The Magic of LIfe with FiL Straughan & James Mapes

Fil Straughan has been singing and writing music for many years. His distinctive blend of the energy of Marvin Gaye and the tone of Luther Vandross can be heard on the many recordings to his credit. It is sound rooted in the classics with the modernity and personality of Fil-a personality that can be heard in the inspiration, experience and passion within each and every song.

Fil released his first UK album in 2008 to fantastic acclaim. Due to great demand, he is shuttled from one recording studio to another, either writing with or for other artists or laying down vocals for them.

In the past Fil has worked with Ray Lewis’ Drifters, Hot Chocolate and many others. It is a testament to his versatility and skill that such a variety of producers, DJs and musicians have requested his smooth voice and energetic presence on collaborative ventures. 

James Mapes has acted in numerous plays, films and TV shows. He is also a multi-talented performer who wrote and hosted the television reality show, Through the Portal. He has presented his award-winning one-man hypnosis show Journey into the Imagination on Broadway and around the world. James is also the best-selling author of “Quantum Leap Thinking: An Owner’s Guide to the Mind”.

In the 1970's James became interested in the power of the subconscious mind. He researched psychology, philosophy, neurology, hypnotherapy and Neuro-Linguistic Programming.  His expertise quickly earned him recognition as a clinical hypnotist.

James Mapes personal goal of living an exceptional life is reflected in both his business activities as well as his recreational pursuits, which range from scuba diving, ballooning, racecar driving, Kempo Karate and world travel to an avid interest in reading. In his most recent film, Mapes is featured in the long awaited sequel to the cult hit, The Wicker Man, Robin Hardy’s 2010 thriller, The Wicker Tree.