Joshua James Interview: SXSW 2010

Joshua James, a 25-year-old singer and songwriter hailing from Lincoln, Nebraska, has been creating music since the early 2000s. After his 2008 album, The Sun is Always Brighter, received much attention and critical acclaim, James followed it up with another hit album, Build Me This. Build Me This is James' most recent album and features a collection of folk-inspired harmonies, a bit of country flare and even a few cultural / worldly sounds.

Describe the sound of your music in your own words.

It sounds like music you could throw off the back of a train.

When did you begin creating music?

I always have whistled and hummed. Singing came later, and guitar and piano was the last to jump in.


What made you want to create music?

My mother wanted me to play music.

What's her response now that music is such a huge part of your life?

She always says that she's proud of me.

Were there any musical influences in your life growing up? Any current influences?

My mother played a lot of piano and so that was a constant in my life. I am also overly fond of Tom Waits.

How do you create your music?

I enjoy the sound of nothing, it seems most fitting in those times to write. I can't plan most things very well.

What types of things do you typically write about?

Usually some type of hatred...

Complete this sentence: The world would be a better place if _____.

I chose to be a doctor.

What has been the highlight of your music career, thus far?

Probably playing in a bowling Alley in London.

What's your favorite part about performing?

It would have to be the ability to interact with humans.

When you're not making music or acting, how do you spend your free time?

I spend it reading about Evan Coulombe, the conductor of the Beagle Victor Two.

What are you looking forward to most about SXSW?

Sleeping at my friend and amazing artist Lex Land's house.



Wendy Gould is a contributor from Seed.com. Learn how you can contribute here.