Oliver James

Oliver Jamess

There is a current of old world tension and modern angst captured in the music of Oliver James and that energy, as embodied in his debut radio single ‘The More You Love The More You Live’ has got listeners enthralled. It's time the world learned more about this intriguing pop rock artist.

Some artists try to scale their way to the top of the music industry by personal flamboyance (or inscrutability). Others work the business like hardened politicians and hope that money and fame will redeem whatever compromises are made along the way. But a very few can do it by a golden amalgamation of originality, musicianship and talent. Oliver James is such an artist. Hailing from La Jolla, California, Oliver James has been fast attracting recognition and honors, and one recent critic's account of his award-winning work probably explains why: ‘Oliver James has created an anthemic pop classic that effortlessly alternates between saturated instrumentality and brilliant lyrical insights.’ You can hear the authenticity in every verse and chord of his new pop rock single, which undoubtedly explains its rapid ascent up the charts. Independent reporter Lily Clark recently caught up with Oliver James to talk about his history, musical influences and exciting plans for the future.

LILY: Let's just get this out in the open- What is the craziest thing that has happened to you in your music career?
OLIVER JAMES: Early in my career, I was in a band that asked to open a number of shows for the band Gwar. At the outset, we were all apprehensive, but the experience turned out to be an amazing one. Not only were the guys in Gwar extremely nice, but they were supportive of us, and were generous with their time. It was also a very educational experience. Gwar has an amazing production, and it is all executed by them. We learned a lot about what it takes to put on an amazing stage show, and how to treat your fans.

LILY: Your song ’The More You Love The More You Live’ is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
OLIVER JAMES: There is nothing like hearing yourself on the radio. In many ways, it's the culmination of what I do as a musician. Getting the positive feedback is justification and confirmation of my belief in myself. Hearing myself on radio is like the world shouting out, "keep going son, this is hat it is about!" And that gives me the motivation to keep going. I'm so grateful that there are those out there that feel strongly about my music and take the time to listen. Music is made to be shared!

LILY: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
OLIVER JAMES: The more you love the more you live finds inspiration from striving to be a positive contributor to the world. We are all here on this planet for a reason, and it's my belief that the reason is to help one another. By helping each other, by loving each other, is how we improve our own lives.

LILY: It is often said that great art arises from difficult experience. Is there something in your life experience thus far that you would describe as the ‘catalyst’ or ‘fuel’ for your desire to create music?
OLIVER JAMES: I've been fortunate in that I haven't experienced hard times in my life like many have. I have a loving family, and I have my health. But I have seen much pain. My art strives to offer hope and strength, but not in a preaching way. It's serious music, and I hope there is a positive message should the listener seek it out.

LILY: How would you characterize yourself as an artist/musician? (Ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving, complicated…)
OLIVER JAMES: I think music is a very powerful thing, and we all need it in our lives. In that regard, I consider myself a serious musician. I could give up much in my life, but not music. I'm serious because I take my role as a musician and creative producer seriously. Having said that, I love the creative process. I also appreciate the history of the art form and those who have paved the way for people like me.

LILY: What has your experience been like working with the other people on your team?
OLIVER JAMES: I'm so privileged that I have so many brilliant people working with me. The amazing producer Alan Sanderson who has worked with so many amazing artists (Rolling Stones, Elton John, Weezer, Fleetwood Mac, Ryan Adams and so many more), Brett Levine who is my co-writer, Christian Howes who writes and produces my string arrangements, and Dave Gresalfi who is my brilliant visual artist who creates staging and video pieces. All of these people are amazingly generous wth their time, and are brilliant at what they do. They make my life such that I can focus on my performance, whether it be live or in the studio.

LILY: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
OLIVER JAMES: Actually, I'm the only musician in my immediate family. Interestingly, my Grandmother played piano in movie theaters for the silent movies when she was a young girl.

LILY: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
OLIVER JAMES: Great question! Easily the most rewarding is when someone contacts me to say how a song of mine has had a positive impact on their life. There is nothing like hearing that my music has helped get someone through a difficult time. That means the world to me. As for the most challenging, I'd say differentiating myself from the many other amazing artists in the world. I want my music to stand out and do so on its own merit, without gimmick, and without excuses. A musician's life is not a meritocracy. So much of a musician's success has to do with luck, who you know, and being in the right place at the right time. That can be frustrating at times.

LILY: Who are your role models in music?
OLIVER JAMES: I love so many different types of music, and am a fan of so many different artists. My main inspiration would have to be David Bowie. He has done so many amazing things, has written so many classic songs, and has done so on his own terms without regard for what the marketplace wants. He is true to his own vision, and has such a strong belief in his ideas. It's as if he is devoid of self-doubt. He never repeats himself, and always chooses the most challenging path. I find that amazing.

LILY: Thank you for letting us get to know you better as an artist and I wish you the best of luck and continued success.