As he shares his excellent third full-length record, multi-faceted talent Reuben James takes Wonderland through the work, track-by-track.

Since early days cutting through the noises in his native Birmingham’s jazz scene to a series of critically-acclaimed bodies of work; pianist, singer-songwriter and composer Reuben James has quietly become a staple of the UK industry. Via his own label, Rufio Records, the polymath unleashes his third full-length album Big People Music, a quintessential and genre-bending opus that positions itself amongst the most potent works of the year. 

Boasting features from an array of revered talent — from jazz maven Jamie Cullum to production favourites Jungle, iconic vocalist Emile Sandé to fellow Brum favourite Kofi Stone — the album is a broad and vibrant showcase of James’ boundless nous. To celebrate, he stops by Wonderland to delve deep into the 16-pronged project, track-by-track.

Listen to Big People Music…

Read the track-by-track…

“My Lords My Ladies”

Stephen Fry gives an Introduction to Reuben James the artist while the band groove underneath. The Scene is set for the sophomore album.

“So Lucky”

A song about self worth and self respect. I wanted to create an anthem for people were claiming back their time, and keeping away leeches. This is in reference to people who bring you down with negativity in personal circles and the music industry. Essentially I’m saying that I’m sure a lot of people think they really know me, but they actually don’t! I like to keep my circle small. This is also the most funk track I’ve ever made with lots of slap bass and synths, co-produced with Ben Jones.

“Own Thing”

A love song telling a story of a first meeting and it feeling different to anything you’ve ever experienced. I’m painting a scene of when two soulmates first cross paths and the journey of how the night progresses. We were going for more of and uptempo dance feel with Jazzy chords and funky bass, and continuing the theme of huge chanting hooks for the Chorus.

“Feel it Coming”

This is a tale of overcoming adversity when the world becomes too overwhelming but you find yourself in autopilot, riding the waves and ups and downs of life. It was created as a song to uplift anyone going through tough times and to persevere as the best times of your life are not only round the corner but right now!  We went for a more laid back surfer type chill beat with an addictive bass line and a sprinkle of lush strings and synths to give it a psychedelic feel. More gang vocals and Jay Prince was the cherry on top with his iconic verse. 

“Ambulance”

The perfect set up for ‘Teach Me’! I always wanted to have little skits in my album and this was the perfect nod to my Jamaican heritage and also my hometown Birmingham! This also gives a bit of backstory about what ‘Teach Me’ is all about. 

“Teach Me”

A late night rhythm about being with an older woman with more experience that will show you the ropes. The concept of the song is a little tongue in cheek – an inside joke. But the delivery is sincere as I perform my first ever reggae love song. This was also the first time I cut a song live in the room with musicians so it has such a live organic feel.

“Earfquake” 

I’ve always been a fan of this song and of Tyler the Creator – This is our remix of his classic – WE really went old soul and flipped it on its head.

“Big People Music”

This is talking about the fact that I’m making more mature and timeless music these days. A snapshot into my life and my work ethic, definitely a driving no nonsense song but yet still cool and laid back. 

In this song I explain that ‘I ain’t got no time to waste…’ I stay suited and booted and I’m working hard, hustling and trying to make moves. This was the only song cut to Tape which defo makes is slap in a certain way.

“You’re Mine”

Emeli (Sande) and I are telling a love story through both our eyes. Speaking about the state of the world, and being able to focus of being saved by giving and receiving love even though the world is burning down around us. I think it’s a very important message and deep song that the world needs right now. We are just trying to spread more love.

“Show Me You’re Love”

This is a moment in the record where you are wanting reassurance and needing to hear the words that someone loves you back. This was also cut live in the room and stacked up with vocoder and vocals etc. It was an honour to have one of my heroes Jamie Cullum bless the outro of the song to really bring out the emotion of the message and make people cry.

“Freewheel”

This story is born from being a touring musician and constantly being in a state of seeking the adrenaline rush of being on stage. Constantly trying to recreate that high in everyday life. The irony is that sometimes the most beautiful moments actually are right in front of you at home if you take the time to slow your mind and soak in the real important things.

“No One Else”

Working with one of my favourite artists Honne and Adam Flowers this track is really us pouring our hearts out to that special significant other.  Discussing the state of bliss of finally meeting the person you want to spend the rest of your life with.  Some of my favourite chords are in this song.

“Shotgun”

“Shotgun” is set in an old western, it’s a different time and we go on a journey of falling in love with a dangerous woman. The woman in particular carries around a shotgun. The whole vibe is a tale of being careful not to push too many of her buttons to avoid her wanting to use the shotgun! However the more dangerous she is the more in love you become. A fun song to record with the incredible Tom McFarland from Jungle, and Moragö from Spain.

“Deep Inside”

“Deep Inside” is an exploration of my love for afrobeat… also cut live in the studio with my favourite musicians.  It’s talking about a journey deep within one’s heritage and calling in life and our perception of reality.  It’s all about searching within your soul.

“Brum Town”

Brum town is my nod to the city I was born and grew up in… Birmingham UK – Kofi and I talk about getting in the car from London and driving back home and talking about our favourite things about the most beautiful city in the world. Brum will always be home to me so it’s only right I wrote a song for my city! (UTV)

“Keyon’s Reprise”

A final chapter and a closing note from my brother Keyon Harrold surrounded by many horns playing the chords from “Show Me You’re Love” the theme plays on with fat horns as I thank the world for coming along on this amazing journey with me.