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Parson JamesSoul-pop singer and songwriter
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Troubled Childhood and Musical Awakening
- The Influence of Gospel and Family Trauma
- Conflict and Contradiction
- Embracing Biblical Themes
- Escaping to New York City
- Discovery of His Musical Identity
- Breakthrough Success and Debut Album
- Overcoming Stigma
- Continued Success and Message of Inclusion
Troubled Childhood and Musical Awakening
Born to an interracial relationship, Parson James's childhood was marked by adversity. His white mother was cast out of her home at 16 when her parents learned of her relationship with a Black man. Reflecting on his difficult upbringing, James stated, "There were times when I drank a little bit, but I snapped out of it. There's never been any drugs. I can say that's one thing I'm most proud of." His father, once a promising basketball star, fell into addiction to crystal meth. He became physically and emotionally abusive towards James's mother and the young boy himself.
The Influence of Gospel and Family Trauma
Despite his personal struggles, James credits his family's gospel legacy for shaping his musical sensibilities. His paternal grandfather was a renowned gospel singer and Whitney Houston's godbrother. However, his grandfather abandoned the family, which James believes contributed to his father's "not knowing how to be a father."
Conflict and Contradiction
James's mixed racial heritage left him navigating conflicting attitudes from both sides of his family. "I grew up in this very strange thing where I was bi-racial, and both sides were racist. The Black side of my family was very prejudiced against my white mother." He experienced overt racism from both his maternal and paternal grandparents.
Embracing Biblical Themes
Subconsciously, James's experiences led him to incorporate biblical references into his songwriting. "It made sense because I was raised in a Pentecostal Baptist household and community," James explained. "My biggest problem was when I saw all the hypocrisy. I was just like, 'Conflict! Because I know this man is talking about this, but he's not doing any of this.'"
Escaping to New York City
At age 17, James made the life-changing decision to move to New York City, seeking opportunities to pursue his musical aspirations. Through a chance encounter, he met a vocal coach who offered him free lessons.
Discovery of His Musical Identity
Inspired by his newfound teachers and a chance meeting with a music scout, James began to explore his own unique blend of country, gospel, and soul. He delved into the music of Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and Donny McClurkin, shaping his sound.
Breakthrough Success and Debut Album
In early 2015, James signed with RCA Records and released his debut single, "Stole the Show," featuring Norwegian producer Kygo. The song became a global hit, reaching number one in several countries. James followed up with his first solo release, "Sinner Like You," produced by Elof Loelv. He also collaborated with other artists, including Audien on the track "Insomnia."
Overcoming Stigma
James has openly discussed his homosexuality, a topic explored in the song "Sinner Like You." "This is a story of how I felt when I was coming out to my mother, and knowing that my church and my community would find out and would shame me," he said.
Continued Success and Message of Inclusion
On February 5, 2016, James released the EP "The Temple," announcing that his full-length debut was slated for release the following year. In a statement accompanying the EP, he wrote, "I know you're getting drunk and high and doing whatever the heck you're doing, preaching the gospel and thinking you're going to heaven, and I'm gonna burn in hell because I'm gay. But your math ain't adding up."
James's music continues to address themes of conflict, identity, and the search for redemption. He has become a voice for those struggling with similar challenges, inspiring them through his honest and evocative songwriting.
