James Pants is an American multi-instrumental recording artist. Although his music defies simple categorization, he is promoted as a purveyor of the "fresh beat," an early-1980s sound with influences from 1980s soul, electro boogie, early rap, new wave, and post-punk disco.

He was discovered by DJ and Stones Throw Records head Peanut Butter Wolf, whom he approached while still in high school. When PBW did a gig in his hometown of Austin, Texas, Pants left his prom, with his date in tow, to meet him at the show. From there, he interned at Stones Throw offices. After releasing several singles and compilations with Stones Throw, he released his debut album, Welcome, in 2008. His second LP, Seven Seals, was released in July 2009 and his third, self-titled LP was released on May 3, 2011.