[INTERVIEW] Kodi James Talks Debut Single "Elizabeth Taylor"

Los Angeles-based queer pop artist Kodi James is pushing the boundaries of gender norms, and we love him for it.

Growing up with music at the center of his world, getting his start singing in his father’s church at just five years old, he went on to study musical theatre in college, where he discovered his passion for pop music before deciding to move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the industry.

Now James is a rising icon in the LGBT community, making diversity and representation the focus of an empowering, resonant message. Finding inspiration in the classic icons of the ‘70s and ‘80s, but adding his own modern flair, his music has a timeless sound that will speak to all generations without prejudice.

The fabulous performer recently released his delicious debut single “Elizabeth Taylor” with a spectacular music video in which he plays an androgynous version of the legendary star alongside a supporting cast of queer men of color. Learn more about the project in Kodi’s interview with Musical Notes Global below.

MNG: We're loving "Elizabeth Taylor" so much! How does it feel to finally be making your official debut?

Kodi James: Thank you so much! I'm so glad y'all are enjoying it. It feels very surreal to finally have something out. I've been working on my project for nearly four years and have been sitting on "Elizabeth Taylor" for one year, so its all very exciting.

MNG: Why did you choose this particular song as you debut single?

KJ: I chose "Elizabeth Taylor" as my debut single simply because Elizabeth represents everything that I want to be as an artist. She was always present and aware of her worth, platform and the impact she could have and was the fiercest advocate for equality. And my hope is that this song/video sets the tone for the rest of my career imitating that of Ms. Taylor's.

MNG: The song itself feels so timeless. Sonically, how did it come together?

KJ: Honestly, the whole process for this song was pure magic. The hook came to me in a coffee shop one Saturday morning and I wrote and completed the song with my brother within a few minutes that same day. My brother, Allen Mattox, produced the track in such a genius manner that combined a classic bass line with some modern production elements that really gave it that timeless flare.

MNG: The music video looks like it was a lot of fun to make. In it, you recreate different moments from Taylor's career while fiercely destroying gender norms. Why did you choose to take on the role of Elizabeth Taylor yourself?

KJ: Elizabeth is my queen and the idea to take on the role of her came naturally to me. But it also was a conscious decision, as you mentioned, to combat gender norms. Queer representation at this moment in history is vital - it is a matter of life and death. In the political era we are currently in, we are at war for the well-being and future of our community and it is mandatory that we are as loud and rowdy as possible. Adults in the LGBTQ+ community have a responsibility to raise their voices and be the representation that every queer kids needs at this moment in history.

MNG: How did you pick the moments from her career to recreate?

When selecting scenes to recreate, we tried to choose the most iconic and recognizable moments from her career. We wanted to do everything we could to catch people's attention so that the song and its message could reach as many people as possible.

MNG: What was your favorite scene to film?

KJ: Cleopatra - hands down! I felt absolutely stunning in that outfit and the set was so beautiful. The Cleopatra segment also served as the transitional moment in the song where I realized my self worth in the midst of so much turmoil. So while it is my favorite scene aesthetically, I also am quite fond of it because of the part in the story line that it conveys.

MNG: As a queer artist, how do you hope to impact the LGBT community?

KJ: My goal is all about representation. Growing up, I didn't see myself in the media or in anyone around me. I grew up in a very straight, conservative, toxic and abusive environment. I had many moments where I questioned whether life was worth living because I felt like I had no hope. I had no one to look at to know that life could get better. And there are presently many queer kids are still dealing with these same unfortunate circumstances. So my goal is to dominate the entertainment industry in the loudest way possible and be the artist that I wish I had growing up.

MNG: What would you say to your fans, or anyone listening or watching?

KJ: Thank you, thank you, thank you! It may sound cliche, but your support and response means so much. Please continue to share, stream and support the project in any way possible!

For all of Kodi James’ latest news and updates, follow him on social media:

Facebook: facebook.com/KodiJamesMusic

Instagram: @kodijamesmusic

Twitter: @KodiJamesMusic

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