For Liverpool-born singer-songwriter Kris James, music has always been a lifelong calling. Now, with the release of his second studio album 'Pixelated Heart', James delivers his most personal and polished work yet: a fourteen-track journey that traces the bruises and beauty of love, ambition, and everything in between.
'Pixelated Heart' pairs bold pop production with raw, confessional lyricism. Its centrepiece 'Smashed My Own Record' finds him reflecting on heartbreak with striking clarity, a vulnerable anthem that captures the duality of disappointment and resilience. It’s a record built on contrasts: euphoria and fragility, ambition and self-doubt, all held together by Kris’s unmistakable voice and unflinching honesty.
So with the new record out now, we caught up with Kris James to talk about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Much to my mum’s despair, I used to play the trumpet at school and I absolutely loved it. I’ve still got it somewhere, but I don’t think my neighbours would appreciate me picking it up again!
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I grew up surrounded by The Beatles, being from Liverpool, that’s almost inevitable! I also loved The Carpenters, Elton John, and a lot of old-school jazz: Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra… timeless voices that shaped how I hear melody and emotion in music.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album I ever bought for myself was A Rush of Blood to the Head by Coldplay, back in 2002. I still remember hearing “The Scientist” for the first time and it just hit me in the gut.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
White Christmas. It’s one of those songs that’s truly stood the test of time - everyone knows it, and it still gives you that same feeling no matter how many times you hear it.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I’ve definitely got my habits. Before a session I like to go quiet for a bit, just me, my thoughts, and a dangerously strong black coffee. I think it helps me tune in emotionally before I start writing. Most of my songs come from real experiences, usually love or heartbreak, so I like to sit with that for a while before diving in.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I’m obsessed with Olivia Dean. She’s charismatic, elegant, beautiful, and ridiculously talented — her music just makes me smile. She’s the real deal.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Olivia Dean would be top of my list, that would be incredible. But OneRepublic would be a dream too; their live energy is something else.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Touring and meeting people. Getting on stage and connecting with an audience, that feeling never gets old. It’s the best part of what I do.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Social media. You have to be on it constantly to build and maintain a fan base. It’s amazing in some ways, but it can also feel relentless, especially when you realise you’re competing with over 100,000 new uploads to Spotify every single day.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Never, ever give up. If you’re truly passionate about music, it never leaves you, no matter what life throws your way.
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Kris James' new album 'Pixelated Heart' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.