James MacKrell (1937-) was born in Little Rock, Arkansas and grew up in southern Louisiana. His career began in Radio like his father before him, but evolved into music publishing with the late Henry Mancini who eventually took him to Los Angles, California. His career eventually expanded to encompass every aspect of the show business industry, from local and national commercials to hosting charity specials and even guest starring in popular television series and feature films. His first book, "Down from the Mountain," celebrates his passion for the spiritual connection between animals and people, as well as his admiration for the American rural way of life.