If you can hear a highly expressive croon coming from the direction of New York City, it’s likely the voice of Micky James. Hailing from the “City of Brotherly Love” AKA Philadelphia, Micky James brings just the right amount of grit and glam to every song and stage he touches. Rather than mimicking the rock ‘n’ roll greats that strutted in leather & lace before him, he brings a new and alluring perspective to the genre that is equal parts timeless and nostalgic.
Following the release of James’ new single “James Brown,” Schön! enlists him to compile his curated list with musings about his style and fashion, touching on his coming-of-age story, the music that’s shaped his artistry, and more.
Hey Micky, what are you up to right now?
I’m currently working on some new music and prepping for upcoming live shows.
If someone asked you what your origin story was, how would you describe it?
I grew up in a very musical family which led me to picking up the guitar at a very young age. My dad introduced me to The Beatles first, and my cousins and uncle introduced me to a variety of different artists such as Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, and the like. From my teenage years on, I performed in many bands which led me to drop out of school and pursue music professionally. From there it was a whirlwind; I started my first band as a frontman and got signed to a major label. Eventually, that group disbanded, leading me to my current project as a solo artist.
In three words, how would you describe your style?
Eclectic, 70’s, Vampire.
What is the most precious thing in your wardrobe?
My handmade rhinestone leather moto jacket.
Which living person do you most admire?
It’s hard to choose just one but musically I admire artists such as Beck, Jack White, and Karen O.
What was the last book you read?
Morrissey’s autobiography.
If you could play any venue, which one would it be?
Madison Square Garden.
Where are you happiest?
I’m happiest and most free when I’m performing on stage.
Ideal 3 course meal?
Oysters from the raw bar, medium rare filet with Brussels sprouts and a NY-style cheesecake.
Who would play you in the story of your life?
Timothée Chalamet.
What’s one song that you’d like to listen to the first time again?
“Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin
An underrated song/artist you love?
A current artist that I love that I feel is personally underrated is a singer named Yola. She’s an Americana/Country artist from the UK. I’d recommend checking out her songs “Faraway Look” and “Shady Grove.”
The track that describes your coming-of-age story?
“Time to Pretend” by MGMT.
An album that you’d put in a time capsule?
The Strokes debut album, Is This It.
A lyric that you love and the song it’s from?
“…And love is a curse shoved in a hearse/Love is an open book to a verse of your bad poetry..” from LCD Soundsystem’s song “I Can Change.”
A track that reminds you of a happy moment?
“In My Life” by The Beatles.
A song that you discovered recently that you love?
“Cadillac” by Sunroom.
What’s the last song you searched for on Spotify?
“I Don’t Know What You See In Me” by Belle and Sebastian.
A song you wish you wrote?
“Thirteen” by Big Star.
Catch Micky James on tour with Joe Perry throughout April. His latest single “James Brown” is out now.
photography. Bamby
interview. Kelsey Barnes
Schön! Magazine is now available in print at Amazon,
as ebook download + on any mobile device
