Known the world over (well, practically) as the “Ambassador of the Blues,” Springfield is proud to claim James Armstrong as a resident. With a jazz guitarist for a father and a blues singer for a mother, James was practically born to play music and started his first band in seventh grade. He took off with a blast, playing as a full-time guitarist in his 20s, soon signing to Oakland’s famed HighTone Records. Tragedy struck when he was severely injured during a home invasion and lost the use of his left hand and arm. Through sheer determination and strong will, he worked his way back, releasing a new album within two years of the accident. Now, decades later, Mr. Ambassador tours constantly with a steady band and just released his latest recording of many, titled Blues Been Good to Me, in October. Along with his righteous sense of blues and groove, James is a brilliant and important songwriter, bringing a thoughtful, playful and integral sensitivity to the blues canon. Right on, James, write on.