Matt James

BIO

Born and raised in County Durham, I have always had a strong interest in music; from my mother encouraging me to attempt to tinkle on a piano key or two to having music lessons right up until the age of 17, which showed me how to read music and understand the influence it has on others as well as myself. I started performing at the age of 12 in school, after discovering I had a talent in singing ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ by Simon and Garfunkel. From there things progressed, to winning and participating in various talent competitions, solo’s in school concerts and the formation of a band at 15.

With all this music surrounding me, it was only a matter of time before I started writing my own lyrics, trying to capture the emotion of various situations and events that many of my influences had already managed to do; contemporary artists such Michael Jackson, Adele and Bruno Mars to more underground acts such as Ben Howard and at the time, Ed Sheeran. So after graduating from university in Liverpool in 2011, I moved to London to pursue what I had always dreamed and can only imagine myself doing.

Though I am very much at the start of my music career, I believe I have the diversity and the unique style of voice to be a success. I have yet to perform in London but I am very excited to do so, so people can hear and for me to be able to share what I have to offer.

I draw my inspiration for lyrics from my own personal experiences, whether it be bad break ups to simple things like moving to a new city and not knowing anyone. Because more often than not, there will be a dozen to one people that have shared that similar experience, but may have dealt with it a different way. I believe it’s good to be able to listen to a song that people can relate to, not just have a good baseline or catchy rhythm. My first two songs ‘Because’ and ‘Do You Remember’ are about the same relationship ending, but of different aspects of a break up; ‘Because’ being a lot more forceful and depicting anger in lyrics, with ‘Do You Remember’ being a lot more reminiscent and longing.

The move to London was definitely something I don’t regret, though it has been difficult. And hopefully all the hard work and enthusiasm will pay off!

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