ArtistInfo

Solitaire

voc, b,
Electronic and Pop
A.k.a. James L. Callahan

Solitaire from Baltimore, Maryland was a one-man project with pioneering live-electronics created by James L. Callahan; who performed, wrote and recorded solo synth-pop music between 1983 and 1986. James Callahan (aka Solitaire) was the first “truly computerized” artist in the Baltimore area. As Solitaire, Callahan played keyboards and electronic drum machines as a one-man show. Solitaire was often compared to English solo synth-pop artists of the period such as the UK’s Thomas Dolby and Howard Jones. In 1985 Solitaire released the 7” single “System Overload” b/w “Nothing Left to Say”. The single enjoyed limited success locally but was later “discovered” by European DJ’s and became a highly sought after record. Unfortunately in late 1986 James’ music career was halted due to ill health after being diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease. In 2008 SolitaireMusic.Net released a 12 song digital LP entitled “Solitaire – Best Of: 83-86” on various MP3 download and streaming media sites. However James Callahan’s ill health once again came into issue and SolitaireMusic.Net closed permanently in 2008 shortly after the “Best of 83-86” MP3 was released. Discography: Singles/EPs: 1985: ” System Overload” / “Nothing Left to Say” Albums: 2001: Selected Tracks 2004: Retrophaze: Digital Folklore 2007: “Echoes from our past” compilation album - Track B4 Solitaire “After Darkness (1984)” 2008: Best of 83-86

Instruments

• Vocals
• Bass

Genres

• Electronic
• Pop