
José James: Jazz Innovator Coming to Belgrade for Two Special Performances Performing at BitefArtCafe on October 17th and 18th, James will present his 12th studio album, “1978”, a deeply personal work that blends jazz, soul, neo-soul, drum’n’bass, and spoken word. Known for blurring the lines between traditional and contemporary jazz, hip-hop, soul, funk, pop, and rock, James draws inspiration from musical legends such as John Coltrane, Marvin Gaye, and Billie Holiday. His live performances channel the spirit of 70s jazz-soul icons while maintaining his distinct style.
1978 is an homage to the year James was born, a time when jazz, soul, disco, and hip-hop were colliding to create something fresh. James spent five years crafting the album, calling it his “most autobiographical work to date.” Tracks like “Saturday Night (Need You Now)” and “Planet Nine” invite listeners to dance, while “For Trayvon” is dedicated to Trayvon Martin. The powerful track “38th & Chicago” expresses anger and sorrow over the murder of George Floyd, turning the Minneapolis intersection where Floyd was killed into a protest anthem—just blocks away from where James grew up.
Ahead of his upcoming concert in Belgrade, James discussed his life, career, and newest album:
Your new album “1978” is very personal and autobiographical. Could you tell us more about the inspiration behind it?
I was born in 1978, so this is a semi-autobiographical album. I’m deeply inspired by artists like Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Prince, and Stevie Wonder, who made incredible albums during that period. That was the last big era of multi-genre bands, and I’m fascinated by the merging of styles, especially in America. It was an interesting time politically, culturally, and musically. Disco was transforming into R’n’B, and in the Bronx, funk musicians were creating amazing beats. There was a whole new wave of music—punk, New Wave in New York, reggae at a global level. You also had singer-songwriters like Paul Simon and Billy Joel, and jazz icons like Quincy Jones who blended R&B, funk, and pop to create masterpieces.
Songs like “For Trayvon” and “38th & Chicago” send strong messages to society. Why did those events in particular inspire you?
I’m a Black man from Minneapolis, and I grew up just three blocks from where George Floyd was killed by the police. I could have been in his shoes or Trayvon Martin’s shoes. Honestly, I could have been killed in America at any moment. That’s the reality of being Black, even in 2024.
You were born and raised in Minneapolis, as was Prince. His first album was released in 1978. What’s your relationship with him?
We’re connected through his love of jazz and his embrace of funk. People often overlook his ability to transform as a Black man, similar to David Bowie. He was a huge inspiration to me growing up. We’re from the same city, and his father was a jazz musician, just like mine.
What do you listen for in a vocalist? What moves you in other singers’ voices?
It’s hard for me to listen to music for pleasure. For me to relax, a singer needs to be at a professional level; otherwise, I get distracted by a lack of technique, poor storytelling, or low energy. Vocal energy and intent are often underrated.
What projects are you working on now or planning for the future?
I just finished recording my newest album, “1978: Revenge of The Dragon”, which will be released in April 2025. I also wrote and starred in a kung fu film tied to the album. I’ve been working on a book called “The Future of Jazz Singing”, which includes my philosophy as a jazz singer and interviews with incredible artists like Samara Joy, Dianne Reeves, and Kurt Elling.
How would you promote your upcoming concert in Belgrade? Will it be different from your 2016 performance?
My concerts are always unique because I work with the best band. I’ve grown so much as a songwriter and artist since 2016, so the audience will experience something special. I invite everyone in Belgrade who loves jazz and modern interpretations to attend my shows on October 17th and 18th at BitefArtCafe. This concert will allow me to connect with my audience like never before.
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Information: +381 63.594.294 and +381 63.594.054

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