Beyonce knows. Universal Music know. And, very soon, you’ll know too. For, the industry buzz surrounding this New Orleans native shows no sign of slowing.
Despite his humble age, the singer-songwriter is no stranger to the industry. Indeed, some may remember his J Records jaunt as part of R&B duo Luke & Q (their debut ‘My Turn’ still garners many a play here at TGJ HQ).
And while that venture didn’t propel James to the heights his talent called for, it also didn’t quel his desire to succeed. As such, he picked up pen and began crafting hits for a bevy of music’s biggest names – including Chris Brown (‘Crawl’) and Britney Spears (‘Kill The Lights’).
True talent, as the saying goes, can’t but be discovered eventually – and it wasn’t long before James’ abilities caught the attention of a certain Frank Gatson. Creative force behind the likes of Beyonce, EnVogue, Tyrese and the King of Pop Michael Jackson, Gatson spent a year honing and refining James, ultimately managing him into a lucrative record deal with Island Def Jam/Universal (by way of producer Danja‘s New Age Rock Stars imprint).
Now ready to emerge from the shadows, James posits a compelling package. For, in an industry which increasingly favours image over substance, his pin-up looks and undeniable vocal ability sees him dually tick both boxes. It’s this combination which has also garnered him a fan in none other than Beyonce; who not only featured him prominently in her ‘Run The World’ visual, yet more over is an actual fan of his music.
So as to whet apetites for James’ forthcoming material, ‘HIT’ play on the clip above for a visual exclamation!