James Mercer has lived all over the world throughout his life. The acclaimed musician was born in Hawaii, graduated high school in England, lived in New Mexico for several years and now hails from Oregon.

Despite never residing in Montana, the frontman and creative genious of the Grammy-nominated band The Shins and co-creator of the new collaboration project Broken Bells has undeniable roots and connections to Sidney. Mercer will have two appearances on late night television this week promoting his new album.

James’ father, Jim, was a 1960 graduate of Sidney High School. He now lives in New Mexico. James’ love of music can be linked to his father’s childhood in Sidney. “Music was a huge part of our lives growing up,” Jim said of himself and his six brothers and sisters. His mother, Mary, Sidney, played a vital role by instilling music into her children.

“Both sides of my family were musical,” Mary, who plays the violin and piano by ear, said. “I always wanted to have music to be a part of my children’s life. All seven of them were talented.”

Jim’s love of music wore off on his son. “You never know what kind of influence you have on your children,” he said. “It’s very cool.”

As a child, James exhibited a talent for poetry and storytelling, his grandma recalled.

“I remember when he was about 10 or so and he told me some kind of a story and I just couldn’t believe it,” Mary said. “He was imaginative and poetic at a young age.”

Those attributes haven’t left James. “Sometimes, I think of him as more of a poet than a musician,” Jim said.

James’ witty and affecting lyrics have received rave reviews since The Shins hit it big with their gold albums “Oh Inverted World,” “Chutes Too Narrow,” and its latest, “Wincing the Night Away,” from 2007 that hit number two on the billboard chart.

After three successful albums with The Shins, Mercer is currently pursuing a different musical direction with his new project Broken Bells with famed producer and musician Danger Mouse (Brian Burton).

“He’s still dedicated to continuing to write and produce music for The Shins,” Jim said. “But when his deal with Sub Pop Records was up, Brian asked him if he would be interested in doing an album, and he jumped at the opportunity.”

Broken Bells will be a mix of Mercer’s deep lyrics and indy rock roots and Burton’s definitive hip-hop sound.

“I think it’s going to be a great success for both of them. They are going to be able to reach fans together that they wouldn’t individually,” Jim said.

The tandem’s first album titled simply, “Broken Bells,” will hit stores March 9. While it hasn’t been released yet, it received four stars in a review by Rolling Stone magazine. “That’s pretty rare,” Jim said. “It’s early, but the reception has been strong.”

Even with all of his success, the artist has remained modest. “He’s so humble,” Mary said. “James is a beautiful family man. He loves his wife and two children so much. You would just love to meet him.”

James’ father respects his son’s dedication and work habits. “I don’t know if people realize how much work and discipline it takes to be a musician,” Jim said. “He is so serious about his music. We are just so proud of him.”

With their upcoming appearances on the “Late Show with David Letterman” Tuesday, which begins at 9:35 p.m., on CBS and “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” that will air at 10:35 p.m., Thursday on NBC, Broken Bells is hoping to reach as many potential listeners as possible.

In Sidney, at least one viewer will be tuned in to the broadcasts. “Oh heaven’s yes,” Mary said when asked if she will be watching her grandson’s performances. “It’s just so much fun to see him on television.”