Half Steppin’ by Sir James T Music Review

Sir James T was born and raised in Memphis Tennessee. According to his biography, this is where he developed his skills as a music producer. Moreover, his love for music, which was sparked in elementary school. Learning to play the xylophone and the congo drums were among his interests as a youth and growing up in Memphis allowed for a grounding and a love for blues. With a wide range of influences in a board spectrum of a variety of genres, Sir James T credits various artists for sparking his interests in music such as the legendary All Greene, and the One of a kind vocals of Curtis Mayfield to the outstanding multi talented Ice Cube, to the skillful Scarface. The featured track Half Steppin’ is an example of just how much talent and instrumental expertise Sir James T possesses and the beginnings of what will be a marvelous musical career.

There is no doubt that this production will hit worldwide success and would most possibly allow him to create opportunities for other artists as also expressed in his bio as being a viral part of his present career goals. ‘Half Steppin’ opens with percussions and a hook sung in a high pitched vocal set on repeat. “In a dream I never thought would come to past…” Electronic mixing of many rhythms and experiments with cymbals gives this track the amazing groove that it has, requiring several playbacks.

An amazing production of a groovy rhythm that sweeps the listener to a level of awe when listening to the beat. “Ain’t gonna let you go that easy…” A sample cleverly excerpt from an old 80’s tune from another legend Tina Marie adds to the creativity level of also experimenting with previously recorded tracks making them new once again with a NEW ERA vibe to it. Precisely fits in with hip hop and RnB while simultaneously mingling with the Indie music genre. With a catchy beat from the onset, there is no half stepping in in this track. Furthermore, “Half Steppin’ ” made me want to go outside and bump the tune in my car. That’s just how much I enjoyed it! All I can say is Sure this tune rocks!

By Linda Dawkins

Follow Linda on Twitter! @lindadz89

Exclusive Interview:

How did you hear about Exposed Vocals? What made you decide to sign up?

I 1st heard about exposed vocals on twitter from a fellow artist. I was intrigued by the various opportunities from the website

So tell us your story. Where did you grow up? What made you decide to become an artist?

I grew up in Memphis,Tn where everyone on the outside thinks its all about Elvis Presley & in reality there is a lot of talent in the city but there aren’t many opportunities .I have always been a student of art & poetry which allows me to express myself like only hip hop can. The music gave me an outlet that allowed me to go places that I wouldn’t feel comfortable to go otherwise.

How did you come up with that name? What was your inspiration behind it?

Sir James T started as a tribute to my best friend that was killed on the streets of Memphis. My best friend name was James Meeks & my nickname was Jt & after he was killed I decided to combine the two as a reminder of where we came from

What do you think about online music sharing? Do you ever give your music away for free? Why?

Well to be honest, it took me a while to get use to the social media sites because I came from an era of looking people in the eye when you talk to them & shaking their hands when you greet them. As far as giving music away for free, well I worked in several studios where my music was frequently attempted to be seized so to speak. My talent is recognizable & my passion for music is very reputable. I think in this day & age, an artist has to have some form of social prescence so the people can get a sense of who u r as an artist. Free music is not one of my categories but there is always room to network through social websites to share each others talents & contacts

Since everyone was a start-up once, can you give any smaller or local bands or artists looking to get gigs and airplay some tips?

My advice to get gigs is to be original & do what best fits your style of music. Give the people what they want & the fans will make sure u get airplay

Do you ever make mistakes during performances? How do you handle that?

I remember my 1st performance & I forgot the words so I nodded my head until the lyrics kicked backed in and I finished the song lol. Hilariious but the show must go on!!!

Do you tour? Anything interesting happen on tour that you think our readers would enjoy hearing about?

Currently Im not on tour but would love to be considering I got a lot on my plate and thirsty fans waiting….

Where do you usually gather songwriting inspiration? What is your usual songwriting process?

I usually get my inspiration from everyday life situations. I have experienced a lot in my early years & hope someone will take heed from the mistakes I have made like rebelling from my mother or carrying firearms on a daily basis to survive. Well as a producer , I usually make the track 1st then play it back to get a vibe that’ll tell me the groove

What are some really embarrassing songs that we might find on your mp3 player?

I love Beyoncé lol… I think she is killing the r&b game right now, no one can touch her!!!

If you were given half a million dollars and a year off, what would you do? How would you spend it?

With a half million dollars, I would invest in real estate. My old neighborhood was once a thriving community that is now dilapidated & crime ridden. I believe if u keep businesses in the community, the community will regurgitate itself with exploding results. My community is in desperate need of youth programs that will alleviate youth violence.

Any planned studio upgrades? What are you working with now?

Currently I am working with Cubase, motif es 6, mpc2000xl. I want to upgrade to protools & dibble & dabble in engineering with protools

How do you find ways to promote your music? What works best for you?

I like to upload my music on soundcloud & reverbnation.com and see what type of reaction I get… Usually positive results

If you could perform anywhere and with any artists (Dead or Alive) where and who would it be with? Why?

I would love to perform with Curtis Mayfield because I think he was a pioneer of hip hop & we would perform in Ferguson, Missouri because of the unrest & injustice that continues to rise. Mayfield was never afraid to address social issues period

So, what’s next? Any new upcoming projects that you want to talk about?

Right now I am developing a sound that will bring Memphis Back into the spotlight. Its all About Boss Productions!!!

If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing?

If I wasn’t making music, I think I would be a political activist or a gospel preacher spreading the word of GOD

Do you remember buying your first album? Who was it? What was going through your head?

The 1st album I ever bought was UGK’s ridin’ dirty and I couldn’t believe how much I related to the album. The city of Memphis is all about the grit n grind & this cd represented this to the fullest.

How do you juggle the rest of your responsibilities while trying to stay ahead in your music life?

The best way to put everything in perspective is to put GOD 1st & everything will find its place in your life.

What should fans look forward too for the rest of 2014 and beyond?

BOSS Productions!!! The best is yet to come!!! Thanks to all the fans Love Yall!!!

follow me on twitter @billydee365
facebook.com/sirjamest