Rising singer-songwriter Kris James is becoming increasingly difficult to be overlooked. The undeniable style of the artist has been sharpened over the past five years, and now James’ anthemic, uplifting pop approach is ready for arenas. Music has been at the forefront of James’ sound for his entire life, since being a child singing Otis Redding and Frank Sinatra to his desire to pursue a career as an artist and touring with Will Young, it flows through his veins.

We were recently blessed with the latest offering from the emerging creative. Entitled “Caught Feelings”, this is a song that feels deeply personal and emotionally potent, with James’ encompassing fans into his thoughtful resonance. Raw and powerful, the Liverpudlian songwriter offers a sound that is an exceptional representation of pop, bringing a strong lyrical craft and dazzling instrumentation to the soundscape.

We connected with James to discuss his latest offering, “Caught Feelings”, the development of his sound, supporting Will Young, and his dream collaboration.

Listen to “Caught Feelings”…

Read the full interview…

What is the story behind “Caught Feelings”?
The process behind Caught Feelings was an unfortunate turn of events in my relationship, which caused me to doubt, worry and to rethink everything! The lyrics “ the sun shines, but it rains inside” explains exactly how I felt when I wrote it – it all seems to be great on the outside, but inside I was second-guessing everything.

What was the process like behind creating ‘Caught Feelings’?
Me and my co-writers sat down and talked about how I was feeling and what I wanted to write about…the first thing that came up was what had happened in this relationship and although it was extremely emotional for me, the lyrics just flowed. Even up until I was shooting the music video only recently, it still felt so emotional for me because it’s about an unresolved love, and who knows what happens in the future. The the timing obviously wasn’t right…..but I never say never!!!

Describe your sound in one word.
Timeless.

How has your sound developed since your first album
Yes, my sound has absolutely developed and matured. On my first album, I basically made music that came from real stories but was commercially viable for radio. I also listen to a lot of peoples opinions and changed things to suit, but with this album and the past couple of singles, it’s totally me, 100% authentic me – I decided this time it’s gotta be real, not that my last album wasn’t real but I think I played it a little safe. This next record we are ripping off the band-aid!! it’s all about my authentic self with some cool pop, funk, electronic and catchy songs all about my crazy wonderful life on the highs and lows of it!

Where did your love for music come from?
Being From Liverpool, most of the music I was brought up with was The Beatles – and the fantastic Cilla!! So from a small age there was always music and a guitar around a house full of music. My uncle used to play guitar and sing when he used to look after me while my parents were at work. Also I remember the first school play I was in. I had to play a colour of the rainbow one afternoon and my teacher had me singing in the corridor. She didn’t know I could sing so she decided to make me sing all the colours of the rainbow at the school play!! I was very nervous about doing that as it was my first performance. But from then on I was hooked every year and I would play the lead singer and it just moved forward from there. As soon as I left school, I went to music school and then was shipped off to London to pursue the career I have today. I’m so thankful that I’m still in London doing what I love and hopefully what I do best!

We saw you supported Will Young and Anastacia throughout the UK and Europe, what was that experience like?
Anastasia and Will, I have to say, are just super cool people and artists. I was made to feel so welcome, which is so nice because on these big tours it’s so fast paced and everything is done to precision and perfect timing. Touring Switzerland and Italy was my favourite because I finally got to visit Italy for the first time, and I have to say it really is the best place for food!! But it was just so nice to be performing my own music on an international stage with Anastasia! What a woman, she is so nice and so kind. Will’s tour was also amazing. It was so nice to be able to tour the whole country and meet so many incredible people that I didn’t even know liked my music, which I was shocked by. I suppose it’s the only real time that you actually see people who listen to you online, it’s amazing and I absolutely love it. I think I’m going to be touring later this year, but my lips are sealed until we can finally announce it.

Who have been major inspirations to you as an artist, and why?
The Beatles for sure, I just love how every song they ever wrote was happy promoting positivity basically like a self-help book. If I find myself having a bad day, I put a Beatles track on and very soon I’m happy again crazy, how music can heal you.

The Carpenters, thanks to my mum during most of my childhood, I really became obsessed and in love with harmonies and melodies which let’s face it, they kill.

Prince is definitely one of the most inspiring artists. I love how he didn’t sit in one genre. Most of his albums were sub genres, from funk, disco, rock, R&B and many more. I’ve decided with my up-and-coming album to do exactly the same. We have a wide range of songs from pop, dance, disco and funk. It’s basically all on my new album and I’ve got the inspiration for that from Prince. Unlike him I can’t produce as I get confused with all the buttons, but I do have a good head for production and usually have quite a few points to give to the producer who is amazing. Mr Sam Williams a little shout out there!!

If you could pick one dream collaboration, who would it be with?
This is a great question and I can actually think of quite a few, but if I was gonna have one which would never happen now because he sadly passed away, it would be Prince. The reason I picked Prince is for his unbelievable songwriting and production, and I know that I would walk out of that session with one of the best songs ever!!

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out their singer/song writing career?
Believe in yourself and your music. Having confidence in your abilities and your music is crucial to overcome the challenges that you face in your career. Focus on your creativity: write or play music every day. Stay true to your own voice and write about what you know and feel. Don’t worry too much about commercial success or pleasing others. Collaborate with other musicians and look for opportunities to collaborate with other artists. Collaboration can help you learn more, improve your skills, and get exposure to new audiences. Try to build your network, attend music events, conferences and festivals. Building relationships with other people is invaluable in this industry.Stay persistent! Remember, success takes time, patience and persistence. Keep creating, stay open to learning and growth, and never give up on your passions.

What do you have you have in stall for the rest of 2023?
I’m actually super busy and super happy. I’m off to New York and Miami next month and then back to Los Angeles in July and August to shoot a couple of music videos for the next two singles, then I’ll head back to the UK to finish off my album and hopefully a tour when the album comes out. 2024 looks like I’ll be touring the whole year. In many countries. We are going to be releasing in Germany and also Japan and I think Australia which is super exciting so it’s all very busy and I’m super happy. Thanks so much for the interview guys!