INTERVIEW:
Micky James
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ALTHOUGH it is a bit of a brief interview…
I have been finding out more about Micky James and his new work. He has two new tracks out, New Heart and Tie Me Up, and I ask about the former and what inspired its creation; whether there is more material coming next year and when music came into his life.
James reveals a few albums that are important to him and whether there is a rising act we need to get behind; whether the New York artist is hitting the road and if he ever dedicates time to unwinding and getting away from music.
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Hi, Micky. How are you? How has your week been?
I’ve been well! Getting ready to start rehearsals for November-December tour.
For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?
My name is Micky James. I’m from N.Y.C. and I play guitar music.
How did New Heart come together? What is the story behind the song?
New Heart, lyrically, came from a more personal place. To keep it general and on the surface, it’s about understanding and the acceptance of change in one’s life for the better. A rebirth if you will.
Might we see an E.P. or more mater next year?
Yes! You might even see one before the New Year. Lots more music about to come out.
Was your early life filled with music? Which artists did you follow when growing up?
Yes. I come from a very artistic family. I got into music at a very young age. Around eight-years-old, I believe. That’s when I was introduced to The Beatles, Led Zeppelin; The Beach Boys etc.
What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?
To keep expanding the world of Micky James. More music is coming and hopefully more people tuning in.
Do you already have plans for 2019?
I’m in the process of making plans for the New Year.
Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music so far – the one that sticks in the mind?
The times that always stick out to me are the times actually making the music. The creative process. The sweat and the tears that go into the songs.
Which three albums mean the most to you would you say (and why)?
Hmmm. I’d say The Strokes’ Is This It; Led Zeppelin – Led Zeppelin and David Bowie - The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
Without these albums, I wouldn’t be the musician I am today. They shaped everything about me as a singer, a writer and a performer.
If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?
I guess the pinnacle band to open for would be The Rolling Stones. Biggest band in the world.
What advice would you give to new artists coming through?
To be themselves completely - this business is filled with tricks and traps. To truly know and accept yourself for who you are will most likely benefit you in the long run.
Do you have tour dates coming up? Where can we catch you play?
Yes. I’ll be on the Alt Nation Advanced Placement Tour supporting The Regrettes and Welles. All dates and tix on my website.
Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?
I’m into this band The Lemon Twigs at the moment. Very cool band from Long Island, N.Y.
Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?
No, not really. I don’t really watch T.V. or anything. That’s boring to me. If I’m gonna ‘unwind’; I might as we’ll be working on a song idea or something creative.
Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song (not ones of your own - I shall do that) and I’ll play it here.
The Strokes – Someday
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