Andrew James
Andrew James
Roots Rock • Indie-Pop • The Midwestern Spirit
Andrew James knows better than most that timing is everything. A Texas native who first earned a reputation as a guitar-slinging sideman, he stepped out on his own in 2016 with the Shoreline EP — a collection recorded on a whim that unexpectedly struck gold in the early days of curated streaming playlists. Intimate, melancholy, and achingly honest, the EP has since earned 12+ million streams on Spotify and launched James into a new chapter as a solo artist.
From Uncertainty to Clarity
Despite the breakout success, James struggled with how to follow it up. Adrift on the Texas tour circuit, he found himself questioning his direction — until a chance encounter at South by Southwest 2018 changed everything. Performing in a chaotic hotel bar, he noticed only one person listening attentively: Willie Nelson. Nelson not only tipped the band generously but offered a few encouraging words, sparking a turning point that reignited James’ purpose.
He soon moved back to Nashville — for the second time — and committed fully to music, this time with humility and focus.
What Am I Running From? — Full-Length Debut
With producers Rocko Wheeler and Andrija Tokic at East Nashville’s Bomb Shelter studio, James created his debut full-length album, What Am I Running From?. The 10-track project blends:
- Roots-rock energy
- Folk storytelling
- Indie-pop textures
The songs trace James’ personal struggles — with family, relationships, and artistic insecurity — but ultimately land on resilience and self-discovery.
Notable Tracks
- “Bound to Break” — a bright rhythm paired with lyrics about toxic love.
- “What Am I Running From?” — anthemic classic-rock self-questioning.
- “Mary” — featuring Houston soul singer Kam Franklin, a delicate ballad of burning hearts.
- “Star on the Boulevard” — raw, cathartic, influenced by James’ love for ‘80s hair metal.
- “Worry Is the Devil’s Language” — a folk-inspired mantra of hope, closing the record with perspective.
Influences & Sound
Pulling inspiration from Don Henley, James Taylor, Foy Vance, and Ryan Adams, James’ music fuses lyrical honesty with sonic exploration. His debut balances grayscale themes of doubt and struggle with vibrant, genre-spanning arrangements.
Where He Stands Today
Written and recorded before the pandemic, What Am I Running From? reflects a chapter of anxiety, perseverance, and growth. Since then, James has become engaged and is moving into a brighter personal chapter, but his music remains a reminder of resilience.
“I hope the songs help someone as much as they helped me, if not more.” — Andrew James
Andrew James continues to create music that speaks to life’s rough edges and quiet triumphs, proving that even in the hardest moments, the timing can be just right.
Upcoming Concerts at Dosey Doe
No upcoming concerts scheduled for Andrew James. Check back for more live music events in The Woodlands at Dosey Doe!
Past Concerts
- Saturday, June 07, 2025
- Friday, September 02, 2022
- Wednesday, February 16, 2022