The former X Factor winner described songwriting as a “form of therapy” and said sharing his personal struggles through music has not only helped him, but also connected him with fans on a deeper level
The 37-year-old singer, who recently released his new album Pisces, opened up about how his diagnosis has helped him creatively and emotionally, calling it a major asset in his music career.
Speaking to Fault magazine, James explained, “I see ADHD as a superpower when it comes to songwriting. It allows me to have hyper-focus when it comes to things I’m passionate about. And I care deeply about songwriting – so I can lock in for long periods.” Describing his new album as his most authentic work to date, he added, “Pisces represents me being unapologetically myself. I’ve reached a place where I am woven into the fabric of everything about this album and I’m proud of it.”
The former X Factor winner described songwriting as a “form of therapy” and said sharing his personal struggles through music has not only helped him, but also connected him with fans on a deeper level. “It’s always cathartic to write about difficult things. Making myself vulnerable takes courage and I know I’m helping others,” he said.
One track, Friends, was written in tribute to Friends star Matthew Perry, who passed away in October 2023. James reflected on how Perry’s well-documented battles with addiction affected him personally and inspired the song. “I hope it’s the kind of song that stops people in their tracks and makes them think about reaching out to those they haven’t spoken to in a while – and just talk more openly about mental health,” he said.
James also admitted he’s often too hard on himself, encouraging others to treat themselves with more kindness. “It’s important to have a healthy internal dialogue,” he noted. “If we said some of the things we say to ourselves out loud to someone else, we’d probably get a black eye!”
