James Reed is a native Oklahoman, born in 1949 near his hometown of Marietta. He is the second oldest of five children which includes two sisters and two brothers. He graduated from Marietta High School and attended the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond, Oklahoma, where he majored in Art.

James sings lead and is the Advertising Manager for The Gentry. He designs and produces all the graphic layout for all group projects.

He is single and currently resides in Oklahoma City, where he works as a floral and display designer. His special interests include music, antiques and classic cinema. Among his hobbies are reading, cooking and crafts.