Welcome to the crowdfunding campaign for James Hazley's highly anticipated album, "From the Ashes." This extraordinary project not only aims to bring to light a collection of hidden musical gems but also serves as a celebration of resilience, the power of friendship, and the unique spirit of Argentina. By joining us in this campaign, you will be making a meaningful impact, both artistically and personally.

Cover desing by Jesús Dupuax @jesus_dupuax

Goals of the campaign.

1. Album Production and Support: Our primary goal is to raise funds to cover the expenses of recording, producing, video clip production, and releasing "From the Ashes." Your generous contributions will not only enable the creation of this concept album but also provide essential support to James Hazley, who is currently facing financial and health struggles, liver damage and complications from Hepatitis C, while caring for his mother, who battles Parkinson's disease.
2. Collaboration with Renowned Artists and Friends: "From the Ashes" brings together a remarkable lineup of musicians, and friends, including Gaspar Benegas (Indio Solari), Dizzy Espeche (Fito Páez), Juan Moss + Sawtelle (Pasión Redonda, only tribute band of Patricio Rey y sus Redonditos de Ricota from the USA) Alika and more. Their involvement adds depth and richness to the album, reflecting the powerful friendships that have supported James through his journey of recovery and resilience.
3. Concept Album: "From the Ashes" is a deeply personal and poignant concept album that takes listeners on a transformative musical journey. It explores themes of addiction, struggle, and redemption, drawing from James Hazley's own experiences. Each track intertwines with the others, weaving a narrative that resonates with listeners on a profound level. The album also pays homage to Argentina, capturing the essence of its vibrant culture, rich history, and enduring bonds of friendship that have shaped James's life and artistic journey.

"As a heartfelt tribute, the concept album 'From the Ashes' is dedicated to the memory of Shetay Lebón, a talented transgender Argentinian - American musician and daughter of renowned Argentinian artist David Lebón. Shetay's artistic spirit and courageous journey left an indelible mark on those who knew her. She was introduced to James Hazley through A&R, Chapete from Toys of the Masses, the label owned by David Hakopyan (known for his work with Soil/SOAD and the Apex Theory). The collaboration between James and Shetay began with a song called 'Nothing at All,' which James was producing with her before her untimely passing. The song will be produced in James' debut album, featuring Gaspar Benegas, a very close friend of Shetay who introduced her to the label."

Picture by Kevin RC Wilson @kevinwilsonnyc

Bio of James Hazley

James Hazley is a multifaceted artist and musician whose journey is marked by resilience, transformation, and the unwavering support of his friends. With a musical career spanning over two decades, James has emerged from the shadows to share his long-hidden treasure trove of songs in the highly anticipated album, "From the Ashes."

Born into a show business family, James Hazley's early exposure to the world of entertainment laid the foundation for his own artistic pursuits. His mother, Thelma Jones, a prominent 70s soul singer, and his father, Dickey Hazley, her manager and a TK Records A&R, provided him with a rich musical heritage. James's talent first shone at the young age of five when he made a captivating appearance on the syndicated children's program,"Romper Room." With a natural inclination for performance, James continued to develop his skills, embracing various roles and instruments along the way. Later making waves in the indie rock and post-grunge scene with his college power pop band, Cockeyed Ghost.

One of the most significant influences in James's life is his childhood friend, John Dolmayan (System of a Down). Throughout their journey together, John played a pivotal role in supporting James during his moments of struggle and recovery. When James battled with addiction, John stood by his side, providing much-needed support for rehabilitation. Their unbreakable bond and shared passion for music led them to create the band These Grey Men, where James Hazley served as the co-producer and bass player. Together, they collaborated with renowned artists such as Tom Morello and Serj Tankian, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

James Hazley's path, however, has not been without its trials. As a survivor of ritual cult sexual abuse during his childhood, he faced the enduring effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The trauma took a toll on his well-being, leading him down a dangerous path of addiction. James battled a near-fatal heroin addiction that resulted in twelve years of homelessness and multiple hospitalizations. Yet, through sheer determination and the support of his friends, James conquered his addiction and embarked on a path of recovery and healing.

The turning point came when James Hazley's talent caught the attention of the entertainment industry. He landed a role as Eric Andre's larger-than-life sidekick, Blannibal, on the renowned Eric Andre Show. This opportunity not only showcased his comedic presence but also opened doors to further collaborations, including his role as the co-producer and bass player in These Grey Men. Working alongside notable artists such as Tom Morello and Serj Tankian, James contributed to their highly regarded album, demonstrating his range and versatility as a musician.

Hazley is also the co-executive producer for the Anti-War Concept album United Themes by Mark Slater and Gabriel Lococo about the 1982 Falklands War (Spanish: Guerra de las Malvinas).[*] Charity album, donating its proceeds to the families that lost their homes in the Patagonia duo to the fires that occurred in May of 2021 through the artist organization Artistas por la Patagonia, supported by 501c3 Non-Profit for the Arts, Makeartnotwar.org.[*][*] Released on the record label, Make Noise Not War Records (Los Angeles).

Now, with "From the Ashes," James Hazley is ready to share his own artistic vision and his personal journey of triumph and resilience. This concept album, a culmination of over 20 years of creativity and growth, explores themes of addiction, struggle, and redemption while celebrating the power of friendship and the spirit of Argentina. Each track weaves a narrative that reflects James's own experiences, delivering a powerful and relatable musical experience to listeners.

By supporting this crowdfunding campaign, you not only become a part of James Hazley's extraordinary musical odyssey but also extend a helping hand to him and his mother during these challenging times. Your contribution helps bring "From the Ashes" to life and provides essential support for James in his caregiving role for his mother,  Thelma Jones,  who battles Parkinson's disease. It is important to note that any funds exceeding the campaign's goal will be directly allocated to James and his mother, providing them with additional support and resources. Together, we can uplift James Hazley's career, offer hope to those facing adversity, and celebrate the profound impact of friendship and resilience.

Join us in celebrating resilience, friendship, the indomitable spirit of Argentina, and the transcendent power of music. Together, we can uplift James Hazley's artistic journey and make "From the Ashes" a resounding success.

If you have any suggestions, or questions, or would like to make additional or special donations such as valuable artworks for our auction section, collectible pieces, paintings, or any other creative contribution, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We'd be thrilled to consider your offerings for our campaign. Feel free to contact us at [email protected]. Your support means the world to us, and we're excited to collaborate with you in any meaningful way!

MAKE ART NOT WAR is a nonprofit corporation organized and operated exclusively for charitable purposes, specifically to support original content from artists and creators from around the world in art, music, cinema and television. Focusing on cultural interest projects and freedom of speech initiatives. Promoting and developing artistic projects. Opening the possibility in forming new professionals, taught by professionals and / or talented artist from around the world. Create new spaces of artist and / or individual self—expression (such as in festivals, screenings, filmmaking, music, happenings, expositions and more. Also interventions and participation with other similar activities to support and promote). Additionally, opening job opportunities for any type of individuals. Open an environment of non-exclusivity. Generating a cultural exchange through international artistic co-productions or collaborations.

MAKE ART NOT WAR is a registered 501(c)(3) Non-profit Organization with the state of California. Created in Buenos Aires. Based in California.

​EIN: 81-3471469
Corporation No. 3929827 Status: Active
MAKE ART NOT WAR was incorporated on 7/25/2016.