Australian country music sensation and two-time Golden Guitar winner James Johnston is making waves once again with his high-energy new single 'BLAME'. This marks Johnston's first release since signing with Warner Music Australia, with support from Warner Nashville, further cementing his rising star status.
In our exclusive interview, Australian country music star James Johnston opens up about his brand-new single 'BLAME', his journey as an artist, and his excitement for his upcoming tour with Kip Moore. From his early days listening to country music in the family Land Cruiser to selling out shows across Australia, James has captured hearts with his authentic sound and relatable lyrics.
It’s so great to catch up with you James, thanks for taking the time to answer some of our questions. Everyone has their own unique introduction to music; how did it all begin for you?
“I grew up in the small country town of Wingham in New South Wales. My mum and dad sold and serviced tractors in our local community. As a kid, I used to load up in the front of the family Land Cruiser and go out to farms as they would be helping the local farmers. Music was always a part of those trips, from Hank Williams, Garth Brooks, to Lee Kernaghan. We were always playing country music. The first time I discovered I could sing was when I was only three years old, and I first was on stage at four at my local daycare centre. From that moment on, it never really stopped for me, and I always knew I wanted to be a singer. “
Can you tell us a bit about your new single ‘BLAME’, and what it means to you?
“’BLAME’ was inspired by the first night I met my wife. I was playing in the house band, and she walked up and asked me to play a Keith Urban song. As she was spinning around on the dance floor, I couldn't take my eyes off her. ‘BLAME’ is about those moments when you see someone for the first time, and you're just captivated. It might be the atmosphere, the music, or the tequila shots, but that moment has you falling for that person hard. That's how I felt that night, and six years later and three years married, I still feel the same way.”
Are there any artists, moments, or experiences that influenced you when writing ‘BLAME’?
“When writing ‘BLAME’, I wanted to fuse modern production with classic instrumentation. So, I feel I was pulling from classic artists like Willie Nelson and Hank Williams, but also modern artists like Kane Brown and Morgan Wallen.”
What is your songwriting process? How does it all come together? How would you describe your sound on ‘BLAME’?
“My songwriting process changes a lot. Some days it's me with a mate and an acoustic guitar just pouring our hearts out. Sometimes, it starts with a beat, and I just sing out loud until something comes out that feels right. Writing ‘BLAME’ was more like that. We just kept singing until I landed on something that felt right.”
How would you describe your sound on ‘BLAME’?
“’BLAME’ is a fusion of modern and classic elements tied into one song. At the core of the song, it's a feeling. I want people to just be able to let go when listening to BLAME, be it on a drive or on the dance floor. I wanted to create a song that was catchy and upbeat but still had classic country roots.”
What advice would you give to bands and artists that are just starting out and trying to find their sound?
“My advice to bands and artists who are just starting out is to just find your honest self. I think it's easy to look at other artists and try to be like them, but they already exist. Write music that makes you feel good, and there will be other people out there that feel the way you do.”
You’re about to go on tour with Kip Moore, how have you been preparing for the tour?
“I've been reworking my show a lot lately. I've been playing a lot of 1-hour 15-minute shows lately, but on tour, we have 45 minutes. So, it's exciting to just cut down my set and play my favourite songs. My shows will have a huge energy, and I can't wait to get the crowd up singing with us.”
Are there any other shows you have coming up?
“I'm also playing my first big festival in South Africa in October. This is a whole new territory for me as a musician, so I'm really excited about the unknown of what can potentially happen over there. Country music is really growing in that market, so I'm excited to be a part of the new wave of artists that are exploring it.”
Is there anything you would like to say to our audience?
“I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has been on the ride with me. I love the community that we have built. Country music fans are an incredible group of people that truly embody all the values that I hold really close to my heart: kindness, hard work, being down-to-earth, and having good hearts. I love that not only do I get to be a part of this world, but I get to raise my kids in this community, which is really special. Thank you.”
Recorded and written in Nashville, 'BLAME' showcases an evolution in Johnston's sound, seamlessly blending modern production techniques with classic country instrumentation like harmonica and steel guitar. The result is a track that's both contemporary and timeless. Combined with an infectious chorus and Johnston's signature country vocals, 'BLAME' is destined to become a sing-along favourite, whether you're in a crowded club or a dimly lit honky tonk.
Johnston is already known for his anthemic hits like 'RAISED LIKE THAT', 'GOT IT GOOD', and 'COUNTRY BOYS', but 'BLAME' represents a fresh chapter in his musical journey. It's a testament to his ability to evolve while staying true to his country roots.
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