Casey James: Proud of Texas Hill
Welcome to episode #50 of The Lone Star Plate podcast! It’s time to celebrate, so we start this episode by sharing the Top 5 behind-the-scenes anecdotes that happened over the course of making this podcast, that you haven’t heard before.
My guest today is Casey James, an amazing musician from Texas, who once was a finalist in The American Idol, and today is an independent recording artist, a happy family man and a member of the Texas Hill trio.
Casey spent a lot of time in his early career playing gigs across Texas, sometimes performing nearly every night of the year. He played guitar and performed live extensively, honing his skills on stage and building a bulletproof blues-inspired sound that reflects resilience and emotional strength. He has opened for notable acts such as Sugarland, further expanding his exposure.
Texas Hill is a band that gathers Casey and two contestants of The Voice, Craig Wayne Boyd and Adam Wakefield. Their debut single Darkest Sky has just come out and I love it!
We chat about literally everything, from being a proud Texan, to his experience of the Covid-19 pandemic, his relationship to music-making as a skill and as an art, and faith in life and people. Casey strives to connect with the listener through authentic storytelling, and his writing process is essential for self-expression and reconnecting with his roots. He wrote or co-wrote many of his songs, and his albums include originals that showcase his personal expression and authenticity. For Casey, playing music feels required for his personal fulfillment.
Throughout his journey, Casey has learned valuable lessons that have shaped his confidence and artistry. His discography includes significant singles like "Fall Apart" from his early album, with releases such as an album in March and another single or album announced in October. He spent nine months on American Idol and several more months in promotion and development phases. In his early years, he got his first guitar at age 13 and played an extensive number of gigs in a single year. After his time with the label, Sony opted not to release his planned second studio album, leading to his independent path.
I felt our conversation could go on forever, and I’d be happy to welcome Casey back some day for another interview. So sit back and enjoy!
“I’d rather risk dying than risk not living.” - Casey James
Introduction
Casey James is a renowned American singer, songwriter, and guitar player whose soulful voice and masterful guitar skills have earned him a dedicated following. As an independent recording artist, James has carved out a unique space in the music world, blending blues, country, and rock influences into a sound that is distinctly his own. Over the years, James has released a string of successful singles and albums, captivating listeners with his heartfelt songwriting and dynamic performances. His journey from a small-town musician to a critically acclaimed artist is a testament to his passion for music and his commitment to authenticity in every note he plays.
The Journey Begins: Introduction to Music Career
Casey James’ musical journey began in his early teens, when he first picked up a guitar at the age of 13. Growing up in Texas, he was surrounded by a rich tapestry of musical influences, from the soulful sounds of blues to the storytelling traditions of country music. James quickly realized that music was more than just a hobby—it was his calling. He formed a band and started playing in local clubs and bars, where he honed his craft as a guitar player, songwriter, and performer. These formative years in Texas not only shaped his musical style but also instilled in him the importance of being an independent artist, allowing him to stay true to his creative vision and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Rising to Fame: Early Success and American Idol
Casey James’ big break came when he auditioned for the ninth season of American Idol, where his talent and charisma quickly made him a fan favorite. Finishing as the third place finalist, James gained national recognition and a platform to launch his career. Following his success on Idol, James released his debut single, “Let’s Don’t Call It a Night,” and his self-titled studio album, which featured standout tracks like “Crying on a Suitcase” and “The Good Life.” Although he was initially signed to Sony, the label ultimately opted not to move forward with his planned second studio album, leading James to split ways with the company. This pivotal moment pushed him to embrace life as an independent artist, giving him the freedom to release music on his own terms and continue building his career outside the traditional label system.
Crafting the Sound: Music Style and Influences
Casey James’ music is a vibrant fusion of blues, country, and rock, drawing inspiration from legendary artists such as Albert Collins, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and ZZ Top. His guitar playing is at the heart of his sound, characterized by expressive solos and a raw, emotional edge. As a songwriter, James channels his personal experiences into his songs, creating music that resonates with listeners through its honesty and relatability. His second album, “Strip It All Down,” released in 2017, received critical acclaim for its soulful vocals, intricate guitar work, and authentic storytelling. The album’s diverse range of songs showcases James’ growth as an artist and his ability to blend genres seamlessly, making each track a unique listening experience.
Pride of Texas Hill: Band and Collaboration
Proud of his Texas heritage, Casey James often weaves elements of his home state’s musical traditions into his work. His collaborative spirit shines through in projects like Texas Hill, where he joins forces with fellow musicians such as Adam Wakefield. Together, they create a powerful blend of country and blues, bringing a fresh energy to the stage and studio alike. James’ band plays a crucial role in shaping his live performances, with each member contributing to the dynamic sound that fans have come to love. These collaborations not only enhance his music but also foster a sense of camaraderie and connection, both within the band and with audiences across the country.
Faith and Personal Values
Faith and personal values are central to Casey James’ life and music. As an independent artist, he has always prioritized authenticity, using his songs to share messages of hope, perseverance, and staying true to oneself. James believes in the power of music to uplift and inspire, and he strives to create songs that resonate with listeners on a personal level. His commitment to his craft and his unwavering sense of purpose have allowed him to maintain creative control over his work, ensuring that every album and single reflects his vision and values. Through his music, James continues to build a community of fans who are drawn to his genuine spirit and heartfelt storytelling.
Time Stamps:
4:15 - Episode #50 intro and Top 5 behind-the-scenes anecdotes.
16:30 - Thank you to the podcast team.
24:45 - Where Casey Jame grew up in Texas.
28:40 - Where he lives now and the story of his band, Texas Hill.
34:55 - Why he is proud of being a Texan.
36:49 - Casey’s experience of participating in the American Idol.
46:00 - The importance of having a good team around you.
53:00 - Casey’s experiences of loss and death and how he is dealing with it.
55:08 - How the COVID-19 epidemic has affected him.
1:01:00 - Casey’s new song, the recording experience, and his view of faith and hope.
1:19:57 - How it is to record cooking shows.
1:23:50 - What’s the situation like now in Tennessee with the pandemic?
1:31:25 - Why it is hard to keep consistency in life as a musician and how to navigate around it.
Resources:
Texas Hill on YouTube
Texas Hill on Facebook
Texas Real Food
Connect with Casey James:
Connect with Patrick Scott Armstrong:
https://youtu.be/LiIer3lGLCw