The UB Interview: James Artissen Talks New Music

Grammy nominated Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, and Audio Engineer James Artissen also formerly known as James Worthy has long considered the name to be central to his life, and identity.

It represents the dedication, and the passion towards his craft. Coming from New York, the musician attributes his hometown as a major influence on his style, and sound.

Born James Allen Worthy in Queens, New York, James began pursuing music at the age of 16.

During that time period James had the opportunity to meet the late great Michael Jackson at Webster Hall in New York City which inspired James to fully pursue a career in the music business.

After moving to Atlanta, GA the singer, songwriter, and producers first musical experience was at his high school recording studio through a music mentoring program sponsored by Dallas Austin.

His initial foray into music consisted of learning the art of songwriting which later turned into music production shortly after. Artissen was also highly influenced by artists such as: A Tribe Called Quest, Whodini, Kanye West, Miguel, The Weeknd, and Pharrell Williams.

While studying those artists he began to teach himself how to sing in 2009.

To further his education he attended The Art Institute of Atlanta where he received a bachelor‘s degree in audio production. This helped him begin working, and placing his work with mainstream acts, and songwriters.

In 2017, James transitioned from music production to artistry, and began recording himself.

He joined a duo group named Kings X2, and released their debut single “Wine For Me” in 2017. The single peaked at #10 on the US Billboard Hot Single Sales Chart for 5 weeks. Later in 2018 the group disbanded, and James released his debut solo single “Move” which features the rap group Whodini.

Following up to 2019 James released his anticipated EP “Blu Leisure” which became critically acclaimed upon its release.

The project included guest appearances from: Tony Terry, Sonna Rele, Kalenna Harper, and Whodini. After its great success he released his sophomore EP “Kaleidoscopes”, and in 2023 he joined forces with rapper Big Gipp of the rap group Goodie Mob to release their collaborative EP “Gipp N Worthy“.

The lead single “TOTW” peaked at #91 on the US Billboard R&B Digital Sales Chart also charting at the #1 position on the Amazon Best Sellers Chart.

Within all of James’s work he has been nominated for several Grammy Awards by working with names such as: Meek Mill, Justin Bieber, Robin S., 112, Raphael Saadiq, and so many others to name.

In 2024 James launched his own label imprint Humble Sound Record in conjunction with Sony Orchard. The label houses artists such as: B Angie B, Robin S., Tynisha Keli, Sophia Habib, Shaynah, and Truth Hurts.

This year, James has released a string of hot tracks, including his latest “Show Me” and “I Can Tell” feat. DJ Luke Nasty, plus “Let You Go” feat. 112 with Big Gipp from their collaboration EP.

UB premiered the first hot single from the pair entitled “Tick Tock” in 2021.

Aries from UB recently caught up with the multi-talented James Artissen to talk new music.

James shares when fans can expect a full length project and why the name change.

Plus he tells UB about his imprint Humble Sound, and plans for artists such as B Angie B.

And James Artissen talks about humble beginnings growing up in Queens and working with Dallas Austin and more!