#MusicExchange: Lance James
3 Jul 2019
South African country music icon Lance James has released a career-defining album that's set to earn him new fans and provide a powerful reminder to the longstanding followers of his unmatched musical prowess.
Titled Swan Song, the 14-track album takes in nearly 100 years of songwriting, starting with “Trouble Will Soon Be Over”, written in 1927 by Blind Willie Johnson, and moving through to Toby Keith’s “Don’t Let The Old Man In” – which was written in 2018 for the Clint Eastwood movie, The Mule.
Along the way, this landmark album moves through classic rock, Americana, blues, pop and, of course, the country music that has defined his solo career since the release of Please Come To My Partyin 1961. “Don’t Let The Old Man In” is the first single off Swan Song. I spoke to James in Johannesburg, last week.
What does music mean to you?
It’s the fabric that holds me together, the thread that runs through my life.
What is the most enjoyable aspect of your work?
Seeing the audience groove along to the songs.
What drives you: ego or humility?
A bit of both I guess.
Any funny moments on stage?
Crown beauty queen, to hand crown on the cushion, rolled over the stage, dented.
What is your most treasured possession?
My collection of model cars.
It’s your round, what are you drinking?
Brandy and Coke.
Dream gig to do?
Perform at Carnegie Hall.
What makes you stand out?
My range of Stetson hats.
Nicknames?
Big Daddy.
If you were not a musician, what would you do?
Motor mechanic.
Pick five words to describe yourself?
Emotional, stubborn, loving, caring, demanding.
Favourite fashion garment?
My Nashville stage jacket.
Give us some real proper slang and what it means
Jurra – amazement.
Your greatest achievement?
My two daughters – Dionne and Chanel.
What do you complain about most often?
Cold weather.
What is your fear?
Forgetting lyrics on stage.
On stage, I tend to?
Immediately connect with the audience.
The best life lesson you have been taught?
To be humble.
Do you do charity work and, if you do, what do you do?
I do a lot of charity gigs for old-age homes, the terminally sick and children homes.
Wishes and dreams?
Family happiness and a gold record for “Swan Song”.
Social media
