Rebecca James is a singer song-writer from Cardiff, who, at just 20 years old has already been featured as BBC Introducing track of the week with her single ‘On My Way’. She’s got a big future ahead of her and we were lucky enough to get five minutes with the rising star to talk all things faith, fashion and music!
How did you first get in to music?
I’ve grown up around my dad singing quite a lot so I have always been a performer from a toddler. But I found true happiness when I was singing at my piano…it’s what I love to do so when I was about 15 I played my first proper gig and I realised that’s what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
And at what stage in your life did you find faith?
I moved to London when I was 18 and I asked a friend of mine if they went to church and they invited me along. I loved it, but I think I developed a relationship with God about a year and a half ago. I’m still to this day learning so much but I think everyone does!
We completely agree, there is a lot to learn and I doubt we’ll ever be able to know it all! Have there been any specific challenges you’ve faced in your walk with God so far?
The challenges I’ve faced with God are, to me, pretty normal as a young Christian. I went through a phase of being really upset ALL the time because I couldn’t hear God, but it’s all about listening to him, I had to learn that which was really hard for me.
In what ways do you think your faith influences your music?
I’ve had times where I’m sat at my piano and just trying to listen to what God is telling me to write. There’s a few songs I have that I listen back to and think…that’s definitely him!!
How would you describe your music style?
Whenever I’m asked about my music style I say pop/R&B. I’m influenced by all kinds of music but mainly R&B, that’s my favourite genre to listen to when I think “I just wanna zone out, do nothing but listen to music” but me, as my own artist, I’m a pop/R&B singer but with a love for the piano and acoustic ballads of course!
What other artists influence you in the music industry?
There are quite a few people that have influenced me in my music, to name a few..Alicia Keys, Beyoncé, Tori Kelly, Elton John, Frank Ocean. They’re my all time faves!
As well as being totally in to music, you are quite the fashionista and we love your look! What’s your favourite current trend?
Aw thank you! I’d say netting! Like netted tops, jackets..haha net crazy. But I love my fur and denim too.
Okay, noted! Have you ever had any fashion faux pas?
Yes! I have had a couple of times where I’ve left the house and realised I have a big, pretty ladder in the back of my tights. And I’ve definitely worn my top inside out too. It’s all good though.. I think everyone has their own fashion faux pas at some point.
If you had the one thing to say to every girl in the world, what would it be?
My advice would be to focus on you. When I was younger I used to always compare myself to other girls but it is the worst thing to do. Everyone has their insecurities but you have to find what you love about you! Don’t be so harsh on yourself either.
So true! “Comparison is thief of joy.”
Rebecca was kind enough to leave us with the music video for her single “On My Way”, and as if that wasn’t enough she also has a brand new FREE mixtape, RJ Versions, which you can check out on her website. What a treat! Let us know what you think….
To keep up with all the latest, make sure you follow her on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @rebeccajamesmusic
