James Sun If Tomorrow Ever Comes Interview

James Sun has released his anticipated new single "If Tomorrow Ever Comes", an electro pop gem that shimmers with a hybrid of sounds from acoustic pop melodies to cutting edge dance drops. The song explores the feeling of heartbreak and not being able to let go and move forward, feeling trapped with no escape from the way you feel.

The track was produced by Sydney based Liam Quinn who's recently worked with Illy, Ruel, BOI and Guy Sebastian.

Speaking about his new single, James Sun says, "The song was inspired by the experience of a break up and the feeling of not wanting to alone. When I first left high school, I would struggle a lot with break ups and the reality of having to walk separate ways. This would normally result in binge drinking and going out to try and move on. Sarah and Lisa were in the studio, writing with Liam for a good couple of hours before I even arrived, as I had a family emergency happen as I was on my way up to join them. They all really carried the momentum of this track and it was the first track where I haven't been involved from the start.'

James Sun is one of Australia's most promising new artists. His music has resonated with people around the globe, scoring over 2 million streams on Spotify in his first year on the platform, as well as receiving commercial radio play Australia wide.

As for his writing process, he usually writes the hook at home and then develops the melody in the studio citing artists such as Bastille, Ed Sheeran, Calvin Harris and LAUV as inspirations.

'If Tomorrow Ever Comes' is the first of many James Sun tunes and collaborations to be released in 2020.

Interview with James Sun

Question: Can you tell us about If Tomorrow Ever Comes?

James Sun: "If Tomorrow Ever Comes" is a song that reflects on the fear of being alone, obsessing over it and thinking back on all the things that were caused by you during a break up. The line "out on my own, a song without tone" best describes the way in which I felt after a break up, thinking that I am an empty mess without someone. Luckily, I have grown out of that state of mind.


Question: Is there a particular message you hope listeners take from your music?

James Sun: I have always hoped that the stories and experiences I share through my music will engage with people who have gone through similar situations and give them clarity. I felt every time I has separated from someone, the only thing I could turn to were songs with similar experiences.


Question: How has COVID-19 influenced your music?

James Sun: It has stopped my ability to fund my music for the time being, but eventually when everything returns to normal, I should be able to continue doing what I love.


Question: What was your first performance?

James Sun: In High School, I performed in front of about 80 people at a "performing arts" night. I was so nervous but loved every second of it.


Question: Which is your favourite song to perform live and why?

James Sun: As of yet, I haven't actually performed live under my new persona. I am super keen to perform "Drunk On You" as it's my favourite track.


Question: If you could have anyone, in the world, attend a show, who would it be?

James Sun: LAUV, I absolutely love every aspect of that bloke. He is a top tier legend who isn't afraid to be himself, also he heavily inspired my style.


Question: What motivates you most when writing music?

James Sun: Writing in a group. I love hearing ideas fly around a room and seeing people interact through something we all love. I'd previously been writing alone all the time, but since I have started writing with others, the experience has been a lot more wholesome.

Question: What moment in your music career stands out the most?

James Sun: Hitting over a million streams on Spotify. The day it happened I was so happy and overwhelmed. Since starting "James Sun" I made it my 5 year goal to hit 1 million streams in total, instead I hit it just after 1 year. There is nothing more satisfying in music than knowing people enjoy your tunes.


Question: What is the biggest challenge you have faced along the way to your musical success?

James Sun: In the early stages, I lacked a tonne of motivation and failed to believe in myself. I would always feel that none of my releases were good enough and that even though the music was dope, I'd felt like I let down big time on vocals and lyrics. Luckily, I have gotten over that mind set, but it was a really toxic part in my career and made me feel like I had to compete against others. No one should ever feel that way in the music industry, we are all working alongside each other to make amazing tracks with amazing people.


Question: What's a typical day like?

James Sun: As of late, I have been just chilling at home. Either being a nerd and gaming with mates, watching some Netflix. Mainly refocusing my future and the direction I want to travel in 2021.


Question: What has been your favourite part of becoming a music artist?

James Sun: Meeting new people. The friends I have made along the way are incredible, super supportive people.


Question: What's next, for you?
James Sun: For the time being, it will be just releases until this whole Corona Virus thing has settled. I have a few more releases to come out by the end of the year so, super excited for that!


Question: Can you share your socials? (links please)

James Sun: @jamessunmusic  


Interview by Gwen van Montfort