James "Deacon" Anderson, born on January 4, 1925, was a notable American singer, songwriter, and steel guitarist. Raised in a musically rich environment in Port Arthur, Texas, Anderson was influenced by his father, James Anderson, Sr., a hillbilly piano player who collaborated with Moon Mullican. Deacon Anderson gained recognition for his work in the country swing genre and was known for his skill on the steel guitar.

During World War II, while serving as a sergeant in the Army, Anderson co-wrote the hit song "Ragg-Mopp" with Johnnie Lee Wills. The song was first recorded by Johnny Lee Wills and his Boys in December 1949 and became widely popular, covered by over thirty-five artists, including the Ames Brothers and The Treniers. It also found its place in popular culture through performances in animation and television, including a skit on Johnny Carson's "Tonight Show."

Anderson's career included an appearance on the Johnny Cash Show, and he was brought to Atlantic Records by producer Huey Meaux. He later released "Mama Mama" on Atlantic Record's Cotillion label and owned a recording studio in Port Neches, Texas. Throughout his career, Anderson collaborated with musicians such as Cotton Thompson, J.L. Jenkins, Darrell Jones, Richard Prine, Mutt Collins, Mancel Tierney, and the Johnnie Lee Wills Band.

Deacon Anderson passed away on April 30, 2011, in Montgomery, Texas, leaving behind a legacy in the country swing music scene.