Listen to WFAE AMPLIFIER interview

“Sharkey’s compositions are much like the voice with which he sings them: gentle, often introspective, a little melancholy, and attuned to the quieter, slower-paced rhythms of small-town life. He extols the virtues of seeking comfort and fellowship, away from the madding crowd and other sources of tension”

Sean Smith, Boston Irish Reporter, "Misty Morning Rain" review, Dec 2017

Jim Sharkey, Folk Musician, "Misty Morning Rain" Album

“The main theme to this collection is friendships .... Easy to listen to and telling diverse tales, Misty Morning Rain offers songs ranging on topics such as friendships and immigrants to politics. The playing is lovely and seemingly a bit richer with the instrumentation this go round. This is an easy listen, with lovely arrangements and engrossing lyrics. We recommend you acquaint yourself with Jim and his music.

Steve Behrens, The Celtic Music Journal, "Misty Morning Rain " review,June 2017

“Sharkey’s songwriting is straightforward and plain-spoken, with an obvious affection for home and hearth, but doesn’t come across as mawkish or cloying. Hard-edged polemics and rhetoric just aren’t his style, and this is no small consideration in a time of very loud voices ... Sharkey’s songs celebrate the unhurried life and the merits of contemplation and remembrance, with tone and tempo to match. ”

Sean Smith, Boston Irish Reporter, "A Lovely Day" review, October 2020

Jim Sharkey is not only a fine musician and a gifted songwriter - he brings his Irish wit and humor along. In between his haunting melodies, he keeps his audience spellbound with stories and jokes. Jim infuses all of his performances with the beauty and nostalgia of Ireland, but it’s his unique blend of Irish folk, Americana and personal songwriting that really make him shine. His choice of music is well thought out and completely engaging, as there is always something for every listener. Do yourself and your friends a favor and invite Jim Sharkey to perform. I promise you’ll invite him again and again. Lisal Kayati Roberts

Jim played during our cocktail hour and also performed our first dances at our September 2017 wedding. We first heard Jim play in Roanoke, VA and instantly fell in love with his voice and performance style!He took the time to learn our two first dance songs (A Case of You by Joni Mitchell and Sweet Baby James by James Taylor for the dance with my dad), and sent us recordings before the wedding so we knew what to expect. His performances really made our wedding feel personal and intimate, and we absolutely loved having Jim be a part of it - Melissa Powell, 2017

Jim was a great fit for our venue, providing great music and being able to also engage the audience, all in a very laid-back and casual atmosphere. He was also very easy to work with - Sue Ishak, 2017

Never disappoints . A true story teller with a wonderful collection of songs . Quite a warm personable soul he is as well - Barry Shirley, Music Booker, Columbia, SC, 2017

Jim’s music is captivating and reflective, drawn from a deep reserve of life experience. It is clear in the way he embodies the words of the folk songs he sings, bringing timeless lyrics to life in a relevant way. He is beyond professional and a pleasure to work with. A fantastic voice with guitar playing to match. If you enjoy Folk and Americana music and have the opportunity to hear him, don’t miss it! - Christopher V. Gastonia, NC.

I have seen Jim multiple times and am always wowed by his performance. He has an amazing Irish tenor voice and is a fantastic musician and songwriter. His genuinely warm personality becomes immediately evident when he begins his performance. I would see Jim anytime he is near - Nina B. Virginia 2019

In hiring entertainment our goal was to enhance the atmosphere and mood of our event. Jim's incredible talent surpassed our greatest expectations leaving us with a full range of emotion from joyful tears to laughter. Jim brings the highest quality and passion to his music, his talent is truly a gift. - Rita G., Tennessee 2019

Jim was truly the perfect addition to our special wedding day. A talented singer / guitarist and an absolutely wonderful individual, Jim is truly outstanding. We cannot recommend Jim highly enough! - Kat Moraros, 2018

Jim Sharkey is an absolutely wonderful guitarist and singer. His music is so sweet, calm, and comforting and reminds us of our travels through Ireland. He performed on our wedding day as guests were arriving and for the processional as the bridal party then I walked down the aisle. It was such a sweet addition to our day that people really enjoyed and were asking about after. Jim is the most kind man and was so very helpful throughout the planning process. I could not recommend him highly enough. You will not regret booking him for any event you have - Heidi Furman, Columbia, South Carolina 2019.