Photos: Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (May 10, 2024) – Soul-stirring Country firebrand Dillon James is sharing a new song, “Call Me Up,” available today. Written by Dillon with Joe Clemmons and Jonathan Smith, the song is produced by Paul Sikes. Listen to “Call Me Up” here.

“‘Call Me Up’ up is a song I wrote about the ebbs and flows of relationships, they’re not always easy,” shares Dillon. “It’s a song about knowing who you are fully, and the worth you bring to that relationship even when it’s hardest. I have been excited to release this one because I feel it shows a different side of me and my music.”

Recently making his Grand Ole Opry debut (4/30), Dillon showcased his autobiographical track “Walking Man” and forthcoming release “River Black,” dedicating his performance to loved ones who couldn’t be with him, but whose presence he felt in the room.

“I feel so honored to be standing with you all here tonight. God is using me in a way in a way I never thought,” he shared from stage. Giving attendees a glimpse of his journey to redemption he added, “A few years ago, I was living in a sleeping bag. I was alone and I was sad, and I had nothing. This is a full circle moment. It’s the best day of my life. If you’ve got a dream, don’t give up on it.” 

Photo Credit (left): © Grand Ole Opry, photo by Chris Hollo
Photo Credit (right): Chris Ashlee

In addition to “Walking Man” and “Call Me Up” the California-born singer/songwriter released his shoot-it-straight anthem “My Shadow” in March. More new music is on the way for this rising talent as he opens for Nickelback on select shows this summer, and takes the stage at high-profile festivals including CMA Fest in downtown Nashville, Carolina Country Music Fest and Barefoot Country Festival. For more information, please visit DillonJames.com.

About Dillon James:
Born and raised in Bakersfield, California, Dillon James was influenced by the city’s unique blend of Rock n’ Roll and Country music from an early age, picking up a guitar for the first time at the age of 10. Dillon was first drawn to classic rock, though his tastes diversified to the likes of City And Colour, Glen Campbell, Jeff Buckley, George Strait and Bob Dylan by the time he began writing his own music as a teen. Combined with inspiration from the local sounds of Merle Haggard and Buck Owens, Dillon developed the country-rock infused vocals and powerful storytelling that would define his distinct sound. After winning several singer-songwriter competitions and a brief stint working as an actor in Los Angeles, Dillon entered a turbulent period of substance abuse and homelessness. During this painful time, he realized that if he could heal himself and achieve his lifelong dream of becoming a singer-songwriter, he could become a living testament to others as well. Dillon accomplished his goal and moved to Nashville to write and record music, including his debut track “Walking Man,” “My Shadow,” and more set to be released soon. In his own words, “human connection is the goal, music is just the vessel.”