Interview with James Downham

James Downham’s latest track “Wine & Whiskey” isn’t a country drinking song - as you might think. Rather, this song is about having someone in your life who can do more for you than wine or whiskey ever could. After a hard day, they’re the first person you want to see and the first person you want to talk to. “You can wash away any kind of pain. You’re my remedy. You’re my wine and whiskey.”

“Wine & Whiskey” is the latest release from James' debut full-length album The Long Way Home. The track features an all-star cast of musicians, including 2022 CCMA Award Winner Mitch Jay (Steel Guitar Player of the Year, Specialty Instrument Player of the Year) and 2022 CCMA Award Nominees Mark Rynkun (Bass Player of the Year) and Rich DaSilva (Drummer of the Year). And produced by Matt Koebel.

Raised in small town rural Ontario, James called Pembroke and Picton home before settling in Southwestern Ontario. He lives in Stratford, with his wife, Ange.

Earlier releases from the album included 2022’s radio releases “One Mile at a Time” and “Raised On”, as well as critically acclaimed 2021 single, “We’re Okay”, a powerful duet with fellow country artist Amanda Kind.

James was winner of Season 2 of The Shot, and was recently selected from thousands of applicants as one of only 14 artists to participate in The Shot: Canada vs. USA. Touted as “North America’s most intense virtual songwriting competition.” He spent over a decade performing in a Tim McGraw tribute act before turning his attention back to original music.

Tune in to hear my chat with James about his career & new music.