From Recovery to Rhythm: Indie Blues Guitarist James Mattison’s Story (VoyagePhoenix)

Written by Emma – one half of the indie-blues duo, Emma & James.

James Mattison playing at the Flagstaff Folk Festival 2025.

The Indie Blues Guitarist Recovery Story That’s Inspiring Arizona Music Fans

I’m so proud to share that James, my husband and musical partner in Emma & James Music, was recently featured in VoyagePhoenix Magazine.

If you’ve seen us perform live or watched our YouTube covers, you’ve probably noticed that James’s guitar playing carries real weight — it’s emotional, honest, and deeply rooted. James's journey as an indie blues guitarist is more than just music—it's a powerful recovery story that continues to resonate across Arizona and beyond. This interview shares the story behind that sound.

“For over 20 years, a guitar sat in my home untouched — a gift from my close friend Travis, who gave up trying to learn and handed it to me, saying, 'If anyone’s going to figure this thing out, it’s you.' I didn’t touch it for years… until 2019, when Travis suddenly passed away. That same year marked the beginning of two big journeys: my sobriety, and finally learning to play that guitar.” — James (VoyagePhoenix)

James didn’t grow up playing music. He spent years in real estate — first as an agent, then a broker and business owner — while also navigating personal challenges and a toxic environment. When he finally left that chapter behind and entered recovery, music became a form of healing. That guitar, gifted by his late friend Travis, became something more than just an instrument. It became a lifeline.

We started playing music together not long after. What began as simple improvisation turned into a creative partnership — and now a duo that blends indie blues, electric guitar, and soulful storytelling. Together, we’re crafting a sound that’s honest to who we are — raw, bluesy, and real.

Want to Hear What James Sounds Like?

While we’re working on recording our original music, we’ve been sharing a few live covers on YouTube:

• Put a Spell on You – Annie Lennox Cover (Live at Tempe Center for the Arts)Soulful vocals and electric guitar — one of our most intimate live performances.

• What’s Up – 4 Non Blondes Acoustic Cover (Shortened) A stripped-down, take on a '90s classic.

If you're into live indie music, bluesy vocals, and unplugged performances with real emotion, these are for you.

Why This Story Matters

James’s journey — from recovery to rhythm — is what gives our music its core. I’ve watched him grow not just as a guitarist, but as a creative partner and as a person. It’s been healing for both of us. And I’m excited for more people to hear what we’ve been building.

Read James’s full feature on VoyagePhoenix

If you’re into original indie blues music and want to follow our journey:

• Join our email list on our website. This will keep you in the loop regarding our releases!

• if you’re new here, subscribe on YouTube

• And if we’ve performed live for you, we’d love it if you left us a Google review — your support means the world.

Thanks for being here,

– Written by Emma

Vocalist | Songwriter | Ferret wrangler

---

About the Author of this Post

Emma – vocalist, lyricist, and co-creator of Emma & James Music. Classically trained, emotionally grounded.

Emma is the vocalist and lyricist behind Emma & James Music.

Classically trained 20+ years in piano and dance, she blends structure and soul to create lyrics that hit home. Emma thoroughly enjoying the realm of vocal work for 4 years, courtesy of James.

When she’s not writing songs, Emma works as both an online holistic personal trainer through Emma Mattison Fitness, as well as a mentor for other trainers and health coaches in the online space, through this husband and wife team's Academy of Superior Online Coaching (ASOC).

Outside of work and music? She’s probably working out, brainstorming, or carrying around her precious ferret, Bruce.