James is a singer-songwriter who performs more than 200 shows a year throughout the world and has a duet out at the moment with Australian performer Natalie Howard, who is also playing at the concert.

He has also had five number one hits as a songwriter and has written for the likes of Crystal Gayle, Charlie Daniels, Linda Davis and Conway Titty.

Recently he has written for pop sensation Jessica Simpson and teen heart-throb Aaron Carter.

James said he looks forward to meeting the people of Lightning Ridge.

"This will be my first time touring Australia. I have done shows here with Keith Urban and Natalie Howard and am a big fan of the great music that comes out of Australia," he said.

He said that while he had no expectations of Lightning Ridge he had heard great things about the beauty of the country.

"I am originally from Kentucky and now live in Nashville, Tennessee. I grew up on a tobacco and cattle farm so I am all about the country.

"I travel so much that I try to enjoy the little things about all the places I visit and I am sure Lightning Ridge will have memories in store for me," he said.

James said it was important to visit the grass roots supporters of country music.

"I always say, 'have gig, will travel', grass roots is what it is all about for me, I am an independent artist here in the States and I enjoy meeting people one on one."

"I play many festivals and small venues here in America. It is always great to have an audience so close to you. Since I travel with just my guitar, it is easy for me to visit a lot of places," he said.

James said that audiences can expect a great show when they come to see him.

"I love performing and have been doing it professionally since I was 10 years old. I will be doing all original music from my CDs and also hits I have written for other artists," he said.

He is also playing a show in Brisbane on March 26 but Lightning Ridge is his only other Australian appearance.

"My friend Natalie Howard was booked there (Lightning Ridge) for the show and she let the festival people know that I was coming over and everything has fallen into place nicely for me to perform as well," he said.

The concert kicks of on March 19 and 20 with tickets available from Opal FM.