Phoenix based multi instrumentalist, vocalist and producer Henry James introduces himself in full with debut album Love Should Be So Easy, a deeply personal nine track exploration of romance, vulnerability and learning how to love.
Entirely self produced, the record moves effortlessly between R&B, soul, jazz and funk, with James’ velvet smooth vocals sitting at the heart of a warm and richly detailed sound. Opener “Brand New” sets the tone with funky bass, jazz coloured piano and subtle brass, while “Songs to Write” taps into the silky feel of early 2000s R&B. Elsewhere, the ethereal “Want You Bad (Interlude)” leads into the futuristic funk of “Funky Alien Girl”, before “Play My Favourite Song” delivers one of the album’s most infectious grooves.
The latter stages dig deeper emotionally, particularly on the melancholic “Unlovable”, before the title track closes proceedings with an ambitious two part finale that shifts from buoyant soul and funk into a sultry electronic groove.
“This album reflects a time in my life when I was learning how to love and be loved,” James explains. “The result is a deeply personal body of work that I hope others can connect with.”
With “Play My Favorite Song” already passing 100,000 streams and “Brand New” picking up Spotify playlist support, Love Should Be So Easy feels like a confident opening statement from an emerging artist with plenty more to offer.
Henry James sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
I remember being a kid, and my parents got me a super cheap used guitar on ebay. I didn’t even know how to tune it, but I would learn songs by ear. I played it for months before I realized it wasn’t in standard tuning. We took it to get the strings replaced and tuned, then suddenly I couldn’t play any of the songs I taught myself.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
D’Angelo is my biggest influence. RIP. Artists like OutKast, Erykah Badu, Kendrick Lamar, and Parliament Funkadelic inspire me, but if there’s one artist I would love to work with in the future, it would be Liv.e.
3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?
Right now, I’m working with some of my favorite producers and artists on a Love Should Be So Easy remix project. It will include guest verses on tracks from my debut project as well as complete reworks of the instrumentals. I’m so excited to have such talented people involved, and for everyone to hear it.
4. How would you describe your sound?
It feels like a warm hug. It’s full of textures that are multi-dimensional yet cohesive, and stimulating in the best way. I aim to make music that not only pushes sonic boundaries but also remains timeless. I think my favorite artists ride that line well.
5. What’s your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
I had the chance to give a shoutout to my mom at the Love Should Be So Easy release party. That was so special to me. She has supported me my whole life and throughout my entire musical journey, so I am incredibly grateful that I got to thank her on such a meaningful night, in front of so many people who have supported me.