James Christian best known as vocalist with House Of Lords and his solo output expands on his singing career and what the future holds with regard to new music and live gigs.
Who were your influences in the early days and have you always wanted to be a singer?
Robert Plant was the first vocalist who changed everything for me, although I don’t sound anything like him now, but there was a time I was in a band that did half the set of Led Zeppelin songs.
Have you ever auditioned for the vocal spot in any notable bands?
Yes, “House Of Lords”😊
You have appeared on a number of albums. Do you have a favourite and why?
Well Robin’s CDs of course and also Jeff Canatta. The Arc Angel CD was a great record.
Do you still get the same buzz out of singing live as you did in the past?
Yes I still do, although after finishing work on a project I don’t even wanna look at the studio. But that passes quickly.
Some vocalists are on strict dietary regimes or gargle with special liquids. How have you kept your voice in tip top shape all these years?
I’ve been blessed and cursed! My voice still has a lot of strength, but age seems to have taken agility that I miss. I was always used to just going to the mic and letting it rip, but now I’m a bit more careful because of endurance factors.
Are there any musicians that you have not worked with, but would like to in the future?
I’ve worked with many great musicians and I would not know where to begin for a bucket list. Let’s start with Robert Plant!!!
Is there any unreleased recorded material from the early days of House Of Lords that could be released?
It’s already released it’s called “House Of Lords Anthology”. I never knew it even existed until 5 or 6 years ago!
Do you have any plans to release another solo album?
Right now I’m really concentrating on the new House Of Lords CD, but a solo CD would always be welcome in my house.
Have you ever thought of making a joint album with your wife, Robin Beck?
Many times, but it really has to be special and not just something as a marketing ploy.
With the live circuit opening up again, is there a possibility that we could see you performing some live shows in the UK?
Look for 2024 to be very active for House Of Lords with some new added and original members.
You appear to do some production work, is this something you enjoy?
I love production, I could do this all day and night.
Do you have anything in the pipeline at the moment that you would like to share?
Yes, the new House Of Lords CD for 2024 will be another special addition to our catalogue.
The songs are already taking shape and will not disappoint.
Interview by Stuart Dryden
