For Bianca, music has always been a means of transforming heartbreak and pain into strength and freedom.
“I don’t think I consciously wrote songs about empowerment, but there is a message of overcoming, of finding hope on the other side. That’s an undercurrent in all my songs,” she explains, adding that although she typically draws on personal experience in her songwriting: “My mission is to inspire others to live their life, and their dreams, to the fullest.”
Growing up in Montreal with her Italian father and mother of UK descent, she glamorized the wild, free lifestyle of the Italian and French Riviera and the swinging rock ’n’ roll scene of 1960s London. She was constantly singing, she adds, developing her voice by singing along to the classic records spinning on the family’s turntable. “I dreamed of living in London, driving to Paris or the south of France, and playing shows with a killer backing band. That’s the dream that built this album.”
How would you describe your music?
It’s a mix of soulful pop with 1960’s Motown and British inspiration.
What about your music is rebellious, unconventional, or unusual?
My whole vibe is a bit rebellious – I’m recording using real instruments and musicians, unlike a lot of current pop which relies on samples or loops. I stand for empowerment, self-love and want to inspire others to feel the same!
Who would you most like to collaborate with?
I would love to work with Mark Ronson or Greg Kurstin – they are both incredible producers! Greg produced songs on Adele’s album 25 and her single “Easy On Me”, Mark produced “Back to Black” for Amy Winehouse.
If you could go open a show for any artist, who would it be?
I’d love to open for Harry Styles or Paloma Faith.
What is one message you would give to your fans?
LOVE YOURSELF – you are unique and powerful beyond measure.
What would you be doing right now if it weren’t for your music career?
I’m also a professional voice actor – I love recording for animated movies.
What is the best advice you have been given?
Never give up on your dream – you only lose if you decide to quit. Just keeping going!
What is next for you?
I’m arriving in London on June 30th to promote my upcoming debut album which comes out Aug 4th and meet my British record label team in person. I’m also currently writing & recording the following album already, planning a music video, and performing on radio stations in Europe.
Toronto’s Bianca James sets new boundaries in ‘Black & Blue’ out now
“I went on thinking I could change you,” the Toronto performer echoes over haunting organ and thunderous claps. “But now I know, our love is cold.” On the urgent yet contemplative ‘Black & Blue’, Bianca James refuses to settle for a dead-end reality.
Following her summery retro-pop debut single ‘Monaco’ and intricate power ballad ‘Till I Remember’, Bianca continues to build momentum by unveiling yet another side to her artistry with ‘Black & Blue’s bold production courtesy of JUNO Award-nominated & Platinum certified producer Thomas McKay in Toronto and at The Kinks’ iconic Konk Studios in London, UK.
“It’s about drawing a line and setting boundaries, knowing the short-term pain of a relationship ending is better than putting up with prolonged emotional suffering,” – Bianca James.
‘Black & Blue’ blends modern production with throwback elements, a driving rhythm section, and girl-group backing vocals inspired by Motown records – to an empowering effect. The single follows from Bianca’s deeply layered and intimate gospel power ballad ‘Till I Remember’, which found placements in Apple Music’s Best New Songs, New Music Daily, Neu in: Pop and Breaking Pop.
“Bianca James was born to make music.” – CLOUT
“Classic and timeless.” – Melodic Magazine
“Canadian pop that your playlist truly needs.” – The Honey Pop
“Soulful vocal harmonies.” – Music Crowns
Stream Black & Blue https://slinky.to/BlackAndBlueBJ
