This week on Here’s What We Know, we dive into a fascinating conversation with country music singer James Dupré. From YouTube covers to his passion for meteorology, join us as we explore the unexpected journey of a small-town Louisiana boy turned internet sensation who recently made headlines with his involvement in Randy Travis’ AI song “Where That Came From.”
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In this Episode:
- Discover how James played a pivotal role in bringing the voice of stroke-stricken country legend Randy Travis back through an innovative AI project.
- Learn about James’ early embrace of YouTube as a platform to share his music, starting way back in 2007 before it became mainstream for artists.
- Uncover the musical influences that shaped James’ sound from childhood.
- A Meteorologist at Heart: Despite his musical success, we delve into James’ original dream job—becoming a meteorologist and his ongoing fascination with hurricanes.
- Get an intimate look at growing up in Bayou Chicot, Louisiana, from tight-knit communities to unique Cajun cuisines like boudin and etouffée.
- Appreciate how James adapts his vocals across different genres, showcasing versatility akin to elite athletes adjusting their game.
Quotations:
“I’ve always been attracted to great songs and great vocalists.” ~ James Dupré
“The biggest impact for me musically was just they always had music playing in the background.” ~ James Dupré
“I don’t want to say that I love hurricanes. Because I’m fascinated by them. I really am. But I’ve also lived through and seen, you know, the devastating effects that they have. And, but it is like to me, hurricane season is like the most exciting time of year.” ~ James Dupré
“I’ve always had that philosophy, you know, I think. I think, um, letting someone choose their path in life instead of, you know, telling them what their path is.” ~ James Dupré
“I’m doing what I love and I’m thankful that I get to do what I love I’m I’ve had great opportunities come my way and I’ve tried my best to take advantage of those opportunities when I could.” ~ James Dupré
Bio:
James Dupré was born and raised in Bayou Chicot, LA. He was named one of Rolling Stone Magazine’s “Country Artists You Need to Know”, and has spent a lot of time sharing his smooth baritone voice with his fans across social media platforms and at venues and festivals across the United States, Canada, and Europe. The one-time aspiring meteorologist turned paramedic became a YouTube sensation in 2007 which ultimately led to an invitation to perform on Ellen. Shortly after, he released his debut album “It’s All Happening” in 2010, which charted on Billboard. After signing a record deal with Warner Music Nashville in 2011, Dupré began performing and touring full-time. In 2015, Dupré appeared on NBC’s The Voice (Season 9) with a four-chair turn, landing him a spot on Adam Levine’s team. Following his departure from The Voice, James released his sophomore album “Stoned to Death”, with two singles charting on the Billboard Indicator chart: “Hurt Good” and “Stoned to Death”. The father of five made his acting debut in the film “The Price”, playing the son of a country singer portrayed by Randy Travis. In 2019, James was handpicked by Randy and Mary Travis as vocalists for “The Music of Randy Travis” tour (now known as the “More Life” tour). Along with Randy’s original band, James performs all of Randy’s biggest hits. James released his third studio album, “Home and Away”, in 2020 with three singles: “Home and Away”, “Another Love Song”, and “Painfully Pretty.” In September 2023, he made his Grand Ole Opry debut in Nashville.
Guest Contact Info:
Website: https://www.jamesdupre.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesdupre/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamesdupremusic/
YouTube: @jamesdupremusic