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ore and more musicians are moving away from the techno/ computerised-sounds and are incorporating the talents of session musicians.
The addition of a saxophone or a trumpet adds volume and depth to magnificent lyrics and compositions and in the case of James Stewart, highlights his enormous talent.
‘It took a long time to acknowledge myself as a songwriter,’ says James, ‘and to surround myself with the best musicians. I don’t wake up in the morning and think I am going to write – rather I sit in front of the piano and wait to be visited by the muse. She just pulls in an puts an idea into my head – there might be three to five notes to begin … and then …’
James who recently released his first ‘solo’ album ‘a man like me’ is a former member of Cape Town-based band ‘The Usual’. ‘It’s deeply personal,’ he says, ‘it’s getting people to know what I’m about.’
The album was three-and-a-half years in the making – ‘It was a really interesting process writing songs which didn’t have a chance with the band – not their type of music.’
Since leaving the band James has travelled. ‘New York was a massive eye-opener. It’s not the same as in South Africa where you have to have really high standards to succeed – there is so much opportunity over there that you don’t have to be the best in the field. This is actually quite distressing as anyone can write a melody.
‘However, now we are part of a global community and I really believe that I have something to offer. I enjoy breaking down the music, refining and deconstructing.’
James really enjoys relating to people and small intimate gigs provide much enjoyment. ‘It’s really special to watch other people enjoy your music – sometimes it’s not what you expect and sometimes it’s more.’
‘a man like me’ comprises 13 original tracks which are sure to leave you in an extremely mellow mood and having got to know James Stewart just a little better. |
