Jeffrey James: A Candid Conversation On Fake Suede And Musical Evolution

Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Jeffrey James has always embraced transformation. With a career that spans multiple genres and high-profile collaborations, James has built a reputation for creating innovative and deeply emotive music.

He’s introducing the world to his latest project, Fake Suede—a bold and refreshing fusion of 70s disco, soul, indie rock, and modern synth-pop. In this exclusive Q&A, James discusses his inspirations, the creative process behind Fake Suede, and what fans can expect from this exciting new chapter.

Q&A with Jeffrey James

We sat down with Jeffrey James to discuss his latest project, Fake Suede, and the creative journey behind it.

What inspired you to create FAKE SUEDE?

The idea for FAKE SUEDE has been living in my head for a while now. The music inspirations for it are what I grew up listening to. Finally, mid-last year, I had a session with producers William Leong and Jackson Wise. That song became “Celebrate (Night with Me).” That was the first time I thought, “Yes, that’s it! That’s the sound of FAKE SUEDE.  ” It was a perfect jumping-off point.

What’s the meaning behind the name FAKE SUEDE?

The name is an homage to the cultural and aesthetic vibes of the late ’60s and early ’70s and the musical influences that FS pulls from that era. I also wanted to acknowledge the present indie rock influences, along with a little nod to my own constant state of imposter syndrome.

How does your approach to songwriting differ between FAKE SUEDE and your solo work?

I purposefully put more constraints on my FAKE SUEDE project because I had a very specific sound in mind. I’ve always found that restrictions when making art can lead to some of my most exciting and unique works. I wanted to see how far I could chase that. FS has also allowed me to get out of my own way when it comes to what I thought my older work needed to sound like.

What has been the most rewarding part of working on the FAKE SUEDE project so far?

Being able to step into a brand new artistic persona has been my favorite part of this project so far. It gives me the chance to use a very specific part of my personality while creating a new musical and visual world, starting from the ground floor. 

Can you tell me about the character Quint?

If you enjoy animation, the FAKE SUEDE pseudo-mascot is Quint (Quintessence). He’s an anthropomorphic heart drawn as a 1920’s rubber hose-style cartoon (think of the OG Mickey Mouse). He’s in all my song visuals and he may be my favorite non music creation. His story grows with each new song. 

Can you explain more about the concept of Quint (Quintessence) and how he evolved as a character?

Quintessence is a word derived from medieval Latin: Quinta Essencia. Or  Fifth Essence. An essence that was thought to connect everything. I thought that was a perfect personification of what I was trying to convey with my music. Quint chose his own name once I realized he was meant to be heart-shaped. In the same way that I think all art is already floating in the ether, waiting for us to find it and bring it into the “real world,” Quint was already excited and was waiting for FAKE SUEDE to find him. 

Why did you choose the specific style for Quint?

I love rubber hose animation. It somehow portrays a feeling of innocence and simplicity, while also giving me an uneasy and creepy vibe (which I love).  It makes me want to keep watching to see what happens next. I hoped fans would get the same feeling. 

Could you tell us more about the visual storytelling aspect of FAKE SUEDE and how it complements your music?

I wanted to find a way to bring extra emotional and visual depth to the music without limiting it to images and video of myself. The idea is to let the listener find their own meaning behind the different visual and musical combinations. By utilizing this character, Quint, it helps me expand the world of FAKE SUEDE in more abstract and sentimental ways than is usually possible for an indie artist. 

What kind of interaction do you hope fans will have with Quint outside of the music?

Quint’s journey keeps evolving with every new song and step of this project. The possibilities are absolutely endless. All that to say, he will grow and change with the music and with the fans who want to interact with him. 

How does Quint’s journey relate to the personal journey of the listeners who connect with your music?

I hope listeners see a bit of themselves through Quint’s journey, and are able to bring his ideals into their own lives. 

How would you describe the sound of FAKE SUEDE, and where do you see it going in thefuture?

FAKE SUEDE has a soulful and retro-nostalgic feel, while staying grounded in modern lyrical and sonic ideals. I’m always chasing the perfect combo of retro meets modern. So the songs will grow towards wherever that leads me. 

What’s the story behind “Love Don’t Come Easy”?

The song is a combo of my own experiences in dating and what I’ve seen so many of my friends go through, while trying to find the right person. Navigating love and relationships is hard, and unfair, and rewarding, and worth it.

How do you feel this track fits into the larger narrative of the FAKE SUEDE project?

“Love Don’t Come Easy” is much more personal and intimate than my first two singles, which have more uptempo, feel-good vibes. For this song, I pulled less from my disco and indie influences and more from acts like Smokey Robinson and Bill Withers. I think it helps FAKE SUEDE feel like a more well-rounded project.

How does it compare to other singles you’ve released?

This is the first ballad song I’ve released for the FAKE SUEDE project. And it’s much more personal than the general feel-good vibes of my first two singles.

What do you want listeners to take away from the song?

Everyone goes through the same struggles and ups and downs of dating. That doesn’t make it easier, but I find it cathartic and a bit lighter to deal with, knowing that we’re not alone in our journey to find a soul mate.

What’s the most challenging part of blending different genres in your music?

The challenge is always to find your unique sound and voice anytime you are writing a song. I’m always trying to pull from my contrasting influences like Bill Withers or Tame Impala while adding my own musical experiences and taste. The balance is the goal.

Do you ever get writer’s block? How do you overcome it?

I get writer’s block all the time! Sometimes I try to at least write out the cheesy lyrics and/or the lyrics that I know are wrong. Then I give it some space and time before I come back to the song and rewrite it. That usually helps me see the song in a new light. Life experiences help a lot as well. The more life I live, the more I have to write about.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to songwriters trying to find their sound?

Write as many songs as time and your brain will allow. The next song might be the best song you’ve written, but the one after that might be even better. We all start out mimicking our idols, but the more we create, the more our own tastes come to light. And the repetition of writing and writing and writing is how you breakthrough to find what your unique sound is.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned about the music industry?

No one is waiting for your music. You have to find ways of proving that you belong.

What’s next for FAKE SUEDE after this single?

I have a LONG list of FAKE SUEDE songs waiting in the queue. It’s just a matter of timing as to when I release which song. But more music is coming!

Where do you see yourself musically in the next five years?

If I was making this same music in 5 years, I would be very happy

Any final message for your fans?

Thanks for listening!

Looking Ahead

Jeffrey James’ commitment to reinvention and artistic exploration is what sets him apart. With Fake Suede, he has created more than just music—he has built a rich, immersive world where nostalgic sounds meet modern sensibilities. As he continues to push creative boundaries, fans can expect an exciting journey filled with soulful melodies, thoughtful storytelling, and a touch of visual magic. One thing is certain: with Fake Suede, Jeffrey James is just getting started.