Daily Inspiration: Meet STEPHEN James

Today we’d like to introduce you to STEPHEN James.

Hi STEPHEN, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
“Sure! I started playing Guitar at 14yrs- that was really my introduction to music. It gave me a foundation and helped me develop my style. I didn’t start singing until i was 21, so that came a bit later, but once I did everything clicked. Im heavily influenced by rock and metal from the ’90s and early 2000’s- that era really shaped my soumd. Breaking Benjamin is my favorite band , and their music has had a huge impact on me, both in terms of song writing and performance. I worked off and on in cover bands for 20yrs. During my previous marriage I lost touch with music. After a divorce in 2020 I found myself writing songs and formed a group called Suicidal Fish with a 1st ever original song release in 2022 #yearofthefish. The song called Suffercate written by lead guitarist Jon Bohem. Still available on all platforms. The band was short lived but taught me so much. About becoming an original musician. I began writing and recording material under my own name Stephen James at Flatlander Audio Recording studio with Anthony Lee my Producer and friend. During that time I was the vocalist for another original Band called Taylor Mountain put together by Steven Pogoreski, shareing stages with National touring bands like Tantric, Makes My Blood Dance and Redburn. Unfortunately, do to a work relocation I had to part with T.M.- and found myself in Clearwater/Largo, Florida at the end of 2024 where I hooked up with Clear Tracks Studios. Released my latest single- Living Free May 15th, available on Spotify and all major streaming platforms. Though, now a resident of Florida, I will always be a Michigan Made Musician, 43yrs of my life spent there. I’ve also been an advocate for local musicians in Michigan while living in Saginaw, my wife and I who I recently married in October 2024 put together a podcast in Jan 2024 Called TuneTalk with Jen and Stephen James. A Music based channel Interviewing and promoting local Michigan musicians as well as national Touring bands coming through Michigan for gigs. We worked closely with The VAULT in Saginaw Michigan hosting interviews with bands that would do shows there. One of the things I hold onto the most from the podcast is the hashtag because it’s so important to have music in your life. Music saved mine. So always remember to #keepthemusicplaying.”

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
“Unfortunately, it has not been a smooth road getting here. I went through many trials. I struggled with addiction, mental health and a divorce after spending 22yrs of marriage. It really shaped me into the person I am today. Fortunately, I came out on the other side a stronger person and learned many lessons. The pain and growth from those experiences have given my music more depth and purpose. I am a better Father, grandfather, husband, son, friend and musician because of what I went through.”

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
**”I’m a guitar player and Singer/song writer with over 30yrs experience. Over the years, I’ve written five original songs so far, with many more in the works. I’ve also released four music videos that I’m really proud of. Beyond that, I co-host and produce a podcast with my wife and partner called Tune Talk with Jen and Stephen James, where we dive into music, creativity, and artist stories. We recently launched a second podcast here in Largo, Florida called, Mouthful Mayhem, where we spotlight local restaurants and talk with customers about there experiences with food- its been a lot of fun blending our passions.
I’m a very hard worker, and music truly is my life. I think what sets me apart is that I don’t limit myself to one genre. I pull from a wide range of influences- Rock, Metal, Pop, Hip-hop- and try to blend those styles to something authentic to who I am as an artist.”**

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
“Like most people, I’ve had my share of good luck and bad. There have definitely been ups and downs along the way, but what’s kept me going is hard work and dedication. No matter what challenges I’ve faced, I always seem to find my way back- and more often than not, I find the answers through music. It’s been my constant, my therapy, and my guide through every season of life.”

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallfishnpond81?igsh=MWl1bTd6eGpjZXA4MQ==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16DP6PVa6Y/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-james-674955151?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@stephenjames-rc2xd?si=YvpYkz4lMJ5y09aP
• Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-james-674955151?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app

Image Credits
Creatavid with M.L Jimenez