History:

Will And James Ragar are a rock duo from Louisiana (raised in New Orleans) that were primarily active in the late 1970’s and 1980’s. The duo consisted of guitar virtuoso James and his brother Will on a variety of instruments, including guitar, bass guitar, and keyboards. The duo played in clubs and lounges across the south. 

James had (at some point) been performing some shows solo prior to the duo gigging and the eventual recording of their only album “Will And James Ragar” (also known as “One”). The duo was performing in Midland, Texas when they were approached by studio owner Nick Carlton who offered use of his studio. Their sessions in 1980 resulted in the aforementioned album which was pressed on Carlton’s No Mountain Records. A fusion of soft rock, folk rock, jazz, and some funky flair, the resulting album has become legendary and is one of the most desired private presses of all time. 

Will and James played all of the instruments on the album except for drums and flute, which were played by session musician Gary Roberts. A full lineup is credited below. The album featured all original material except two outside contributions: lyrics on “As The Day Grows Tired” (Sara Van Valkenburg) and the instrumental “Melting Pot” (by Fred Nacol). 

A single, “Forever” / “Bayou Paradise”, which was recorded and pressed by Nick Carlton once again, was released in 1981. It features a more commercial and poppier sound compared to their album. After many years musically dormant, James Ragar licensed the duo’s album to several labels across the globe for reissues. Their lone album was given a worldwide release on German based bbe this year. It features great artwork, liner notes, a great remaster, and bonus tracks.

Album Lineup (partially uncredited):

James Ragar - Vocals, Lead Acoustic Guitars, Rhythm Acoustic Guitars, Pearwood Soprano Recorder (4, 5, 9, 11), Congas (11?)

Will Ragar - Vocals, Rhythm Acoustic Guitar, Bass Guitar, Electric Piano (3, 5, 9), Synthesizer (4?, 5, 10)

Gary Roberts - Drums, Percussion, Flute (10), Congas (11?)