James Strecker has published both poetry and song lyrics for over four decades. His writing and criticism have received the admiration of major artistic figures - including Oscar Peterson, Karen Kain, Sonny Rollins, Martha Henry, and B. B. King - for their deep insight, ‘eloquence,’ and musicality. His words have been set to music and recorded by jazz, popular and classical composers.

Widely published in literary journals, James Strecker is the author or editor of thirty books, including thirteen of poetry. His range includes books on jazz, blues, and ballet, and also Canadian crafts, incest, animal rights, bullying, and prison life. Strecker has also been a journalist and columnist, college professor for thirty years, publisher, human development consultant, workshop presenter, and Poet-in-Residence on CBC national radio.