Henry James

Born in the small city of Lakeland, Florida, Henry James Idleburgh, a.k.a. Henry James; is the first born son and second oldest of five children. Being the oldest son, he feels, taught him leadership and responsibility; qualities that clearly stand out as the foundation of his music/lyrics. Growing up, Henry “always had a love for music”. He grew up playing instruments in middle and high school. However, it became difficult to maintain during high school because he began pursuing a successful football career. None-the-less, he never gave up on music. Coming from the generation where “rap” was being born out of “hip-hop”, Henry James grew up lyrically battling with his friends to see who was the most talented, and admits, often losing in free-style battles. But the tables turned in his favor when they began writing and “structuring” songs to record in the studio. Here is where he found his talent and love for songwriting and gained respect amongst his peers for his lyrical diversity and realism.

Although inspired by the revolutionary spirit of Tupac to be different, the trail blazing creativity of Andre 3000 to step to a different drummer and the undeniable faith of Kirk Franklin to create songs defining his passion for God, Henry James still compares himself to no one in the industry. “I’m like a crock pot; seasoned with many artists and sounds; allowing me to be unique.” He believes “that Hip Hop allows you to be extremely creative and free” and feels that there is “a need to speak about more than self, fashion and wealth”. So, with an urgency in his voice that sneaks up on you, leaving you with the feeling that you need to do something, Henry James leaves his listeners hopeful. Lyrically, Henry will guide you, show you, and evoke you to act in a world that is so reactionary. From the simplest of lyrics/ideas, to the deepest expression of feelings, his formula is simple; my “inspiration is to be an inspiration to the people and to the Hip Hop community.” Clearly he wants to create positive change; create a forum where solutions are found; create feeling in his listeners.

A newcomer to performing, Henry James performed at Atlanta, GA’s famous Jazz club, Café 290, in the “Who’s Got That Vibe” talent showcase backed by the Hudson On Bass Band. After competing with over 150 contestants from various genres of music over a ten week time period, Henry James placed amongst the 14 best and took second in the finales. With his ability to play most brass instruments, he “dreams of having a live band sound in all my songs and at all of my shows.” Defining himself as a “rapper, songwriter and producer”, Henry is focused on becoming one, or all, of the above professionally within the next five years.

In the state of confusion that Hip Hop has been suspended in for so long; the lyrical content, style and presentation of Henry James reminds us that it is always darkest before the storm; but with a little hope; a little faith, everything will be alright and anything is possible. His ultimate goal? Well, Henry James believes that “with prayer, hard work and continuous determination” he will be the owner of his own record label where he “can have the ability to assist other artist and be a positive factor in the type of music being heard worldwide”. Henry James….one man daring to stand alone, if necessary, humble yet confident; determined to walk the path lit by faith to reach, teach and give the people hope. After all, we do have the ability to choose!