James Manley

James Manley is a guitarist, audio engineer, producer and film composer. By the age of two, a guitar was in his hands. He ultimately received a music degree from University of North Carolina Wilmington. His childhood included playing Beatles songs on a dulcimer, making drums out of cans and improvising on piano. Meanwhile, John Williams blockbuster soundtracks of the late '70s and early '80s sparked inspiration.

His 60's UK blues/new wave inspired group, Velvet, has three albums in their repertoire. The group started their own indie label with international distribution. The critically acclaimed release “Juggernaut” was recorded with the prolific iconic producer Mitch Easter at Fidelitorium Recordings in Kernersville, NC. Jay's electric guitar style pulls from a broad palate of flavors: stretching from pop to indie rock, country, blues, Indian classical and jazz.


With more than a dozen film scores to his credit, Jay Manley is becoming a prolific, creative force in North Carolina for short film and documentary music. His works range from magical orchestral textures and moody landscapes to fun guitar/drum grooves and intimate solo acoustic. He has produced works for The Arc of NC, Clay Aiken and AASHTO and recorded national releases in his project studio: Shalini, "Magnetic North" and The Good Graces, "Sunset Over Saxapahaw" as well as hundreds of other commercial projects.