Hollywood Dame Exclusive Interview with Signed CD and Poster GIVEAWAY – Brendan James

Despite the title of his new single “The Fall,” soulful singer-songwriter Brendan James is definitely on the rise. After releasing his acclaimed debut “The Day is Brave” in 2008, Brendan, a native of New Hampshire, signed with Universal/Decca Records. Now, he is ready to release his self-titled sophomore effort on September 7th. He says of the record: “The album is self-titled because I feel like it’s my first recording that really showcases the different sides of me as a musician. It’s got everything from the mellow to the upbeat, to the somber to the unabashedly positive… I have a lot of different sides and I wanted to make sure my music reflected that.”

While the new album keeps the spotlight on Brendan’s emotionally resonant voice and expressive piano-playing (the legendary Carly Simon describes him as having “a voice that can change the world”), he and producer Warren Huart (Augustana, the Fray) added in musical textures like synths, strings, and even drum loops to keep things interesting. The romantic first single “The Fall” is an excellent showcase of all that Brendan has to offer. The music video was directed by friend and actor Justin Baldoni, and stars Melissa Ordway of The Last Song and Melrose Place, along with Greek’s Amber Stevens. Watch it here to experience Brendan for yourself, and listen for Brendan’s track “The Lucky One” in the trailer for new Sony film “How Do You Know,” starring Jack Nicholson, Owen Wilson, and Reese Witherspoon.

Brendan’s album is available for pre-order now on iTunes, but until then he is offering a free download of song “Stupid For Your Love” on his website, at BrendanJames.com/FreeDownload. Stay tuned to the site for all the latest updates!

I had the chance to speak with Brendan about things such as his interest in music, his upcoming album, and what keeps him grounded. You can read about that below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?

My first real memory of knowing that i loved singing, was in first grade, when i sang in a school production of “Babushka”. I remember practicing my solo all day and night around my house. It wasn’t until i was 19 though, that I learned piano and started writing my own songs.

How did you break into the music industry?

I broke in through New York City. I moved there, hit the open mic scene, found a manager, made tons of demos… and when the demo’s stopped sucking, I got signed to Capitol Records.

How would you describe the sound of your music, and what makes you feel that your upcoming album is different from your first?

The sound of my new album is brighter and more up beat. It was a lot of fun spreading my wings a bit, experimenting with different styles and sides of myself. Albums should catalog the range of stages artists slip through in life. This one speaks to the one i was in directly after touring 16 months straight.

What are some of your plans for promoting your album?

Hitting the internet with a vengeance, touring til I’m blue in the face, pitching songs to tv and film, living on a prayer that radio in this country is still worth a damn.

What are some of your short term and long term goals that you have lined out for yourself?

Short term goal is to tour the world on the shoulders of a Grammy nominated album. Long term goal is to live a full and happy life, making music, babies, and photographs.

Have you written or created a song that didn’t make an album cut that you wished would have?

Yeah, I wrote a song called ‘Monday Calls’ last year, attempted production on it with 2 different producers, and watched it fall to the wayside just as final tracks were being selected. Its hard to describe how that happens sometimes. But all i can say is that, though artists don’t often admit it, albums are the sum of many people’s hard work, and of many people’s trusted opinions.

Do you have any musical pet peeves?

Tough question, kinda bugs me when solo performers base their whole show on looping their guitar. Only works if you’re REALLY good at I think.

Besides music, what are some of your favorite things to do? What keeps you grounded?

Anything in nature grounds me. While touring for example, I try to spend almost every minute of downtime out in the woods or by the ocean. It keeps me calm and inspired. Of course it does.

What do you miss most, besides family and friends, while you are out traveling and playing?

Right now i miss my dog, Rubi, like crazy. She’s the sh*t. But i also miss that feeling of ‘nothing to do and nowhere to be’ that is nearly impossible to find on the road. NO matter how many hours or days off you have, there’s always another.

What is one accomplishment you hope to make above all others in your life and career?

To be a good person.

Ok Brendan James fans! Here is your chance to score a free SIGNED copy of Jame’s new album along with a poster! Simply post your favorite Brendan James song and why you love it in the comment section below and one lucky person will win! Contest ends September 17th. Good luck!

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