Interview: Chicago Based Singer-Songwriter Maurice James Discusses His New Single "Angels Exist"
When did you first start songwriting and singing? Were there any artists or bands that have influenced you artistically?
Growing up in church, I was constantly surrounded by soulful, meaningful, and energetic music. And every Sunday after service, I would run over to the baby grand piano to play. This sort of naturally transformed into me creating my own melodies, which then also led to me writing my first song, "Open Up My Eyes", in 9th grade.
The choir at my high school, Providence St. Mel, ended up performing it and I then went on to write the graduation song that the choir sang my senior year. And that's when it hit me, "Man, you might actually be pretty good at this!". And I've been writing ever since. Of course, there are strong church influences in some of my music but I also am very heavily influenced and inspired by John Legend and Coldplay.
Congratulations on the release of your new single "Angels Exist"; tell us about what inspired you to write the song, and whether we can expect a music video for it next.
Thank you! When I started writing this song, my girlfriend and I had just celebrated our fourth anniversary. At that time, I was experiencing several strong emotions such as gratitude and wonder, but most of all, love. In reflecting on my relationship with her, it hit me that I've been fortunate enough to love someone who loves me back truly. Out of that realization came the words that became "Angels Exist." I am also working on visuals, so be on the lookout for that!
Will "Angels Exist" be featured on an upcoming EP or album? If so, what can you tell us about the project?
I don't currently have plans to feature it on an upcoming project, but I am looking to release a long form project in the near future.
What are you most proud of with your debut EP, "Rear View", which was released in 2020?
I'm definitely most proud of the fact that I stayed true to my artistic self. Listening back to "Rear VIew", each song is a part of who I truly am, regardless of what is considered popular or hot right now. I'm very proud to be able to say that!
With "Angels Exist" now released, what is next for you musically?
I'm currently working on a new single that I am working to release early 2022!