The Story So Far

James Kilbane is a multi-platinum-selling Christian, gospel, country, and Irish folk singer. Rising to prominence as the runner-up on Ireland’s national talent television show You’re A Star in 2003/2004, Kilbane has since carved a distinguished career blending gospel, Christian, country, and folk traditions.

Following his breakthrough on You’re A Star, James released a series of acclaimed albums, including King of the Road, Close to You, Hymns of Praise, Divine Love, Life’s Miracle, Heart to Heart, Glory and Grace, Songs of Ireland, and River of Grace, along with his popular holiday offering, The Christmas Collection. In 2012, he unveiled his ninth album, Gravel & Grace: Songs of Faith, Life & Hope, with a launch concert at Lorain Correctional Institution in Grafton, Ohio, at the invitation of its inmates during St. Patrick’s Week. This album, a compilation of beloved tracks and radio singles, further cemented his reputation for heartfelt, faith-driven music. Many of Kilbane’s recordings are collaborations between Nashville and Irish talent. Among these projects, his 2008 release Heart to Heart introduced a modern anthem for the House of the Virgin Mary, titled Mary’s House, Our Lady of Ephesus, a tribute to the sacred site in Ephesus, Turkey.

In 2013, James released The Songs of Faith Collection in association with Veritas Publications and Gold Eagle Music. This compilation, launched to celebrate the Year of Faith, features 20 tracks spanning two centuries of Irish Christian and gospel music cherished in prayer and spiritual tradition. The following year, Kilbane debuted his faith concept album River of Grace. In 2015, Mary: The Lord’s Servant arrived, blending traditional and contemporary Christian gospel songs inspired by scripture and prayer. This comprehensive collection of 25 recordings highlights Mary’s story through beloved hymns, modern reflections, and verses from Isaiah, St. John, St. Luke, and the Book of Revelation. Working closely with Faith Director Rev. Dr. Ken Newall, James continued his commitment to meaningful, faith-centered projects. His collaboration with Veritas Publications extended into 2017 with the release of The Family Collection, a tribute to the World Meeting of Families held in Dublin in 2018.

Renowned for his independent spirit, Kilbane has eschewed conventional industry paths, earning the admiration of country legend George Hamilton IV, who affectionately dubbed him “The Lone Ranger of Country Music.” James has achieved enduring success under the independent label Gold Eagle Music, which has allowed him creative freedom to pursue unique musical endeavours. He was notably mentored by the late Steve Popovich Sr., the double Grammy Award-winning legend of Cleveland International Records, who offered invaluable guidance and support throughout Kilbane’s career. Over the years, James has collaborated with leading music and production talents such as Gavin Murphy, Bill Shanley, Máire Breatnach, Ciarán Byrne, John Flatley and James Blennerhassett.

James Kilbane’s contributions to gospel and country music have been widely recognized. He was voted “Irish Gospel Singer of the Year” in both 2012 and 2019 and was named “Gospel Artist of the Year” by Hot Country TV in March 2024. In 2012, James and his band performed at the 50th International Eucharistic Congress in Dublin’s RDS Arena, a highlight among his many appearances at major religious events, including pilgrimages to Knock Shrine. His work has spanned cross-border religious projects and international festivals, with performances in Ireland and the United States. Kilbane’s television work includes a series of 28 gospel-focused programs recorded for Keltic Country TV and collaborations with RTÉ. For eight years, he was also a key member of the cast in the acclaimed Celtic summer stage show The Legend of Grainne Mhaol until its conclusion in 2016.

James’ path to success has been one of resilience and determination. Despite struggles with dyslexia in his youth, which disrupted his secondary education, he overcame challenges to become a heritage and cultural honours graduate. His contributions to heritage research include work on Traditional Coastal Boats of Ireland, published by Collins Press. In 2016, James partnered with Hotel Westport to create the Spirit and Soul Holiday, a Christian-inspired program blending culture, relaxation, and faith. This unique holiday experience has now moved to the Knock House Hotel, in Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland and will run three times in 2025, in March, June and October.

Beyond music, James remains deeply rooted in his personal life. Since 1992, sheep farming has been a joyful and grounding aspect of his work. He credits farming with providing balance and connection amidst his musical endeavours. Married to Christina, they are proud parents to Diana, a fashion professional based in Sydney, Australia, and Daniel, a Galway, Ireland-based quantity surveyor. Family has been central to James’ life and career, as he has steadfastly prioritised their well-being while navigating the demands of the music industry.

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, James Kilbane remains focused on new creative projects. He plans to return to the studio with his team to record a series of singles and accompanying videos for radio, social media, and television. With over 34 country singles released since 2003, James is preparing a compilation album showcasing his extensive catalogue. Additional television work and live performances in Ireland and the United States are also in the works for 2025, marking an exciting and busy chapter in James Kilbane’s remarkable career.