Trans-Siberian Orchestra singer, Cranberry native James Lewis dies of cancer
Among the dozen or so touring members of the progressive rock band Trans-Siberian Orchestra, vocalist James Lewis was instantly recognizable to the group’s fans as the one who provided the larger-than-life vocals for the band from 2004 to 2012.
This Monday, May 22, Lewis lost his battle with cancer at the age of 63. When the news first broke, tributes poured out from friends and former bandmates alike.
Jeff Scott Soto, who has toured with TSO as a vocalist since 2008, wrote on Facebook, “So sad to hear this news, this man was the real deal, a true gentleman and wonderful singer! … RIP Mr. Lewis, you'll be extraordinarily missed!!”
Music journalist Dan Roth was the one who broke the news of Lewis’ passing.
“Today we lost one of the best vocalists and human beings I have ever known,” Roth said. “When he lived in New York, he and I would hang out often, laughing and just having a blast. Whether he'd be texting me from backstage while the TSO show was going on; or sending my daughter an unexpected, amazing birthday present; or sharing files and stories from his older bands; or comparing notes and sharing advice on our back issues, he was always such an authentic, nice guy.”
Lewis was raised in Cranberry Township and graduated from Seneca Valley High School before leaving for New York City to further his music career.
Before he reached the lofty heights of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Lewis got his start in the music business doing commercial jingles for G.I. Joe, Campbell’s Soup and Chevy Trucks, among others, while also performing in the bands, ROY-G-BIV, the Kentucky Headhunters and BlueHouse.
In 2004, Lewis received his big break when he successfully auditioned for a spot in the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, joining their East Coast touring set. He went on to perform vocals on two TSO studio albums, 2004’s “The Lost Christmas Eve” and 2009’s “Night Castle.”
Unfortunately, his health issues forced him to leave the TSO in 2012. He spent his final years living in The Yards apartment building in Pittsburgh. According to a statement from the complex, Lewis’ apartment was “adorned with gold and platinum records from his time in TSO.”
In the days before his passing, his former bandmates visited Lewis one last time as he lay on his deathbed at Jefferson Hospital.
Memorial services will be held at Our Lady of Fatima church in Hopewell at 10 a.m. June 2.
