Early years & first steps in music
Jim Plummer’s musical journey began in his school years, around 1981, when he first stepped on stage in a live band as a teenager. Over the next few years he explored various line-ups and styles, honing his guitar chops and vocal instincts. In 1986 he briefly stepped away from the music scene to embrace a life at sea as part of the Royal Navy—an interlude that only deepened his sense of purpose and passion for music.
Invitation to join The Firebirds
In 1988, Jim’s brother John invited him to join The Firebirds. He accepted, leaving maritime life behind and returning to the rhythms and melodies he loved. Over the next few seasons, Jim’s drive, talent, and dedication helped elevate the band’s ambitions and sound.
Becoming professional & early touring life
By 1991, The Firebirds had reached a turning point: the demand and momentum meant they could no longer remain a part-time project—they went fully professional. That summer they embarked on a five-month tour, averaging nearly 1,600 miles per week on the road. Through long drives, late nights, and countless live shows, Jim discovered that no matter how many gigs he’d played, the joy of performance never faded.
Musical influences, instruments & gear
Jim draws deep inspiration from the 1950s — a golden age in his eyes for singers and musicians. He especially admires Eddie Cochran, Dion, and Elvis Presley as foundational influences. Since 1991 he has relied on his beloved Gretsch “G-Brand” guitar (it appeared on the cover of the Movin’ On album), and earlier played a Gretsch “Country Gentleman” before it was tragically damaged in transit. In his Bristol studio, he also owns a Fender Telecaster, and his live rig has included a Fender Tonemaster amp with a Fender 212 cabinet. His exacting ear and tone are matched by his commitment to great gear.
Recording, tours & collaborations
Over the years Jim has not only delivered electrifying live performances across Europe and North America, but has also worked extensively in the studio writing, producing, and recording. The Firebirds have released numerous albums across rock ’n’ roll, doo-wop, harmonies, and vintage styles. They’ve supported or performed with names such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Linda Gail Lewis, Ray Campi, Charlie Gracie, and Sleepy LaBeef. In 1992 they were chosen as the only British band at the opening of Disneyland Paris. In Bristol they participated in a memorial concert marking Eddie Cochran’s death, with Jim himself performing the role of Cochran’s last local set. Their U.S. tours included historic dates tied to the Sun Records legacy and anniversaries of Elvis.
Philosophy, present work & vision
Jim continues to live and breathe music in all its forms. Offstage, he writes lyrics, arranges harmony, and oversees projects from his own studio. He thrives on musical collaboration, experimentation, and the authentic spirit of the past made fresh. For him, each performance is still a thrill—he still gets “the buzz.” Whether in a packed ballroom or an intimate club, Jim Plummer remains rooted in rock ’n’ roll tradition while always chasing the next idea, the next phrase, the next moment that connects with the audience.