Born with the last name Taylor-Watts in 1997, young James started his career as a drummer, but by the time he was in his early teens, he also mastered the guitar and piano. By then, he began uploading cover songs to YouTube and playing acoustic gigs in local pubs.

These online covers caught the ears of Canadian super star Shawn Mendes and eventually of Island Records, where he signed in 2015. A year later, the EP First Impressions came out, including his breakthrough hit When You Love Someone.

Eight more singles followed, which resonated mostly in Sweden. With his full-length debut album Chapters around the corner, James TW releases a track that sounds like his next potential European hit: Big Picture.

For more great new music, follow the constantly updated Carte Blanche Music playlist.

Werner Schlosser

I’m a music industry watcher and journalist. Worked at a CD club, a record store chain and was editor in chief of an entertainment trade magazine. Have been in the radio business since 1987, producing and presenting shows. Was music director of several stations. Also, I developed the European Border Breakers Chart, Music Moves Europe Talent Chart and ESNS Chart. CEO of Werner Bros. tekst | uitleg.