Teesside singer James Arthur returns for home-patch show
The X-Factor singer will take to the stage at Stockton Globe this evening
Teesside singer James Arthur is bringing his tour home this evening - as he takes to the stage at Stockton Globe.
The Middlesbrough raised artist is approaching 10 years of work in the music industry, after finding fame by winning the X-Factor in 2012.
Now - with a new album and single, we caught up with James ahead of his return to Teesside.
How do you feel performing back in the North-East?
I’m excited. I specifically wanted a ‘hometown’ show on this tour, it’s something that was really important to me. I’ve always felt so supported by the local people so to bring them a show was something I was determined to do.
I love that I get to play in Stockton on the day before the Royal Albert Hall in London, what more could I ask for?!
How have your North East roots influenced your music?
I say all the time that I think being from where I’m from has had a huge influence on my music and my lyrics. I feel like I wouldn’t even be doing this if it weren’t for my background and my upbringing. There’s something about being from this region, I think we give the good fight and don’t give up all that easily, and that’s something that has stood me in good stead in my career for sure.
What are the inspirations behind your new album 'It Will All Make Sense In The End'? Was lockdown a creative time for you?
I can’t lie, at first it wasn’t. I sat around and played Fifa for a good while to start with – I think we all did, right? But I’m so lucky to be in the position where I could set up an amazing studio in my house and get writing. In all honesty, I don’t know how I’d have got through it if it weren’t for making this album.
Soon it’s your 10-year career anniversary, how has James Arthur evolved in a decade?
I guess in some ways the evolution is pretty evident – for one thing I’m 10 years older! But at the same time, anyone who has known me this whole time will tell you I’m the same guy now that I was then. It’s so mad to me that it’s been that long though. I feel so hugely privileged and genuinely humbled to have done this for a decade now.
What should your fans look forward to seeing most at your show? Any special surprises?
You know there are always some surprises! It’s a long setlist, and so I’m able to do all the songs people know and love and some fan favourites for good measure. There’ll be new stuff, old stuff, and I just want everyone to have a good time since we haven’t been able to do this for so long!
James Arthur plays the Stockton Globe this evening.