Toronto’s James Baley is a JUNO-winning music creator and multi-disciplinary artist whose radiant energy continues to establish him as a distinctive and magnetizing performer. Sharing compelling stories through his vulnerable lyrics, James combines his R&B, gospel, and electronic influences to create soulful reflections and exuberant dance tracks for the church, club, and vogue ballroom. In 2021, James released his first two singles in four years (“Saviour” and “On My Mind”), was credited as a co-writer/co-producer on July Talk’s JUNO-winning album, Pray For It, and will also be performing at Pride Toronto’s 40th anniversary closing ceremony on June 27.
Is there an LGBTQ2S film, TV series, book, play, music, artwork, or person – that (or who) has resonated with you and you would recommend to others to explore?
Films – “Paris Is Burning“, “The Queens“, and “KIKI”
TV shows – “POSE“, “Legendary“, “Shine True”
Artists – Rashaad Newsome, Juliana Huxtable, and Jah Grey
Musical artists – Bjork, Nakhane, Anohni, and Laura Mvula (just to name a few)
Is there a specific subculture or scene that has long influenced you?
The international and Kiki ballroom scenes – for over five years, the ballroom scene has been a community that has given me an extended chosen family and a space to express myself and explore my queerness through art and competition.
What gave you the desire to pursue music as a career and what in your process would you pass on as a tip to someone considering the same?
The support from my family and community over the years has been very affirming and gave me the push I needed to follow through on my passion to create and pursue a musical existence.
Believing in yourself and your abilities is the most important tip anyone in a creative field can receive, but truly acknowledging your ability and having faith in your pursuits is a lifelong process. Surrounding yourself with passionate folks who want to see you win is also key.
Photo Credit: Joshua Rille and Jorian Charlton