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In between performing at London’s Olympic Handover Party and releasing new single, Real for Me, swiftly followed by the second album, Songs for You, Truths for Me, Ellie Fullalove grabbed James Morrison for a chat about where he’s been, how his girlfriend feels about him immortalising their relationship in song, and collaborating with Nelly Furtado.
You’ve been out of the spotlight for a while, what have you been up to?
I was on tour for nearly two years until September last year, had a month off, spent some time with my brother and sister and my mates. I got back into the studio in October and have been writing and recording since then.
How are you coping in the run up to the release of your new material? Having had your first album go to No. 1, there must be a fair bit of pressure.
Yeah, there is but I never expected to do that well in the beginning. As long as I can keep making music for a living, then I don’t mind how many records I sell. I make music ?cos I wanna make it, not cos I need to sell records. I’m still only 24 but I feel like I’ve grown up quite a lot. You can hear it in the music. It’s all about making tunes that you feel proud of. I’ve learned not to worry as much and just enjoy it.
You performed at London’s Olympic handover party, that’s not a bad start for your comeback?
Pretty good, huh? There were a lot of really good people playing. I met a lot of people that were like ‘Hey man, you played really well’ – it was a good bit of feedback, especially starting off afresh, playing the new single. It was a nice way to ease into it.
How’s the new album different to your first one?
I’ve worked with a few new artists, including Dan Wilson who used to be in Semisonic. It’s a different vibe to just working with songwriters. I duetted with Nelly Furtado, which was exciting. I’m used to hearing all her RnB Timbaland mixes, so it was good to get her to sing on a song like the ones she used to sing, rather than just beats. She was a really nice girl, beautiful to look at, a beautiful singer.
So you’ll keep in touch?
She said she’d send me an email but I’m still waiting!
Any favourite tracks from the new album?
There’s a couple: Once When I was Little, reminding you of the good things about being a kid and the sad fact that you don’t think like that any more and If You Don’t Wanna Love Me – it’s quite simple really, a classic love song.
Your friends and family have been huge influences but how did your girlfriend react to The Pieces Don’t Fit Any More – a track about a rocky patch in your relationship?
(Bursts out laughing) She wasn’t that keen in the beginning. I think it’s important to balance being truthful and writing songs that you feel. Obviously I’m not gonna write something that’s gonna offend her. It worked out alright though.
You’re described as having a romantic heart – what’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done? I guess writing a song might no longer be enough?
I’ve kind of milked that one, haven’t I? I can be romantic but I can be forgetful as well. I just try and do the odd little thing like leaving little notes in the drawer. I went to see The Sound of Music, which I hate, because I knew Gill wanted to see it. I’m like every other guy really – a bit lame but I can organise something if I have to.
Busking in Newquay when you started out probably seems like a distant memory, do you pay buskers much attention now?
I always give them a bit of coinage, sometimes notes – it takes guts and persistence to get up in front of people that might not give a s**t that you’re playing. There used to be a guy in Newquay who played classical guitar. He was amazing. One day I might set up my own label and sign people myself.
Written by Ellie Fullalove
