Here at The Lowdown, we love introducing our readers to new and upcoming artists that we highly recommend you check out. In this article, we introduce you to British R&B artist James Vickery, who has recently released his new single 'Somewhere, Out There,' the first preview from his debut album, which is set to be released later this year. Speaking about his new release, he explained:
"There's never been a better time to release this song. It feels like it has such relevance in the world right now, as England is suffering a national lockdown. I wrote this song for the people in the world who are unable to see their loved ones in this dreadful time, in the hope that there is some light at the end of the tunnel. 'Somewhere, Out There' is a song for anyone who misses their significant other right now."
James Vickery has a very positively unique and distinct sound. He suffers from a hearing impairment and credits Speech Therapy from a young age for introducing him to music. On each of his releases to date, he exceptionally balances his phenomenal vocals with a subtle production and warm atmosphere.
The Lowdown had the chance to speak with James Vickery about his new release, what can be expected from his debut album and much more. Keep reading to check out what he had to say!
You have recently released your new single 'Somewhere, Out There.' How does it feel to have new music released?
"I'll be honest, it feels like an absolute blessing! The second and third lockdown has certainly taken their toll on me, but it somewhat feels like a light at the end of the tunnel. It has definitely got me through the harder moments."
"'Somewhere, Out There' is the first preview from your upcoming debut album. What can you tell us about the album so far?
"It's almost done! I'm just wrapping up some masters and a few bits here and there. It's a combination of everything I've ever felt thus far and learned and healed from. Whether it be heartbreak or platonic friendships, the album is a journey of me. I'm hoping people will be able to feel what I felt while making it."
Who would you say are your musical influences?
"It honestly changes a lot. I always loved big voices as a child. People like Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin were on repeat around the house. When I was in my teens, it was that London-centric jazz scene, like Tom Misch and Loyle Carner. Growing into my early twenties, people like Daniel Caesar and Giveon have shown me how to write beautiful songs in an intimate R&B setting. I think I resonate with that the most."
Going back to your roots, how did you first get into music?
"It was completely by accident to be honest. I always loved singing, but I was born with this condition - a Cholesteatoma benign tumour. Long story short, it left me deaf in my left ear and it meant I had to have vocal coach lessons in order to speak louder. Singing was a great way of engaging your diaphragm, and it turns out that I was okay at it! As I said, I always loved it, but no-one could ever hear me."
What does the rest of this year have in store for you?
"I'm going to have a few more singles out before the album drops which I'm really excited about, as I think they get better with each release. I dropped a series called 'Live From London.' We're about to shoot the final segment trilogy of that. It's probably the part of my project that I'm most proud of."
Finally, do you have a message for all those who support you?
"Thank you for being patient. Thank you for being you. I promise that whatever happens this year in the world, you will be hearing a LOT of music from me in 2021."
'Somewhere, Out There' is out now and is available to purchase and stream through all responsible music purchasing and streaming outlets.
By Rachel Dempster
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