James A. Bland (also known as Jimmy Bland) (October 12, 1854-May 6,1911) was an African American musician and song writer. He was one of 8 children born to a free family before the abolition of slavery in the United States. Beginning with an eight-dollar banjo purchased by his father, he was performing professionally by age 14.

Bland wrote over 700 songs, including "In The Evening By The Moonlight" and "Carry Me Back to Old Virginny", published in 1878, which was the official State Song of Virginia from 1940-1997.

Often called "The World's Greatest Minstrel Man", Bland toured the United States, as well as Europe. Beginning in 1881, he spent 20 years in London before returning to the United States.

James A. Bland died of tuberculosis in 1911.

The Lions Clubs of Virginia sponsor a music contest for school students called the "Bland Contest" in honor of James A. Bland. The Annual Bland Music Scholarships Program was established in 1948 to assist and promote cultural and educational opportunities for the musically talented youth of Virginia.

Sources

• Carry Me Back to old Virginny webpage, Lions Club
• Jimmy Bland article
• Lions Clubs of Virginia - Bland Music Scholarships Program