Big Machine Label Group artist Greylan James captivates audiences with his heartfelt lyrics, infectious melodies, and engaging performances. Recently interviewed at CMA Fest in Nashville, James shared insights into his songs, upcoming projects, and memorable moments on tour. From the backstory of “Undermine” to the deep connection behind “Young Man,” James takes us on a journey through his recent projects.
Unraveling the Inspiration Behind “Undermine”
James discussed the story behind his song “Undermine,” a collaboration with renowned songwriters Matt Jenkins and Chase McGill. Exploring the creative process, James revealed how the catchy title sparked their imaginations. As they delved deeper, the song evolved into something special, resonating with its relatable lyrics and captivating melody. With enthusiasm and pride, James expressed his excitement for the song’s success and the response it has received.
“Undermine” captures the essence of a blossoming romance with its poignant lyrics. From the moment he declared, “Put it under mine” to the bartender, setting the stage for a love story, to the captivating imagery of stolen kisses under porch lights, the song paints a vivid picture of affection and desire. As the relationship evolves, James emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and support, affirming that he won’t overshadow his partner’s dreams. With a charming blend of sincerity and vulnerability, he expresses his longing to have her by his side, through rain or shine, as the only one under his arm and in his heart. The lyrics beautifully convey the emotions of this captivating love story, making “Undermine” a standout track that resonates with listeners.
Honoring His Grandfather and Sharing a Meaningful Message in “Young Man”
The unreleased tune “Young Man,” a song close to James’ heart, pays tribute to his beloved grandfather and the profound influence he had on his life. James reflected on the invaluable advice and guidance his grandfather provided, shaping him into the person he is today. He shared, “I just wanted to honor him with a song because he was who bought me my first guitar and took me in my guitar lessons and encouraged me to move to Nashville.”
With the upcoming release of “Young Man” (date TBD), James hopes to touch listeners’ hearts and remind them of family members who’ve impacted their lives. By incorporating his grandfather’s wisdom into the song, James creates a heartfelt connection, preserving his legacy in the fabric of his music.
Co-Writing Success: “Next Thing You Know” Hitting #1
In an exciting turn of events, James recently achieved a major milestone as a co-writer on Jordan Davis’s chart-topping single, “Next Thing You Know.” This achievement showcases James’ talent as a songwriter and further solidifies his position in the music industry. The song’s success highlights James’ ability to craft compelling narratives and melodies that resonate with audiences and fellow artists alike. As his songwriting prowess continues to flourish, James proves himself as an influential force in the country music scene.
He shared, “Number 1.. I don’t even know where to start. I’ve been listening to country music on the radio since I was born. Every Sunday afternoon I’d listen to the country countdowns & wonder what it felt like to hear Kix Brooks or Lon Helton call your song the #1 song in America. I moved to Nashville when I was 18. I’d never really written a song with other people. It was pretty terrifying. Now my co-writers have become friends & brothers. Jordan Davis, Josh Osborne, Chase McGill. I’ve heard their songs in my car & head for years. I was pumped to just be writing a song with them, then it felt like a bucket list thing to have that song come out. But waking up & having the Number 1 song with these 3 guys is absolutely a dream come true. They’re legends, & they’re first class dudes that I’m proud to know. We wrote a song that we thought nobody would hear, next thing you know, it’s number damn 1.”
Stepping onto Bigger Stages and Cherishing Tour Highlights
As James continues to gain recognition, he recounts the awe-inspiring moments of performing on bigger stages during his tour. From captivating the audience at Red Rocks to sharing the stage with renowned quarterback Peyton Manning, James’s journey has been filled with remarkable memories. He expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he received from both Old Dominion’s devoted fans and the crew, solidifying his place as an artist on the rise. The experience of being embraced by the fans of established acts like Old Dominion has been a humbling and inspiring testament to the power of music.
Exciting Ventures and Anticipated Future Releases
James shares upcoming plans, including an exciting tour alongside Jordan Davis and Cole Swindell this fall. With an array of exhilarating shows lined up, James looks forward to connecting with his fans through his live performances. Additionally, he teases new music on the horizon, building anticipation among his dedicated followers. The combination of captivating storytelling and infectious melodies promises an exciting future for James as he continues to evolve as an artist.
A Rising Star Embracing His Journey
Greylan James’s interview reveals an artist who remains true to his roots, drawing inspiration from personal experiences and cherished relationships. Through his music, James creates an emotional connection with his audience, resonating with listeners on a profound level. As he embarks on new ventures, his passion for performing and connecting with fans shines through. With each step forward, James solidifies his place as a rising star in the country music scene, leaving an indelible mark through his heartfelt storytelling and captivating performances.
Connect with Greylan James
For more information about Greylan James, visit https://www.greylanjames.com/.