Cover José James (Photo: Courtesy of José James and Janette Beckman)

José James, known as the jazz artist for the hip-hop generation, will bring holiday tunes to his Hong Kong debut at Café Carlyle

Imagine the combined style of the expressive Billie Holiday, “Prince of Motown” Marvin Gaye and the soulful John Coltrane—those are the greats that influenced New York-based jazz vocalist José James into the musician he is today. Known for his innovative approach, James weaves together traditional and contemporary jazz, hip-hop, soul, funk, pop, rock and spoken word in his music. And he calls it “jazz with swag”.

James’ unique style has earnt him accolades even early on in his career, including the L’Académie du Jazz Grand Prix in 2010 and the Edison Award in 2013, two of Europe’s most prestigious music awards. The singer then shot to fame when he recorded two songs for the soundtrack of Fifty Shades Darker (2017), an album that also featured Taylor Swift and John Legend, among others.

Tatler Asia
Above José James (Photo: Courtesy of José James and Janette Beckman)

Now, he is coming to Hong Kong for the first time to perform at Carlyle & Co’s Café Carlyle from December 21 to 24. Tatler catches up with James ahead of his first visit to the city to talk all things music.

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Above José James and his musician friends (Photo: Courtesy of José James and Janette Beckman)

How do you feel about your first trip to Hong Kong?

I’ve always wanted to visit Hong Kong. I love visiting new places and discovering the local cuisine, culture and music. Travel inspires me and I enjoy learning about the architecture and history of cities.

What will you perform at Café Carlyle?

It will be a mix of classic tracks suitable for the festive season, especially from my holiday album, Merry Christmas From José James, which features renowned bassist and arranger, Ben Williams, and pianist Aaron Parks [from jazz band James Farm].

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Above Merry Christmas From José James (Photo: Courtesy of José James and Janette Beckman)

How would you describe your signature style?

Jazz with swag. I love the traditional style of the classic singers like Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald. To that I add some elements from 70s soul jazz, some R&B and the spirituality of John and Alice Coltrane.

Is there anyone or anything that has influenced your style?

My main musical inspirations are Billie Holiday, John Coltrane and Marvin Gaye. I find inspiration everywhere but especially in art, fashion and travel. I’m constantly buying art and photography books, and looking for something new.

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Tatler Asia
Above José James (Photo: Courtesy of José James and Janette Beckman)

What inspired you to become a jazz musician in the first place?

I fell in love with the whole culture: the suits, the cool glasses and the challenging yet uplifting music. It remains the greatest puzzle to me, figuring out what jazz is and learning to better express myself through it. I’m honoured to be a part of the jazz community worldwide.

How has your music evolved since your debut?

My first album The Dreamer (2008) contained the seeds of everything I would focus on later—jazz, R&B, ballads, hip-hop and electronic styles. I’m happy to say that I’ve become a better performer, vocalist and producer since then but I’m proud of that first album too.

The biggest difference is now I know my fanbase and have a good idea if they’ll love or be challenged by a new song or album.

Tatler Asia
Above José James (Photo: Courtesy of José James and Janette Beckman)

Why do you like blending traditional and contemporary styles of music?

Growing up I listened to everything from Nirvana and Marvin Gaye to De La Soul and Miles Davis. I enjoy all of it and I see a connecting thread through all these styles of music. Maybe it’s because I’m from Minneapolis like Prince. We love it all.

Has the hip-hop generation influenced you?

I was born in 1978 so it was the defining music of my generation. It was exciting to discover so many incredible artists: Tupac Shakur, Biggie Smalls, Mos Def, Nas, Queen Latifah, Digable Planets, and Lauryn Hill and the Fugees. To me hip-hop is a culture that makes something out of nothing. It showed me that all you need are dedication and discipline to bring your music to the world. Rappers have greatly influenced the way I sing and phrase my lyrics.

Tatler Asia
Above José James (Photo: Courtesy of José James and Janette Beckman)

Tell us about your new projects.

My new album On & On comes out on January 20, 2023. It’s a jazz tribute to American songster Erykah Badu’s works. I’ll be touring it worldwide but I’m especially looking forward to visiting places that I haven’t been to in a few years, such as Australia, South Africa and Brazil. I also have a feature called Ache For coming out this month with [American musician and producer] Moby that [my wife and musician] Taali and I wrote together. Beyond that I’m featured on the new albums by saxophonist Ben Wendel and the Christian McBride Big Band.

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