This week we caught up with Mitch James, a musician who has put social platforms to use to really make waves in the NZ music scene. Here is 5 mins with Mitch:
What inspired you to create and perform music?
I felt disillusioned with the social norm of getting a 9-5 job and slaving away for someone else, coupled with the fact that I was a bit of a loner growing up, it seemed like music was the perfect outlet and avenue to chase. Eventually I grew tired of playing other peoples songs, and started to dabble in writing my own stuff, it sucked at first but creating music is like unclogging dirty pipes, just keep pushing through and eventually clean water will flow.
Are there composers or performers that do a similar thing that have influenced you to get your particular style and content?
I listened to all types of music growing up, from folk, to hip hop, to drum and bass. However the artist I took most inspiration from would have to be Ed Sheeran, not only for his sound musically, but because of his path to success, which was forged through hard graft and perseverance.
Any other idols or role models that have influenced you to make your hobby into a life long career?
Conor McGregor, the Mixed Martial Arts fighter would have to be my number one inspiration. His philosophies, more specifically his focus on the Law of Attraction have been huge for me in finding my path to success. A positive outlook and having a firm belief something will happen are the 2 key points that I have taken from him, that have helped me turn music from a hobby into a career.
Do you have preferences on the type of music or the type of crowd you would perform to?
I truly don’t. Every crowd is a different challenge that by the end of the set, I hope to have conquered.
Have you set any goals for the future?
I have accomplished 2 of my life long goals this year, signing a major record deal and playing the main stage at Rhythm and Vines on New Years Eve. After achieving these in 1 year, I decided on a couple new life goals. To sell 1,000,000 records and to play at Madison Square Garden.
How would you go about portraying your music online?
I want to portray my music online the same way I hope to portray my image and music in person, with messages of positivity, unity and generally promoting a good time.
Have you got any new and exciting projects we can expect to see from you soon?
My first single ‘Wave’ is coming out through Sony Music, closely followed by my debut EP, ‘The Calm’!
Mitch recently signed with Sony, so be expecting more from this talent! Head over to his Facebook page here, to catch a bunch of videos and content he’s put together on his journey.
To work with influencers like Mitch, create a profile on the TSC platform, or contact us.
