Watch on Soap2day. James Lee Stanley has been the opening act for virtually every famous performer in music and comedy for over 50 years. Starting his career in the early 60's, James' story is woven throughout the decades. He has written more than 1,000 songs and had released 37 albums. This is not another story about the vagaries of show business. This is a story about hope, perseverance and the pursuit of the American dream. A feel good story.