We Caught Up with Byron-Based Artist, James Sutherland

Emerging artist James Sutherland, hailing from the idyllic Northern Rivers of NSW, Australia, is set to captivate audiences worldwide with his latest single, 'Fade.' At just 20 years old, James has garnered attention for his remarkable songwriting prowess, channeling deep and honest themes of love, loss, and mental health into his music.

In 2022, James introduced himself to the music scene with his debut EP, 'To The Surface,' which has since amassed thousands of streams globally and drawn fans from across the East Coast of Australia to his live performances. Throughout the year, James embarked on an extensive tour, leading to a fruitful collaboration with fellow musician and friend, Jay Ello. Together, they crafted the enchanting winter single, 'Hygge,' which received acclaim from music influencers such as Alex RainBird and Apeiron.

2023 marks a new chapter for James Sutherland as he joins forces with Byron Bay local musician and producer, Adam Harpaz, to unveil his latest singles, 'Whirlwind' and 'Don't Mind Me.' Combining elements of indie folk/rock with atmospheric layers, James has crafted a unique sonic identity that has resonated deeply with his audience. His songwriting displays a singular perspective, weaving personal narratives with heartfelt acoustic melodies, irresistible hooks, and electric rhythms, making his music the perfect soundtrack for your next road trip.

James Sutherland's music can be found on various social media platforms, where he regularly shares updates and engages with his growing fanbase.

'Fade' serves as a poignant reflection on the conclusion of a long-term relationship. It explores the bittersweet realization that, despite a deep and enduring love, parting ways is the best course of action when the bad outweighs the good.

'Fade' was recorded in the serene surroundings of Byron Bay in early July 2023. The single was produced by the talented local musician and producer, Adam Harpaz, along with Kees Phillips, an accomplished mix engineer and musician.

In James's own words, "Fade is the song I always used to dream of writing. Ever since I began songwriting, I knew the type of songs I wanted to write but didn't have the experience or knowledge on how to write them. This song came out very naturally, and once it was finished, I knew it was a song my 16-year-old self would dream of writing. It was inspired by a very personal story involving my parents and it had brought me to tears a few times while writing it. I knew it was going to be a special one."

We caught up with James Sutherland for a chat!

Can you tell us what your new single, ‘Fade’, is about?

'Fade' came from a very specific emotion I had in regards to a past relationship of mine. It's the feeling of wanting to go back to when the relationship first began, the excitement but also the simplicity. 'Fade' encompasses the end of the relationship, knowing that it has reached it's natural end and it's best to say goodbye, rather than hang on to a relationship that doesn't work. On a personal note it also was written around the same time that my parents were going their separate ways so it definitely added another depth to the track. 

What did the songwriting and recording process look like for this song?

The songwriting process began from a melody i had started to play and a few words to go with it. I honestly didn't work on the track until much later so it was left at pretty much just a little melody (later turned into the chorus melody). I eventually sat down and had a good crack at seeing what this melody could turn into and at the same time i was booking in studio time to get a new track produced (I had another track all ready to go) but the way 'Fade' was starting to evolve and really grabbed at my emotions and how my mental state was during this time (Mid July 2023 for reference) so i decided to take 'Fade' into the studio. I am currently recording my tracks through my good friend and Byron local musician/producer, Adam Harpaz. Adam really makes the process so clear and his production ideas are truly unique. Unfortunately Adam was heading overseas for his own European tour and 'Fade' was still very much in the production stage. Through recording my previous tracks with Adam we also had the help of Kees Phillips, Byron local musician/producer/mix engineer who has been putting his magic touches on the tracks. Kees and I finished off the production and then Kees sat down to mix everything together. 

Do you have any role models inside of the music industry that sound very different from the music you make?

My biggest role model I have had outside of my own musical sound is my good friend, Jake Ellison. Jake is a musician based in Brisbane and he and I have played a few shows together, we co wrote our track 'Hygge' and we also grew up in similar areas out in the central west, NSW. I would say that i am more or less in the indie folk/singer/songwriter scene where as Jake has lots of experience playing reggae/jazz and his own musicla knowledge far exceeds my own so it is great to be friends with and learn from such a raw talent.

What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

I was mainly inspired from other people I have seen and met who are playing music full time. Although I have played guitar for far longer than since i started persuing music seriously, it was the drive to not live the standard 9-5 work life and just do something i love which made music for myself switch from hobby to career.

If you could describe your music in three words, what would they be?

Warm, Atmospheric and Nostalgic.

If I listened to your music for the first time, who would I say you sound like?

If Sam Fender and Ed Sheeran had a baby on the Australian coastline.

Who are your biggest role models and influences outside of music?

My family are my biggest role models outside of music. They are who I go to for absolutely everything and anything and they always inspire me whethere that be in music or normal day to day life. 

If your music was a meal, what would it be?

Udon Noodle Soup.

What are your plans for the next year?

Next I plan to head on tour in late January/early February for my upcoming EP and to try and reach as many people as I can through busking and playing shows. 

Make sure to follow James Sutherland on social media for behind-the-scenes content, updates and more!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_jamessutherland_/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamessutherlandmusicau