FOSTER JAMES

5 MINUTES WITH… FOSTER JAMES

In New York, our final stop on our travels we caught up with the super stylish and talented musician Foster James. We did a little street style shoot around NY iconic streets and had a fun afternoon! We thought you guys would like to know a little bit more about her so here’s our 5 minutes with Foster James.

For those who are new to your music, can you give us a bit of background
on yourself as an artist?

I don’t have too much material out yet. I released a collaborative EP called LOVEMORE, with my fiance’s band Girl Skin in early 2018 along with 3 music videos. I’ve been working on my first solo album ever since then and I’m almost done with it, so I’m really excited to put that out soon…it’s been all-consuming for me in the best way.

What were your musical beginnings?

My mom says I sang before I talked haha. I used to hum every time I ate as a kid, too; I got in trouble a lot for that, like sent away from the dinner table because I couldn’t stop myself haha, I’m sure it was pretty annoying. But I’ve always been really musical, as far as I can remember. I sang in choirs growing up but I couldn’t read music so I’d memorize everything by ear.

The 70s is a very special decade for us, are there any artists from the 70s that you particularly admire?

My favorite person to DJ right now is Aretha Franklin, late 60s I guess, also David Bowie. Music was much more complex in terms of instruments being regularly used in popular songs and I’ve recently started to appreciate
that a lot more.

What kind of music defines the teenage you?

Rap and hip hop. I was obsessed with the cadence of it. Tupac, Biggie, Snoop Dogg, Lauryn Hill, etc. I also loved pop music. I think I can appreciate almost any kind of music. It’s infinitely fascinating and you always learn something listening to a new artist you haven’t heard before. There should be no ego or hierarchy of “cool” with music, if you connect with something, then it’s good.

Do you remember the first record you ever bought?

The first CD I ever bought was Alicia Keys, also the first concert I went to. As a kid, I connected with female vocalists and thought her voice was magic. Record… I can’t remember, but I try to buy records I’ve never seen
before for Sid when I go to record stores. I pick an artist I’ve never heard of based on the cover I like the most. You never know what you’re gonna get 🙂

What new music are you listening to?

Recently I’ve been listening a lot to Nancy Sinatra. I’m also into Ibeyi, they’re relatively new.

The song that would get you straight on the dance floor?

Ah so many. Blondie- Call Me, or Rebel Yell by Billy Idol, or Boots Are Made For Walkin by Nancy? I feel like that’s a dangerous question because I just want to name so many more.

You also model for a lot of incredible brands, how important is fashion to you?

I kind of fell into fashion but it’s another form of expression that I’ve learned I really love. I love working with creatives in fashion… all of the photographers, make up artists, stylists, etc. inspire me. Something succeeding in both fashion and music always comes down to intense attention to detail.

How would you describe your style?

First of all anyone who knows me knows that skincare is most important haha, skin before anything else. So most days, I don’t wear makeup, just good skincare products (FYI glycolic acid peel pads have been a game changer :)). My friends and I are always sharing new tips or products we’ve found. Women who feel good in their skin are women who can take on the world.

Comfort is important to me, so if something is high maintenance, or expensive, you won’t find me in it regularly. I’m into wearing Sid’s suits right now. I always love berets, bell bottoms, big jackets, and I tend to prefer a “vintage” style I guess. The most important thing is that you feel good in what you’re wearing, and don’t let the clothes wear you.

Do you have one piece of clothing that’s more special than the others and
what’s the story behind it?

I’ve been living in this white faux shag jacket Sid’s mom bought me this month. I love his mom and always think of her when I wear it. Also, with this winter being so cold, I really need it here in New York 🙂

Iluka has currated an amazing Spotify playlist for everyone! You can listen to it HERE

Check her out on Instagram @fosterxjames