James Artissen: The Artist Formerly Known As…
- Muzikscribe
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
Grammy nominated singer-songwriter-producer-engineer-label owner James [née Worthy] Artissen initially opted to pursue a career in music following a chance encounter meet up at Webster Hall in New York City with none other than the late, great King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson.
After later relocating from The Big Apple to ATL, Artissen then went on to earn a bachelor's degree in audio production from The Art Institute of Atlanta.
In 2017, King James Worthy transitioned from behind the boards to in front of the mic when he joined a short lived duo, Kings X2, releasing their premiere entry, "Wine For Me,” which peaked at #10 on the US Billboard Hot Single Sales Chart for 5 weeks. However, the group would eventually disband that following year.
The Whodini featured "Move," James’ debut solo single, arrived shortly thereafter, followed by his critically acclaimed EP, Blu Leisure, in January ‘19.
You currently have a pair of joint singles; “One More Thing,” a collabo with Robin S. and the Khujo Goodie assisted “All Night,” out now — Talk to me a lil bit about both of these tracks…
I wanted to share a mixture of genres to introduce my rebrand to the world. "One More Thing" showcases a House, Electronic feel discussing not wasting someone's time, while giving them what they need. "All Night" is more R&B, Hip Hop influenced, discussing wanting to give pleasure, but not wanting to fight all the time.
Now tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for the artist formerly known as James Worthy?
I became interested in music around age 13-14. There was music always in the house from different styles of genre, so that inspired me to not only pay attention to the art of music but how to actually make it. In school, I was always good with words and sentences, so I would always write in my notebook lyrics that I thought were clever, and cool, while rhyming them. After a while, I really began learning the art of songwriting.
You’re originally from Queens, New York, correct? So growing up in ‘The World’s Borough,’ who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?
Yes. There were so many that I deemed musical inspirations to me; from A Tribe Called Quest, Whodini, Kanye West, and etcetera. Growing up, I loved the arts so anything or anyone who shared the same views I connected with. Living in Atlanta also opened up a new sense of artistic expression, as well, within the culture in which I've had some great opportunities given to me along the way.
Also, along with both compositions comes a changing of your moniker — What actually prompted this decision?
For a while, I have been fighting against creating my own space with someone who shared the same name as me. At most times, people got confused between the two of us. It worked for some time, but I decided to let that go and create something new and fresh that can only be me.
That said, how do you describe and / or define the style of music that you create and / or perform?
Typically, my music would be classified as R&B / Soul, and Pop, but I typically don't put myself in a box because I create all genres of music. I make what feels good to me, and let the public decide their favorites.
Now as a songwriter when you sit down to pen your lyrics, where do you draw inspiration from?
I pull inspiration from just life, and experiences I have on a daily basis. There's always options to choose from, but it's about what feels authentic to you. When I write, it comes from a place of dedication and love for what I do in any capacity.
Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?
I want people to feel and hear the authenticity while listening to the music. I've never been a person to follow other people. I've always been one to lead, and set my own paths for others to follow.
If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
There are many artists I admire. I'm interested in working with those who are open minded, and creative, and share the same work ethic as me. To name a few: Miguel, Q-Tip, Frank Ocean, Kanye West.
If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?
The Hollywood Bowl. That venue has put on some of the greatest shows I've seen, and it would be an honor to be on the stage.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of music?
Yes, and No. I enjoy the creativity that is happening, but the influx of good or bad music has diluted the market for casual listeners to find great music. We are living in a time where music can be made instantly and uploaded, which pushes the quality to the side for most.
What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
Consistency, Attention to details, and continuing to find new ways of creating.
Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?
Currently, I am seeking to grow all of my brands that bring value to the marketplace to be sustainable for not only myself, but helping other creatives with theirs. There will be other ventures in the future outside of music that will be announced as well.
Humble Sound Records is the name of your indie record label — What are your future plans and / or goals for the imprint? And, who all, besides yourself of course, makes up its artist roster?
Yes, I plan to grow the imprint to be the hub for artists and creatives, who don't really have a home to be as great as they can be. In the future, we will sign new acts in addition to the artists we currently have. Our current roster includes: Tynisha Keli, B Angie B, James Artissen, Shaynah, Sophia Habib, and we've represented many others in the past as well.
What’s an average day like for you?
I don't think I have an average day. Each day begins in different ways, which are blessings. Whatever comes my way, I accomplish them.
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans...
Direct to fans is very important. I make it a point to respond to fans via social media, because it gives them a sense of humanization from you, and that you actually care about them.
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
My favorite part is doing what I always loved to do, which is make music. My least favorite is the business and politics of it.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
There will be more no's then yes’, but never doubt your talent. Stay consistent and hungry. Eventually, that opportunity will meet you when you least expect it.
Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
Platinum albums, More Grammy Awards, World Tours, and keeping everyone around me happy and successful.
As for the immediate, what’s next for you, James?
I am currently working on my debut album, Nevermind What They Said, releasing collaborations, and continuing to produce acts. Stay tuned!
Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?
Follow me on social media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesartissen/
Any “parting” words for our readers?
Continue to watch my journey, and I love you guys.
