Summary

In this conversation, James Laurent discusses his journey from aspiring football player to successful musician and engineer. He shares insights into the intense creative process behind his album 'Laugh at the Tragedy,' the challenges of navigating the music industry, and the emotional connection he hopes to foster with his listeners. The discussion highlights the importance of personal growth, the fluidity of creativity, and the impact of music on healing and connection.

Takeaways

James Laurent's transition from football to music was unexpected but rewarding.

The launch of the Alien Earth TV show was a hectic period for him.

He experienced a significant creative burst while working on 'Laugh at the Tragedy.'

James emphasizes the importance of not forcing creativity and allowing for natural flow.

He has developed his musical skills through extensive experience in engineering.

The emotional connection in music is vital for both the artist and the listener.

James believes in revisiting older works to improve them with newfound skills.

He values feedback from friends to help curate his music.

The current album reflects his growth and current artistic vision.

James aims to create music that resonates with listeners and helps them feel understood.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:41 Transitioning from Football to Music

02:13 The Success of His Music Career

05:39 Creative Process and Songwriting

10:30 Selecting Songs for Releases

13:09 What Listeners Can Expect from His Music

14:40 Upcoming Projects and Future Plans

17:51 Outro

You can find out more, follow and listen to James Laurent's music by following the links below.

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5XFVayXAxlBh069sqsr6h7

https://soundcloud.com/jameslaurent

https://www.youtube.com/@JamesLaurent

https://instagram.com/iamjameslaurent

https://www.iamjameslaurent.com

Summary:

In this episode of the TJPL News Podcast, host Tamara Jenna interviews Honey G, who gained fame on the X Factor in 2016. Honey G shares her journey from a classical music background to becoming a prominent figure in the music industry. She discusses the impact of her X Factor experience, her performances at Pride festivals, and her aspirations for the future, including her own record label, H to the O Music. The conversation highlights empowerment, resilience, and using one’s voice for positivity.

Key Takeaways:

‘Nothing To Me’ was born from creative flow.

Honey G has been performing at Pride festivals this summer.

She grew up in a classical music family and studied popular music.

Entering X Factor changed her life and boosted her confidence.

She queued up with thousands for X Factor – she wasn’t headhunted.

She emphasises turning pain into empowerment.

She has a loyal fan base despite public scrutiny.

Her label, H to the O Music, focuses on her own music.

Performing is where she feels happiest and most fulfilled.

Exciting times are ahead for Honey G’s career.

Soundbites:

"I was in a bit of a dark place."

"I was catapulted into success."

"I know it's where I belong."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Honey G

01:36 Honey G's Musical Journey

04:52 The Impact of X Factor

09:41 Honey G's Identity and Public Perception

10:09 Establishing H To The O Music

11:37 Performing at Pride Festivals

12:55 Future Aspirations and Freestyle Rap

Honey G

Honey G’s brand new single Nothing To Me is out now on all major platforms. Make sure you go and stream it, and don’t forget to keep up with Honey G on socials –

follow on

Spotify at https://open.spotify.com/artist/07ZsCOabRZOyun57iRd8Lq?si=wK61m-0YQfCf_Zu-IdMe0A

X at x.com/the_honey_g,

Instagram at

https://www.instagram.com/official_honey_g/ and

Facebook at facebook.com/TheHoneyG

TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@the_real_honeyg

Summary:

In this powerful episode of the TJPL News Podcast, host Tamara Jenna sits down with acclaimed musical director, session drummer and producer Donavan Hepburn to explore one of the most significant stories in UK music news and independent music culture right now — the revival of Highgate Gospel Choir.

Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the choir’s debut, Donavan shares the emotional journey behind reuniting four to five original families, including five of his own siblings, and inviting the next generation to step into the sound of gospel legacy. We unpack the cultural and spiritual weight of this project, the urgency to preserve history, and the creative challenge of modernising such a revered sound while staying true to its roots.

From Birmingham’s gospel revival to live shows in Brixton and Inverness, The Legacy Project reflects the beating heart of UK independent music, while drawing on Donavan’s extensive experience working with artists like Take That, Jeff Lynne’s ELO, and Little Mix. He also offers an exclusive preview of the upcoming Deluxe Edition, set for release in August 2025.

Whether you're an artist, music lover, or follower of global gospel music news, this episode bridges generations, genres, and geography.

Takeaways:

Love, legacy, and urgency fuelled the revival

The 40-year milestone holds deep spiritual and historical meaning

The reunion felt like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity

Blending classic gospel with modern recording techniques posed unique challenges

Donavan’s siblings and their children are part of the new choir

Original fans have welcomed the return with warmth and nostalgia

The Deluxe Edition evolved naturally from the creative process

Hepburn compares the choir’s revival to his work with global artists

The message for younger generations: unity, strength, and spiritual grounding

The choir’s legacy is rooted in unwavering love for God and people

🔊 Sound Bites:

“Wouldn't it be a cool way to commemorate?”

“This could be the last opportunity.”

“We've stayed true to the Highgate sound.”

Chapters:

00:00 – Reviving a Legacy: The Return of Highgate Gospel Choir

03:07 – The Significance of Milestones: 40 Years of Highgate

07:14 – A Sense of Urgency: The Importance of Reunion

10:18 – Balancing Pressure and Excitement in Reworking Music

16:05 – Modernising the Sound: Technology Meets Tradition

18:24 – Involving the Next Generation: Family and Legacy

23:00 – Fan Reactions: Bridging Old and New

32:51 – Comparing Musical Experiences: From Choir to Big Names

39:37 – Inspiring the Next Generation: Lessons from the Choir

Support Highgate Gospel Choir by listening here:

https://open.spotify.com/album/7Kf50H0TRKyJFmFDRsdVO1

You can also read our full feature in digital or print format in Issue 32 of TJPL News Magazine: https://www.tjplnews.com/magazine