James Bullard: Here and Now(Interview)

James Bullard

With his striking hazel eyes, dark brown mane and amiable personality, James Bullard is a fine example of a celebrity. But he took an alternative road which is music.

James Bullard starred in a controversial film called Ken Park. The film talks about the abusive/disturbing home lives of several teenagers, in the city of Visalia in California. He plays the role of Shawn which is described as : The most stable of the four main characters, Shawn has an ongoing sexual relationship with his girlfriend’s mother Rhonda throughout the story. He casually socializes with their family, who (including his girlfriend) are completely unaware of the situation. The film was banned in other countries due to the graphic portrayal of sex and nudity.

One has an impression that James Bullard has a kind of depth possessed by good actors. With more roles, he could have developed from that troubled teen image into complex characters on the big screen. But fame is fleeting. It is a very competitive world out there. But while other actors experience a sort of fame hangover, he found another way to express his artistry: Music.

From 2005 onwards he devoted his craft in honing his guitar and singing. He turned out to be good in what he does. In fact, his recordings through myspace attracted a lot of listeners and loyal fans. He has a terrific vocal range which makes him really good in covering a wide variety of styles. His guitar technique has developed that artful complexity as he dabbled with blues, funk and even jazz. But his main vehicle is rock and roll.

So what’s this artist who started along side James Ransone is really like? He gave Sphere Music the honor of having a one on one interview. He is actually down to earth and friendly. He proves to be a sport when it comes to answering any question.

I first saw you in Ken Park and what made you decide to stop making movies and concentrate more in music?

Music is what I’ve always known. Landing the role in Ken Park was just being in the right place at the right time. I never really pursued acting, but if given the chance to do more acting I’d take another stab at it.

You have a way with melodies. I heard your demos via myspace a couple of years ago and I am impressed with your style. How’s your career going so far?

It’s been kind of a roller coaster, but I think with this EP coming out, gigs will get better and so will my quality of life.

What’s your music forecast for 2013?

I’m really not the guy to ask, as I don’t really keep up with trends lately but, I think people are really starting to wake up and not be fooled by smoke and mirrors. I think people are really drawn towards artists that not only make good records but can actually deliver the goods live.

What’s the most memorable gig you’ve ever done?

Most memorable gig I’ve ever done…hmm…there’s been so many that have had their own special moments…really hard to choose and also remember. (laughs)

How do you describe your music?

I guess I would call it garage rock/singer-songwriter…I’m influenced by just about every genre…if it makes my ears perk up and it feels good, then I’m sold.

Top 5 musical influences?

Top 5, sheesh…that’s so hard to nail down but I guess right now I’ll go with…Beatles, Rolling Stones, Shuggie Otis, Jeff Buckley and Bonnie Raitt…remember that’s just off the top of my head!!!

What are you listening to right now.

Right now I’m listening to Bobby Mack’s, “The Bravest Man In The Universe”.

MISC:

Eye color: Hazel

Hair: Brown

Favorite time of the day: Midnight

Favorite childhood memory: Building forts

Best lesson learned in life in your 20s? Moderation. Quality not quantity.

What are the qualities in a person that attract you the most and why? Takes care of themselves, listens to you when you’re talking and loves great food!!

the most expensive thing your purchased so far? Tweed 1×12, Fender Blues Deluxe.

Places you have been to and want to see again: New York City and London

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