We recently connected with Kendall James and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Kendall thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

In October of 2021 I took the big leap out of the 9-5 to pursue my creative endeavors. It’s been one of the most freeing, yet terrifying things I’ve ever done with a wife and a 5 year old to support. Aside from fronting Neon the Bishop, I started a video production company called Reel Flamingo. Now, my main source of income is performing music both solo and with the band, as well as video production. It’s a dream for sure, but definitely a grind.

So far, the risk has brought some pretty incredible rewards. Just three months after stepping out Neon the Bishop won Channel 93.3’s Hometown for the Holidays, bringing some pretty great opportunities in 2022. The video production company has snagged some cool contracts as well. We haven’t landed completely stable financially yet, but definitely heading that direction.

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

I’ve had the chance to dive into a lot of different creative outlets. I’ve done everything from live-streaming music to wedding videography, directing music videos and short films. I’ve written music myself as well as in co-writing sessions. I also do much of the artwork and socials for Neon the Bishop.

I’d say that what I’m most proud of though is our live performance. I do believe this is what sets us apart from other acts. It’s becoming quite the experience. We want our fans and soon to be fans to be immersed in what we’re doing on stage and to forget about anything else for that short time they’re with us. I don’t want to give too much away, but we like to be theatrical. Often props are included, a killer light show, and Neon himself making an appearance. Neon is the main character to our story. The project is pretty conceptual however not limited. That’s another thing that has been so much fun. This story has been writing itself, and when we release our first full length album, it will come with a comic book to read while you listen. I’m so pumped for that.

The next “creation” coming is our new single “The Get Down” dropping March 18, with that we’ll have a music video as well as a show at Meow Wolf Denver with 888. I’m very excited to share the meaning behind the song. Behind the dance indie-pop-alt vibes is a message of individuality and the encouragement to be authentically who you were made to be. Don’t be okay in the status quo. Forget normal! Take a chance and cross the line!

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

This may be unpopular, but step outside of what is trending. Allow yourself to try something new. Because unfortunately right now, many bands/artists are becoming copy cats of trending music. Not because they want to, but because it sells, and being struggling musicians, we need the money. I recently witnessed a band that released a new song and music video, and in every way mimicked the 1975. They didn’t even try to hide it. The lead singer even added an accent, wore his hair, and moved exactly like Matthew Healy. This crushes my soul. True creatives are looking to create something that hasn’t been experienced before, or at the very least something experienced in a new way. Unfortunately, there isn’t so much of a demand for that. I mean the quickest way for someone to be successful on TikTok is to copy what somebody has already done. I’m not going to say TikTok has ruined creativity completely, because there are definitely some incredibly talented people doing some pretty cool things on there. But, it has definitely stifled upcoming creatives.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

From my point of view, I can’t understand what it’s like to be non-creative. I can’t imagine not creating, as just about every second of the day I am dreaming of what I can create next. So just as I struggle to understand them, I get that they feel the same about me. If I’m being honest though, I truly believe that every single person living was made to create. It is simply walls or blocks that have been built around us based on life experiences that hold us back from that. There is so much to discuss regarding this and it’s more time than I have, but I highly recommend the book “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron. It’s all about ridding ourselves from these blocks, and that all of us have creativity that would flow otherwise.

Contact Info:

• Website: neonthebishop.com
• Instagram: @neonthebishop
• Facebook: facebook.com/neonthebishop
• Twitter: @neonthebishop
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCENjERYT3ZQSayy8ZC8BaDw

Image Credits
Sarah West Noe Deleon