Hey there, this is Shawn James.
I’ve had way too many writers think they could sum me up and relay what I’m about from an hour-long conversation so they could write my “bio” but I’ve had it. Screw that. I’ll tell it in my own words.
I was born and raised In Chicago, Illinois. I grew up on the south side of the city where I attended a gospel church. I was always around a lot of heartfelt soulful music and hardworking, real, down-to-earth people. Although I no longer abide by any religion, I value the times I had and how they shaped me to be what I am now.
I’ve moved around quite a bit living in all different parts of the US. While absorbing all sorts of different cultures from here & around the world, I’ve developed my own sound.
I started releasing my own music in 2012 and haven’t stopped since. I play a wide range of music from folk to blues, r&b, Gospel to rock, metal, and a lotta things in between. The main constant amongst all the genres would be that it’s all done with emotion, feeling, heart, and a lotta soul. I mean what I say and deeply feel what I play.
I play covers of songs I dig sometimes and although some people may only know me because of those, I’m hardly just a cover artist.
If you come see me play live and expect just one style or aspect of what I do, you may be disappointed to learn that our shows are a roller coaster of emotions, musical styles, intensity, and energy. I get bored easily & love to mix things up. Be ready and bring your earplugs just in case.
I’ve always been the underdog so to speak since I’ve never had the backing of a large record label, big marketing firm, or massive PR company, and I truly like it that way. I feel as though I’ve earned what I have through hard work, determination, a good bit of luck & the great relationships with people I’ve made along the way. I’ve learned a lot of lessons the hard way being in this “music business industry” and that’s alright by me. I’ve seen that with your support (the listeners out there) I can make my wildest dreams come true.
If you want to listen to an artist that’s authentic, genuine, and original then you’ve come to the right place. I hope you enjoy the music and will join me on this journey that I’m so extremely grateful to be on. Thank you all so very much.
Love,
Shawn James
