Meet James TW, a 19-year-old musical from the UK stealing hearts across the country during his summer tour! Interview conducted by Evelyn Atieno and Madeline Johnson
E: How was it working with Shawn Mendes?
Working with Shawn was a fun experience. He’s a really nice guy. He kind of introduced me to my record label. He’s very chill, he’s kind of a perfectionist and I am too. He takes things seriously but can also have a good time like me.
E: You got your first break at a wedding at 10 with your father playing the drums after the drum couldn’t do the gig, how was it?
It was very fun, I just really liked that my father encouraged me to do something creative. I was 10 when I started playing with him and his band. I still remember it so well. Ever since then my passion for performing has grown and I start writing songs and music.
M: The drummer got jealous?
The drummer was ill for one of the gigs is why I stepped in. After that, he didn’t continue as an entertainer, so I stepped in.
E: Did you always know you wanted to do music, and be a star? Did you make plans for college?
I certainly didn’t believe I was going to be a star. For me it was tricky, I didn’t feel like it was the right thing for me to go to college.
It was hard for me to step away. But I got a chance with a record label and my parents agreed that it was an opportunity to try.
E: Are there American traditions that you find weird? Or any slang you find odd? For example, in the UK you use words like banter.
There’s a lot of different lingo between us. I just try to stay as British as I can, because if I go back and suddenly saying ‘freeway’ or whatever you guys say my friends will get angry at me. I love the NBA.
E: What’s your favorite team?
I’ve been a Cavs guy for the past couple years.
E: So how did it feel losing?
I don’t feel that bad, I just wish there was something more to the finals.
E: You’re a teenager going country to country, how do you maintain your friendships? Do they treat you the same?
The good ones treat me the same. I certainly figured out the good ones cause they stay the same as they always been. When I go home, I like to go out with them and forget about things going on.
E: I saw your performance with Ruth B. What female artist would you want to work with?
Tori Kelly, she’s great. Norah Jones, massive fan. There’s a few. Collaboration is a cool thing. It’s very fun for me.
M: Your songs are about girls — have you dated a lot of girls?
E: Is it hard dating and touring since you’re busy?
I haven’t had a ton of relationships I’m quite a serious person when it comes to relationships. With songs, a lot of the songs are about the same people. A couple of songs are all about the same girls. With friendship, it’s tricky to maintain that when you’re busy.
M: Do you not care for hookup culture?
I never did that, and never wanted to do that.
E: What was the moment you felt like ‘I really made it’?
There have been different ones, but playing on the Ellen show was the one. I’ve been watching Ellen since I was a kid. So being backstage was surreal, I just got goosebumps saying it. I even still have the Ellen mug she gave me on my table at home. Playing O2 area with Shawn Mendes was another one, it was priceless and I’ll remember.
E: What direction is your album going towards?
I released an EP last year called ‘First Impressions’ that kind of had a good scope of what I am about. For me, that’s what the album is gonna be, but I left space in the middle to add some more.
E: As you progress on in your career, what person is a ‘wild card for you’?
I would love to work with Miguel, I am a big fan of R&B Soul.
E: Do you ever get overwhelmed with touring?
I miss my bed (laughs), there’s nothing like your own bed at home. I have gotten patches of struggling with it and enjoying it. I’m content right now. Although I am hungry right now because we haven’t had lunch yet (laughs).
E: How do your parents feel about your new found fame?
They’re proud.
E: What venue are you looking forward to performing at?
Red Rocks, that would be cool. Madison Square Gardens, Staples and Radio City
E: Difference between UK festivals and American festivals?
The only difference a lot of people are asking me for my wristband in car parks afterward, but you know people are trying to make money. I am not giving it to them though (laughs).
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