R&B funk bassist/guitarist Trevor James drops his single “Maxine,.” A heady jam with a soulful groove, “Maxine”is the title track of his forthcoming album, set for release later this summer. Check out his recent killer set on Jam in the Van to get a feel for his style. Trevor James’ music draws inspiration from rock & roll eras gone by, when bands didn’t rely on stage antics or glitzy production – just pure talent and sweat.
James grew up in Los Angeles, surrounded by a community of like-minded musicians who encouraged and supported his own interest in music. Becoming involved in his local scene from a young age, all-night jam sessions with his best friends soon turned into local gigs, and the time eventually came for Trevor to break off as a solo act. Most recently, Trevor has been featured in Germany’s Bass Quarterly and released 3 albums – 2017’s My Train and 2016’s jazz fusion releases World and The Dreamer.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Trevor about the new project, motivations, challenges and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)
I am from Los Angeles California. My music would be considered indie pop/rock.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to stay the course?
Well I grew up around music. My father Kenny James is and has been a lead singer in countless bands and has performed around the world. Growing up around that seeing and hearing the roar of the crowd really motivated me to pursue this career and to stay motivated doing it.
How is your new release different than previous ones? Did you set out to accomplish anything specific?
This time around I am going through Effective Immediately PR to help me get my music out to places that are difficult for me to reach out to. My previous release I did all of my own marketing. I hope to gain and accomplish a bigger fan base more shows and the main goal is to start touring and head line my own shows.
Do you face any challenges as an indie musician in a digital age? On the flip side, how has technology helped you (if it has)?
I would say I haven’t faced any challenges so far. Since I am very active on social media, its much easier for me to contact someone or get my music out faster and to a bigger audience. On the flip side it is very competitive because there are millions of other artists doing the same thing.
Where can we follow you online and hear more music?
You can follow me on Instagram @Mr_International___ Twitter @MrTrevorJames and my Youtube Channel @TrevorJames. I am also on Spotify and Itunes.
Anything else before we sign off?
I hope that people can relate, groove and vibe to my music for decades.
