The "Rise" album can be purchased via Sandra's official website at www.sandrajames.com or to download the album on itunes, click the following icon.
The Sandra James Story
In late April of 2004, I received a call at our office about recording possibilities. Soon after began the incredible journey of Sandra James, who, at 42 years old, was literally fighting for her life. Sandra had been diagnosed with abdominal cancer two years earlier, and the doctors now believed that she had only two weeks left to live. With death at her door, Sandra could no longer deny her burning dream to record an album of original music.
Our first day of work came shortly thereafter. Although I could easily see that Sandra was very sick, once she picked up the guitar, she simply could not stop smiling and strumming. She rapidly laid down two solid takes of her first song without any metronome. Sandra played with such confidence and precision that I was very much surprised to see the quality of her performance knowing her condition. Even though this was just the beginning, it was clear to me that Sandra was determined to make a record no matter what the medical professionals or anyone else said.
After a few takes of Sandra playing the song on her guitar came the real moment of truth, it was time for her to sing. Because Sandra's diaphragm had been severely damaged in surgery, it was difficult for her to push her vocal cords. She couldnt drink anything and instead chewed ice cubes to keep her mouth moist. Her only nutrition came from an intravenous tube. Nevertheless, Sandra walked up to the microphone, and in her sweet voice said, Im ready. I was overwhelmed to hear what came across. Much to my shock, she sounded great.
By the end of the first day Sandra had performed so well that we had achieved an excellent recording of the first song. I left the house that first day knowing that something amazing was going on and that I was a small part of something much bigger, the dreams, passion, heart, and soul of Sandra James. When I first met Sandra, I had no idea what to expect. She didnt even know if she could do this. Not only was the performance outstanding, but the quality of her songwriting was even more impressive.
Oblivious to the pain in her b ody, for three and a half months Sandra greeted me each day with a smile. The doctors two weeks had come and gone, yet Sandra was very much alive. Creative minds often exaggerate the power of the artistic process, but even Sandra's doctor said, This is beyond medicine. With the cancer now completely overtaking her b ody, Sandra had transformed into a musical workhorse. She was no longer fighting to stay alive, she was now fighting to leave something behind, determined to leave her music so that it might inspire others.
On July 31st, as I sat by Sandra's side, we listened to the recordings for the first time. I watched her as the music played, and I no longer saw a dying woman. I saw someone in heaven. Her smile, her tears, and the realization of the impossible were all present in that special moment. When the music stopped, Sandra looked at me and said, Ian, you have helped me realize my lifes dream, and I will always be grateful for that. You are my angel. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I want you to finish these records for me. I really feel that I can go now. As I left Sandra's room that afternoon, I knew it would probably be the last time I'd see her.
Two days later, on August 3rd, 2004, Sandra James left us.
Before her passing, Sandra founded The Sandra James Music Foundation, whose purpose is to preserve and promote her music and message in the hopes that it will inspire generations to come. As Sandra herself stated, There can be no price or value placed on an inspirational theme or message conveyed to humanity through an uplifting song or other message of higher good.
The musicians who worked on this album played with their hearts and souls. These songs carry a magic that would not have been present without Sandra on our minds. In my last conversation with Sandra, she told me that she knew it wasnt going to be easy to finish these records and that she wanted me to have fun. I did just that. I had the time of my life making this first record and am very grateful for Sandra's trust and great friendship. Making this record wasn't just Sandras dream, it was also mine, and ultimately it is proof of a dream that is much larger than you or me.
Ian Charbonneau, Producer.
The Sandra James Interview
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