Jimi Polo

James Perri A.K.A. Jimi Polo  is a Singer, Musician, Songwriter, Composer, Producer, Actor and DJ.

James started his career in Chicago as one of the pioneers of Chicago house scene. His breakout involvement in the song “Shake Your Body” by Jeanette Thomas became a cult classic in Chicago and New York.

As the house movement was becoming mainstream in the UK, James moved to London, where his major classics were published and he became major influential artist on the European dance scene.

He made the covers of two popular magazines in the UK - DJ Mag and Blues & Soul.

Many producers like Fatboy Slim, DJ Sasha, and Blur, have sampled his single “Better Days”. James’ other classic “Express Yourself”, signed by Paul Oakenfold’s Perfecto Records label, is still played by many DJs and was included on Ministry of Sounds 20^th anniversary box set in 2011.

James was recognized by Nellie Hooper & Jazzie B, leaders of British R&B band Soul II Soul, with whom he was signed to for two years and had worldwide success – with the group winning a Grammy in 1990. 

James was also a mentor to Adamski who wrote Seal’s first song “Killer”, which was also covered by George Michael.

Another song composed by James was Grace’s  “If I Could Fly” -  a single that charted at no.29 on the UK pop charts.

After living in London, James moved to Paris where he collaborated with Martin Solveig on “Come To Me” and with Guyman of Daft Punk on “If You Give Me The Love I Want” as well as with David Guetta on his album “Blaster”.

James also lived in Italy for five years performing in iconic clubs. Recently he worked on a remix of his classic “Shake Your Body” with Kenny Dope (Masters at Work). He then moved to Croatia, where he teamed up with Boris Durdevic (AKA) Eric Destler from Colonia to produce the song “Magic”. Whilst there James worked on blues legend Norman Beaker’s album.

As a DJ and singer James is always welcomed in different clubs through Europe giving the audience unique experienced sound, full of rhythm and good vibrations.

The song “Better Days” has been remixed by many DJs and has had the radio support of Pete Tong and Anne Mac from the BBC.

James has also worked on an opera and film score with Justin Berkmann, founder of Ministry of sound, and Simon Duffy entitled ‘The Mountain Shadow’.

He would go onto score his second film entitled ‘14 Barriers’ (‘14 prepreka’) a Croatian Film directed by Srecko Karic.

In 2023, Jimi acted in and scored the films ‘Hunting Tesla’ and ‘Something Larger Than Me’, as well as acting in ‘Naples to New York’ - Directed by Oscar winner Gabriele Salvatores.