theaussieword.com catches up with Aussie singer/songwriter Patrick James.
Give us an introduction. How did it all begin? What had you first interested in music?
It all began when I heard ‘Tears In Heaven’ by Eric Clapton. It sounds cheesy but I think I was instantly drawn to the emotion and the back story in that song. I guess I can pin point my love for singer/songwriters to that moment. Further to that, my mum used to teach piano out of our house so I was naturally introduced to music and playing music from a very early age.
What motivates or influences you in your quest to make great music?
I think the biggest thing for me at the moment is to challenge myself and improve everyday with writing, recording and performing. I get a huge kick from watching other bands – especially my mates – and seeing how they are shaping their songs. That really helps my own project progress.
What are your biggest goals you hope to accomplish as an artist?
I tend to measure the amount of success you’re having by how many people you can play to and how many tickets you are selling. So that is always on my goal list, to play to more and more people each time I announce a tour means you are heading in the righty direction. I also want my music to be heard internationally and have always dreamed of that happening.
What can we expect from you in the coming months? Any plans to tour?
I am currently recording for my debut album. It’s been a long time in the making and really excited to finally be able to share the songs. California song is the first single to be taken from this forthcoming release. I have just announced two very intimate shows in Sydney and Melbourne to celebrate the single. After the album is done I will definitely be getting out on the road again and will get around to a lot more places around the country.
Tell us a bit about your latest album and how would you best describe your music?
I’ve always been attracted to the singer/songwriters who can develop a ‘band’ vibe but still create an intimate feeling. I guess that’s what i try to achieve with my songs and my sound at the moment. In saying that, my last few releases do have very stripped back moments that I will always love to work with for my future releases.
Success, what is the secret to it?
I know I still have a long way to go but doing something for your career every day is a good start. Also, nothing is more important (especially in music) than being yourself. That’s the beauty of every artist and that’s what can set you apart from the rest.
What has been your biggest career highlight?
Supporting Boy and Bear on a huge regional tour of Australia was incredible. To play to that many people and meet so many new fans was a dream come true.
Which stars of the music industry do you find inspiring?
Like I said in the above question, the artist who you can tell are just being themselves are so inspiring to me and I think to everyone else. If I was to give a couple of really big names – internationally I would probably say Ed Sheeran, Passenger .Also, Sticky fingers are by far one of the hardest working Australian bands I know and have really created their own scene, which is amazing.
Any new projects in the pipeline?
Debut album being recording as we speak. Out later in the year!
The music industry is huge, where do you see yourself a few years from now?
I want to be releasing albums in Australia and also internationally. I want to tour as much as I can because I love it. I would also love to write for other people! That would be a lot of fun.
Name a few of your favourite Aussie artists.
– sticky fingers
– boy and bear
– the whitlams
– augie march
– emma Louise
– big scary
– Sarah blasko
– crowded house
The shape of the music industry has changed significantly over the years, including the use of social media, how do you feel about the industry as a whole and what does it mean to you in getting your records out into the public eye?
I guess artists can’t rely on just one avenue of sale. What I mean by that is if there are out of the box approaches to the way we get music out there ( and there are definitely always opportunities with the introduction of social media etc) then we can form our own niche ways of reaching fans and creating a buzz. Things like creating a busking community of fans ( Passenger is a great example) , YouTube, Facebook and Instagram. All tools that have endless possibilities and for that reason these are all positives.
Thanks for the interview! What final message do you have for us today?
Thanks for the support, hope to see you at a show sometime soon!