We spoke with James Alyn about his album 2019—a project shaped by shifts in life, in sound, and in creative direction. From production struggles to lyrical intentions, and from his affection for Japanese music to anime-inspired memories, 2019 shows James’s evolving identity, one change at a time.
On the Meaning Behind 2019
Q: If you had to describe your album 2019 in just one sentence, what would it be?
James: I’d say: embrace the change. Some people don’t like change, but 2019 was the year the world shifted. For me, it was a big moment of change too—especially in my career. So the message I want to leave is: no matter what happens, look forward, and believe the change is for the better.
Songwriting Process & Production Challenges
Q: What was the most difficult track to finish on the album? What helped you finalize it?
James: Definitely “Walk Out the Door.” It was one of our earliest productions, and we were still figuring out our sound. We packed it with layers—synths, guitars, lots of textures—but it ended up overwhelming the track. What saved it was subtraction. We cut a lot of elements, only keeping the parts that really worked. That brought everything together in the end.
Q: Do you usually start your songs with melody, lyrics, or something else?
James: It really depends. Sometimes melody comes first, other times it’s the concept. I also start with instrumentals or beats—it changes from song to song.
Q: On the flip side, what was the easiest track to make?
James: “Now and Ever,” my first single. It came together very quickly because the vision was so clear from the start. It’s Beatles-inspired, very 60s, and I used a Hofner bass for that classic tone. The arrangement almost worked on the first try.
Album Flow & Identity
Q: Did you plan the tracklist from the beginning?
James: No, I didn’t write the songs in any specific order. I finished all the tracks first, and then I arranged them in a way that felt natural. The first half leans more City Pop, and the second half leans more 60s or acoustic. It made sense to group them by vibe.
Q: Your album crosses genres. What do you think is the consistent thread in your sound?
James: Probably my lyrics, melodies, and voice. Genre-wise I’m all over the place—City Pop, slow dance, indie rock—but I think the way I write ties it all together.
Musical Influences & Japanese Artists
Q: Who are your musical roots?
James: The Beatles, for sure. I also love City Pop. Recently I’ve been listening to Wave to Earth, Daniel Caesar… not sure if it shows up in my sound, but they definitely inspire me.
Q: You mentioned SIRUP earlier—is he your favorite Japanese artist?
James: Yeah, definitely one of them. I love his voice, and how he mixes genres. Even when he collaborates, his own sound still shines through. I really relate to that. I also like soul music, and that churchy, neo-soul feel—that’s why I’m Blessed came out sounding like that.
Q: Any other Japanese cultural influences you feel?
James: City Pop, definitely. And I love anime music—especially the Attack on Titan theme. And I really admire Fujii Kaze. He’s huge in Thailand, and so inspiring the way he keeps evolving.
Anime & Childhood Nostalgia
Q: You mentioned anime—what are your favorites?
James: Right now I’m into Vinland Saga, Demon Slayer, Attack on Titan, Solo Leveling. Growing up, I watched Naruto, Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokémon. I had Silver & Gold on Game Boy.
Live in Japan & Fan Experience
Q: Let’s talk about Japan. What stuck with you most from your trip here?
James: The fans. I got such a warm welcome. Last time, I played at Kawasaki CHITTA, but didn’t get to explore much. Later, I visited on my own and went to Shibuya, Harajuku, Disneyland, Universal… and I want to come back soon. Next time, I’m definitely hitting the music stores—guitars, synths, everything.
Visual Storytelling & Positivity
Q: Your recent MV for “What You Waiting For” has a powerful visual message. What’s the idea behind it?
James: The message is simple—live your life to the fullest. In the video, everything’s burning and chaotic, but the feeling is: don’t stress about the past or future, just enjoy the present. That’s how I want people to feel when they hear the song.
Q: Is positivity always central to your lyrics?
James: Yes. I try to make the world a better place—three minutes at a time. I want people to feel a little lighter, a little happier, after hearing my songs.
Recommendations & What’s Next
Q: If someone’s listening to your music for the first time, what song would you recommend?
James: “Show Me Your Love.” It’s bright and works in any mood. I think it’s a great first impression. I just want people to feel love—and maybe send a little love back, too.
Q: If you could collaborate with any three artists, who would they be?
James:
- PREP – I just listened to their new album, and I’d love to make something with them.
- Paul McCartney – Dream scenario. I’d love to try something wild—City Pop with Paul? Hip hop? Why not.
- SIRUP – I’d love to work with him again. We’ve collaborated before, and I’d be happy to do it again anytime.
Q: What’s next for you? Any new songs or projects coming?
James: Yes! I’m working on something new right now. Can’t say too much yet, but I’ve been experimenting a lot. New sounds, new ideas… I’m excited to show you all soon.
Message to Japan
Q: Lastly, any message for your Japanese fans?
James:
To all my fans in Japan—thank you so much.
Thank you for listening to my music, for singing along, for supporting me. I felt so welcomed and inspired when I visited. I’m working on something special now, and I can’t wait to bring it to you.
See you again soon.
Through 2019, James Alyn doesn’t just reflect—he resets. Whether navigating change, layering influences, or stripping down excess, his songwriting stays grounded in care. Care for the listener, for the moment, and for whatever comes next. And if it comes with love—or even a little bit of fire—he’ll be there, singing through it.