Early Life and Musical Training
James Raymond Creeggan was born on February 12, 1970, in Scarborough, Ontario. He was raised in a musical family and received formal training on the double bass. He studied at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Music and developed a love for jazz and classical music, which shaped his unique playing style. He co-founded Barenaked Ladies with Ed Robertson and Steven Page in 1988 and was later joined by his brother Andy Creeggan on keyboards and percussion. When Andy left the band in the mid-1990s, Jim remained and became an even more prominent creative force.
Contributions to Barenaked Ladies
Creeggan’s virtuosic bass playing is central to the band’s sound, often elevating their arrangements with complex lines and counter-melodies. He co-writes songs and occasionally performs lead vocals. Notable contributions include “Sound of Your Voice,” “Peterborough and the Kawarthas,” and “Maybe Not.” His stylistic range has helped the band move seamlessly from folk-pop to funk to orchestral ballads. He has performed on every studio album and continues to co-write material alongside Ed Robertson and Kevin Hearn.
Solo Work and Side Projects
In 2004, Creeggan released a solo album titled “Creeggan Factor” and has performed in various jazz ensembles over the years. He is an in-demand session musician and occasionally collaborates with artists across genres, from classical to indie rock.
Personal Life
Jim Creeggan lives in Toronto with his wife and children. He remains committed to both family life and the long-running creative partnership that is Barenaked Ladies. Known for his humility and musicality, he is admired as one of Canada’s most versatile and enduring instrumentalists.
