Jim Altamore is a versatile singer of Popular Standards from what is known today as the Great American Songbook.
Born in Brooklyn, Jim grew up during a time when Rock and Roll was changing the music world. However, his family always appreciated the true American music of Jazz and Swing and kept him in touch with the great singers like Sinatra, Ella and Bennett, as well as the swinging music of Count Basie. Jim’s indoctrination in the world of music started on the right path…and it never changed!
Jim took a circuitous route to become a singer. Although he had a love of music, he never sang in public while he was growing up. He actually did not know that his voice was not ordinary. So, after graduating from college, Jim entered the 9 to 5 world of business…..but kept close to the music scene, working for some record labels, notably, Atlantic Records.
Fortunately, Jim met some jazz musicians who encouraged him to pursue his dream of becoming a professional singer. He worked hard at his craft and eventually let the public know that he was ready to sing for them. And he has been doing it ever since, fronting big bands and jazz combos.
Jim has performed world-wide, highlighted by a series of concerts in France in tribute to Sinatra, and has worked with artists such as Diana Ross and Spyro Gyra. He was the voice of Sinatra on Broadway in “A Bronx Tale” in which he sang Sinatra’s version of “Fly Me to the Moon”.
On his first album, “License to Swing”, Jim, backed by a sextet, interpreted some great American Standards. On his album, “Jim Altamore celebrates Sinatra with the Côte Ouest Orchestra Live in France”, Jim and a 40 piece orchestra joyously celebrate Sinatra and his contribution to the world of music. On album 3 “Swingin’ After Dark”, Jim revisits the Great American Songbook with a surprise or two and jazzy arrangements.