Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to James Forbes. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, James thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

I’ve played in over 15 bands throughout my life, but the most fulfilling by far has been my current project, Death Cab For Karaoke. We bring the thrill of live band karaoke to life, where we play, and you sing! While we specialize in pop-punk and emo, we’ve also expanded to special themed nights and private events.

This project holds deep meaning for me for several reasons. First, I never anticipated it would grow this much. Before the pandemic, we played to modest weekday crowds of around 50 people, without charging entry. I often had to beg friends to attend. But now, it’s a different story. After the pandemic, our audience has expanded, and I no longer recognize 90% of the faces in the crowd. Each show brings in new, enthusiastic fans.

Second, I never imagined I could monetize my passion for music. Although I’ve been in bands that earned a bit of money, Death Cab For Karaoke has become a profitable side hustle. Making a living from music is notoriously difficult, so I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to do so. The support from our fans and the success of our shows mean the world to me.

Finally, the friendships I’ve formed through this journey have been invaluable. The band has seen various lineup changes, yet I’ve maintained close relationships with all the former members. I’m immensely proud of the contributions and hard work each person has put into this project. Music, much like cooking, is greater than the sum of its parts. Just as a skilled chef combines ingredients to create a delicious dish, playing with my bandmates results in a harmonious blend that gets people singing along.

Death Cab For Karaoke has been a remarkable adventure, and I look forward to many more unforgettable nights. Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I started playing in bands in the 8th grade, around 2002, covering blink-182 and other pop-punk greats. My first instrument was the bass, and I didn’t switch to guitar seriously until 2013. Throughout that time, I played in numerous original projects, but only one cover band. When I moved to San Diego in 2017, I knew I wanted to start a band, but I wasn’t sure what direction it would take…

Death Cab For Karaoke began in January 2018. What initially started as a plan for a regular cover band quickly evolved into a live band karaoke concept. Our first show was in May 2018 at Til Two in San Diego, leading to a monthly residency at The Office in North Park. We rocked the house every Wednesday until the pandemic forced a hiatus. After the pandemic, we secured a residency at Soda Bar, which has since exploded in popularity! We’ve also hosted special events, such as a blink-182 night at Music Box, with more themed nights on the horizon.

We offer a truly unique experience where anyone can take the stage and live out their rockstar dreams. You don’t have to be the best singer or the greatest showman; you just need to come onstage and rock out with us! It’s been incredible to witness friendships and even relationships blossom among regular attendees. I’m immensely proud that we can bring people together to sing along to the songs they love.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

To me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is being onstage. It’s where I can truly be myself, no holds barred. In my day job, I often have to suppress aspects of my personality to maintain professionalism. But when I’m onstage with my best friends, playing music I love, I feel completely liberated. It’s in those moments that my true self shines through.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Support your local music scene: attend local shows, arrive early to support the opening acts, and discover new artists. Purchase merchandise or records at gigs, and spread the word about the bands you love to your friends.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.deathcabforkaraoke.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deathcabforkaraoke/
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/deathcabforkaraoke
• Other: I also have personal solo work available athttps://forestforbes.bandcamp.com/

  My bassist makes music as Embers

  https://www.instagram.com/himynameisembers/

Image Credits

Raine Media
Belmont Photography