American musician Shawn James brings his Flew Too Close To The Sun tour to The Academy, Dublin on 12 February, Dolans Warehouse, Limerick on 13 February, and Cyprus Avenue, Cork on 14 February. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
Born and raised In Chicago, he began releasing his own music in 2012 and plays a wide range of genres, from folk to blues, R&B to Gospel to rock and metal.
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Speaking about his live shows, he says, "If you come see me play live and expect just one style or aspect of what I do, you may be disappointed to learn that our shows are a roller coaster of emotions, musical styles, intensity and energy. I get bored easily & love to mix things up. Be ready and bring your ear plugs just in case . . . "
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I write and release my music independently. I'm drawn to darker, honest stories in both sound and lyrics. I value solitude and quiet as much as the stage.
How would you describe your music?
Dark Americana rooted in folk and blues, with a cinematic edge. It’s raw, stripped back, and built around atmosphere and emotional weight.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Artists who feel timeless and unfiltered. Johnny Cash, Nina Simone, Townes Van Zandt, Ray LaMontagne, Otis Redding, and early blues artists who played like their life depended on it.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
A small local show as a teenager. Loud, imperfect, and electric. It was the first time I realised music could feel dangerous and alive.
What was the first record you ever bought?
Staind - Break the Cycle. At the time, it felt very new, heavy and emotional. I was like 11 years old or so.
What’s your favourite song right now?
Exist for Love by AURORA. Simple, pure, and devastating in the best way.
Favourite lyric of all time?
This is a very difficult question and I feel like there’s many answers but I’ll go with: "There been times that I thought, I couldn't last for long, But now, I think I'm able, To carry on, It's been a long, A long time coming, but I know, A is change gon' come" - A Change is Gon’ Come by Sam Cooke.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Again! Impossible to truly answer because it’s so situational for me . . . but let’s go with Grinnin’ in your Face by Son House for now . . .
Where can people find your music or more information?
All streaming platforms under my name, and directly at my website. Patreon and social media are where I share the deeper, behind-the-scenes side.
Alan Corr
