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Christian St. James
His radio single 'Long Distance' has struck a chord in listeners, worldwide, and it's been a fast-paced ride for this talented singer-songwriter ever since.

Born in Chicago and living his dream, singer-songwriter Christian St. James’ story is part blues song, part fairy tale and part inspirational testimonial. The blues part is the story of a Midwest boy, born to a Cherokee Indian father and British American mother finding his way in the world and pursuing the American dream. The fairy tale part is the story of a man who suffered a burst aorta, was given little to no chance for survival, and beat the odds to come back stronger than ever. The inspirational part is the story of never giving up and believing that God has a plan for each of us and that we can never quit on that plan. In Christian’s words, “No one can convince me there is no shot for me and my music. God saved me for a reason and this is it- to make my music.” Christian uses his life experiences to create his songs and over the years has developed a unique vocal style. The honesty in his presentation are front and center on his debut album, the aptly titled ‘Alive in Me.’ Reporter Alexis Adams caught up with Christian recently to learn more about this artist and his extraordinary journey.

ALEXIS: When did you first discover your love of music?
CHRISTIAN: I believe I was 7 or 8 years old. My mom told me that was when she first saw me showing interest in music.

ALEXIS: Your song 'Long Distance' has been a big hit on radio for its third straight month. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
CHRISTIAN: I thought it was amazing. ‘Long Distance’ was my follow up song to ‘Bobbie Jean’. It stayed at #1 for three weeks, but was on the charts for eight months with Cashbox Magazine. Each day things just get more and more exciting. After 23 years I’ve certainly realized dreams do come true. Believing is 90% of how great things can happen.

ALEXIS: What was the inspiration behind 'Long Distance'? Was there someone in particular you were writing about?
CHRISTIAN: The idea came from a soldier I had met who had been serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. He told me about his girlfriend and how much he missed her. I realized then how many others in the military felt that very same way. That inspired the lyrics ‘let this road lead me back to you’. I believe it shows that love is greater than hate and it always will be.

ALEXIS: Would you say that the mood of your other songs is in the same vein as 'Long Distance'?
CHRISTIAN: No, the mood of my other songs is all very different.

ALEXIS: How would you characterize yourself as a musician? (ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving...)
CHRISTIAN: I’m very serious about my music. I live it and breathe it. I believe we’re all given a gift. You know what that gift is by what God puts in your heart.

ALEXIS: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
CHRISTIAN: Although I didn’t come from a musical background, I believe that God put the love for it in me. I can’t imagine life without music in it.

ALEXIS: What do you find most rewarding about being a musician? What do you find most challenging?
CHRISTIAN: The entire creative process has to be the most rewarding. Building an idea from nothing and watching it become something. I find the most challenging thing is to get heard by radio and the right people to get your music to the rest of the world. Nepotism runs far too deep and creative works should never be based on who has the most money. Unfortunately that seems to be the way it works. That’s why I’m so very thankful for the Akademia Music Awards.

ALEXIS: Who are your role models in music?
CHRISTIAN: My role models in music are anyone who came up the hard way by paying their dues and who do it for the love of it. I have little respect for people who bought their way to the top, which gives me the honor to say I have a lot of role models.

ALEXIS: What advice would you give to young, aspiring musicians out there who are unsure and need guidance?
CHRISTIAN: To those who are just starting out I would say, if you think this is going to happen overnight, you’re in the wrong business. Be patient, honest, love what you do and believe it will happen. Don’t be discouraged. Associate yourself with good honest people. Listen to your heart, not to anyone else. You’ll find what you’re looking for. Study and know your craft. Work at it daily. Strive to be the best you can be. Never look back on your failures but look forward to your success. If you do that, your destiny awaits you.

ALEXIS: What's next for Christian St. James? Is there a new single in the works? If so, what can you tell us about it?
CHRISTIAN: I feel this is just the beginning. My next single, ‘Fade to Black’, was picked by record company Euro World Records. After winning best song for ‘Fade to Black’ this is what they said, ‘Christian displays characteristic, depth and sophistication through provocative lyrics and unpredictable instrumental arrangements to deliver this chilling reminder of what truly matters’. Bruce Elrod, CEO of Cashbox Magazine, agreed with this quote and said this song was a potential hit and everyone would be able to relate to it.

ALEXIS: I look forward to hearing it! Thanks for taking time out to share your story. I wish you continued success and good luck!



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