The ability to one’s own identify while evoking the talents of the past is a rare feat, yet 13 year old Pennsylvania native Bailey James has mastered this craft. Unknowingly finding a balance between familiarity and individuality, James is breaking onto the music scene with her debut single, “Texas Swing” off of her forthcoming debut album Where It All Begins.
An enticing tune that will make you want to swing your partner around the dance floor, James’ demeanor radiates through her vocals – she’s sweet and demure, yet powerful in her own craft. The maturity in her voice is astounding and with yodeling, belting and strong crescendos, James is reminiscent of a young LeAnn Rimes. So while most counterparts are heading towards a more pop-country feel, James is setting herself apart – she embodies the sounds traditionalists crave and references contemporary listeners can identify with.
Bailey: I am very nervous but also very excited. I think “Texas Swing” is probably my favorite single off my EP which is why I’m glad it was the first single because it can…. “Texas Swing” I feel like all age groups could enjoy it. But also you can dance to it and have fun.
TCN: So being only 13, how are you finding balance between doing school, doing friends, doing music, recording, performing?
Bailey: I don’t think I’ve found a really good balance but I just work as hard as I can and I don’t get any sleep because usually I go to school, then I come home and hang out with my friends, and then I do my homework and by that time it’s like 1 am and I’m like “Oh my gosh what I am I doing?”
TCN: When did you realize that you wanted to perform? Did it start off as just singing in the microphone? How did it happen?
Bailey: I think it happened when I finally got the courage to sign up for my talent show in 4th grade and I had been practicing the whole year and I got in and then I was like “Oh maybe they do like me! Maybe I could do this!” And that’s what really started my love for music.
TCN: So being from Pennsylvania, what made you love country? What brought you to the countryside?
Bailey: Well my dad is originally from Texas and my whole family would always sing country songs. They wouldn’t sing what was on the radio. And my dad would show me Hank Williams and Johnny Cash and stuff like that and I’m like “Well who are they? What is this music?” And so that’s how I really found a love for country music.
TCN: Besides Johnny Cash and Hank Williams, whom would you say has been fundamental as an inspiration?
Bailey: Probably Patsy Cline and Tammy Wynette. I love their sound. But lyric-wise, it would probably be Taylor Swift because she was the only one that was really helping the teens.
TCN: Where It All Begins. Tell us what you’re most proud about with this EP. Obviously it’s a compilation of your songs which is a piece of you.
Bailey: I think if you want to listen to one song it would be “Over the Moon.” I think all ages would like it and it’s about a first love and a lot of people – that’s one of the best feelings I think. And I have some really high notes in it. I love that but it’s kind of a ballad. It’s one of the only ballads on Where It All Begins so it is my second favorite.
TCN: So where does it go from here? What aspirations do you have for your career?
Bailey: I’m hoping that people, teens, anyone enjoy my music and that they can relate to it and maybe it could help them through whatever they’re going through. And I’ve always had this goal to win Entertainer of the Year – to be the youngest person to win Entertainer of the Year. We’re going to middle schools and elementary schools and we are using the “Leader In Me” Program. It showcases my career and what I’m doing. So we’re using that and we’re doing concerts for the kids and it’s been really fun.
For more information on Bailey James, visit her official website or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Youtube.