Jim achieved regional acclaim in the Dallas area during the late 90s with the 'Jim Squires Band'. The band was propelled by a large, college following which allowed it to gig heavily throughout the state, support national acts when they toured through the region, and frequently headline sold-out shows at the most popular clubs. It was with this group, which included talented jazz musicians from the renowned University of North Texas music program, that Jim honed his live skills. After recording and releasing 3 EPs and receiving a number of awards, the band dissolved in 2000 when Jim re-located to San Francisco.
Jim turned his focus to writing at that time and has amassed a large library of songs. His lyrics are imagery based but deal with universal themes relationships, perception, experience. He is influenced by a wide variety of classic artists such as Nick Drake, Bob Dylan, and The Beatles, along with newer artists like Beck, Wilco, and Elliott Smith.