James "J.Y." Young

Born on November 14, 1949, in Chicago.

"James Young is unselfish, generous, dedicated, focused, untiring, diligent, and has the best mind of anyone in our organization." - Tommy Shaw

Despite his degree in mechanical and aerospace engineering, James Young joined Styx in 1970 just before the recording of the album "Styx I". J.Y. stands out with his hard rock look and style which please a great number of Styx fans. In fact, the other members now refer to him as the "Godfather of STYX".

In 1985, J.Y. released his first solo album "City Slicker" in collaboration with Jan Hammer. Since Styx had decided to take a break, J.Y. took this opportunity to return to his roots and offer a great rock album to his fans.

He spent a few years in Los Angeles and in 1988, he released his second solo album "Out On A Day Pass" to which John Panozzo contributed. On this album, J.Y. re-recorded the song "Young Man" from the 1973 Styx album "The Serpent Is Rising". During the same year, he also did some background vocals on Tommy’s third solo album "Ambition".

However, he missed playing live on stage and felt like going back out there. He then formed the JAMES YOUNG GROUP with Michael Baran on guitars, Lou DePasqua on keyboards, Hank Horton on bass and Ken Harch on drums. With them, he went back on stage much to his fans’ delight.

In April 1995, "Raised By Wolves" became the first album by the JAMES YOUNG GROUP. Again, J.Y. offered a harder rock album but included a surprising ballad "Heaven In Your Heart" which should please not only the Styx fans but the rock music fans in general. You can order his 3 solo albums through Waterdog Music.

Photo by Brigitte Boulais

Visit a page dedicated to JY by his biggest fan, Gina.
Visit the unofficial James "JY" Young web site done by Kathie.

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