoir Dogs. In 2000, BMI announced James as one of top songwriters of the century alongside Paul McCartney, Elton John/Bernie Taupin and Holland-Dozier-Holland.

Garnering a # 91 ranking on Rolling Stone Magazine's top 500 songs of all-time, "Suspicious Minds" remains his most beloved and enduring composition.