Dropping his debut music video today, Kris James has been in the music biz for a long time. First starting out at 19, his musical journey has had many twists and turns – including a 50s-influenced boy band (we’re intrigued too). But now he’s finally stepping out on his own with his first solo material for years, and it’s about time too.
Releasing “Eyes Open”, James is showing that he’s not afraid to tackle difficult issues. Packaged in an undeniable bop, it’s the perfect first step towards getting into the spotlight where he belongs.
We sat down with him to chat all about the debut song and what we can expect next.
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Hi Kris – how are you?
I’m good, thanks. I’m currently on my radio tour up and down the country, so it’s actually quite nice to sit down for five minutes!
You’re about to drop the video for “Eyes Open” – how are you feeling?
I’m super excited to share the video. Last week, I had my launch party in London and this was the first time I’ve performed as a solo artist in years. After so many months of preparation, I’m just so excited it’s finally here.
Can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind the song?
It was inspired by an abusive relationship. We’ve all had a relationship where someone has been a bit nasty, but the song is about when you realise that they’re not good for you. Now you’ve seen their true colours, you’re much better off without them.
What do you want people to take away from the video?
There have been so many stories about men taking their own lives because of abuse by their loved ones, and I want to raise awareness for this.
Obviously this is your first song and video… How long have you been working on music for?
When I was 19, I met with the music management company in Liverpool who set up Atomic Kitten and Blue many years ago. Then I was signed to a 50s-influenced boy band – I was in that band for 2 and a half years, and even supported Annie Lennox. Unfortunately, that collapsed and so I went back to Liverpool to continue singing and writing my own music. The next thing I know, my friend is calling me from a bar and he was sat next to the CEO of the record label that I’m now signed to. My friend must have showed him my music and then the CEO checked me out online. They told me they didn’t have any projects that I’d currently fit in to, but what they did offer me was a studio in Kings Cross to record and some of the best music writers in the world. And that is how I was part of my last band that I was with for almost 5 years.
Who would you say are your main inspirations for music?
Ryan Tedder from One Republic and Chris Martin from Coldplay.
What else have you got in store for us this year?
I am following up “Eyes Open” with a second single in the first part of 2019, and I will be launching my debut album. The songs from my debut album have been partially written over the past 7 years with one of my closest friends, Stewart. After the band split, I quickly completed the record and it’s coming up to a decade of songwriting. The album will feature and array of classic songwriting about the highs and lows of loving life.