Today we’d like to introduce you to James Brabham.
James, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I grew up in Varnville, South Carolina, which is a small town, maybe 40 minutes outside the coast of Beaufort, SC. The only reason you might recognize the name is if you’ve heard of Dwight Smith, who played for the Chicago Cubs, California Angels, Baltimore Orioles, and the Atlanta Braves. Fun fact, Forrest Gump was filmed there too. As you can imagine, being in a small town, there wasn’t much to do but ride go-carts, bikes, play sports, or pick up an instrument. My dad bought me my first drum set when I was five years old. Drums became my first instrument but weren’t my last. I also learned to play saxophone and keyboard. Later on, in life, I used this knowledge and played drums and sax in the marching band. I even played drums and keys for my dad’s quartet as well as played in church.
My dad’s love for music prompted him to build a recording studio in our back yard, where he recorded vocals and live instruments for many local artists. He tried to get me involved to learn the recording side but I wasn’t interested. The only thing I was interested in was learning how to make beats for myself and my friends. I was inspired by two of the most iconic producers Timbaland and Swizz Beatz. I wanted to learn how to make amazing music, just like them. As I developed my own sound, I began to start selling my music around the school on cassette tapes.
After one year of college at the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie, I moved to Atlanta to attend American Intercontinental University (AIU). That is where things really started to happen for me. I ended up meeting country artist, Blanco Brown. He’s the creator of Trailor Trap, a writer and producer. You would recognize him from his number one hit, “The Git Up.” Blanco introduced me to other writers and producers, Jasper and Big Reese. Working with them lead to placements with artists like Lloyd and Mario as well as independent artists like JJ Evans.
As I continue to grow as a producer, I’ve also branched out into other areas of interest. I’ve had the opportunity to produce a single for Blanco Brown, “I Need Love,” as well as DJ on tour with him, both in the U.S. and internationally. I’ve taken a leap and stepped out as an independent artist. My first single is out now, “Don’t Give Up,” featuring Genensia. It’s an electronic dance anthem that I hope inspires listeners to reach towards their purpose.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Of course not. One thing I didn’t tell you is that I flunked that first year of college before I moved to Atlanta. It’s crazy how life works and God sets you up because I may not have come to Atlanta if I wouldn’t have failed that first year. There have been long dry spells where I haven’t had regular production work or placements. I picked up a regular 9 to 5 as well as playing gigs and at churches to make ends meet. Working in this industry is definitely not for the faint of heart or quitters. You have to be able to press through and pursue your dream because it doesn’t happen immediately. It’s rare that someone blows up overnight. Most of the time, there’s years of work that’s happened before you ever know about someone.
Can you give our readers some background on your music?
I’m known for my versatility in production. I can really produce for any genre that I want to. Something that sets me apart is my ability to produce EDM, country, gospel, R&B, and pop.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I think the definition of success is taking an obstacle, facing it head-on, and learning to overcome that opposition. I want to get to the point of financial independence. I want to have the freedom to give to others freely without concern for my pockets. Success is happy at work I’m doing and not worrying about tomorrow.
Contact Info:
- Website: wwwjbrabmusic.com
- Email: jbrabmusic@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjbrab/?hl=en
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/IamJBrab
Image Credit:
Sam King (Yellow Moon Media Group), Tru Skyy (Mind Stamp Productions)
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