Anthony James is a solo trash-pop artist out of Maryland. He is an unsigned rising star in the pop-punk scene. You can check out his latest single “Red Light Lovin’” right here on All Punked Up!
We sat down with Anthony James to chat about how he is coming back to the scene after a six-year break from creating music. Check out our interview below.
Be sure to follow Anthony James on social media!
Instagram | Spotify | Apple Music
You released an EP in 2014 and haven’t dropped anything until 2020. What happened during those 6 years? How did you grow as a musician and person?
College happened. I went to school to become a registered dietitian. I originally released music just for fun. I never considered music a realistic long-term career option. After finishing school and working for a couple of years, I started to realize how much I actually missed playing music. In January of 2020, I decided to start releasing songs again. I’d love to eventually make a name for myself, but if it doesn’t happen, at least I’m still doing what I love.
What genres do you listen to? What genres do you consider your music?
My favorite genre would have to be early 2000’s pop-punk (Blink 182 and New Found Glory), but I will listen to anything from rap to country. As far as my music, I would love to consider it pop-punk, but I feel that most would argue that it’s just pop. I prefer “Trash-Pop.” My goal is not to have a voice like Whitney Houston, or to write intricate music like Beethoven, or to have lyrics like Shakespeare. I want to have a “cool” punk rock voice, with simple relatable lyrics, and the catchiest nursery rhyme melodies anyone has ever heard.
What musicians inspire you?
Tom DeLonge will forever be my idol and inspiration.
What songs do you have on repeat right now?
Right now, I’ve actually been playing the new All Time Low album. I like the songs “Monsters” and “Clumsy” a lot.
You’ve dropped 3 singles so far this year. Can we expect more singles? An EP? What do you have on deck?
Unless I get picked up by a label, I will just keep releasing songs as I write them. I’m currently working on a new song called “That’s Alright.” After this COVID-19 lockdown ends, I plan to start performing live around the Washington D.C./Maryland/Virginia area (where I live).
COVID-19 has obviously gotten in the way of plans for music videos, shows, etc. What are you doing during this time to stay safe and occupied? Are you working on any music?
Yes, I’m working on as much music as I can right now. I’ve also enjoyed working out and being in the sun (away from people). I will admit, I’m ready for life to be normal again.
Is there anything else you want to say to your fans or All Punked Up readers?
I would like to thank All Punked for reaching out to me. This is officially my first interview. I hope some of you will follow my journey as a “new” artist, and I’m looking forward to meeting some of you once I start playing shows. Stay safe, thanks for reading.
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