A Quick Chat with James Keith
James Keith finds joy in life's simple moments on This Life, a heartfelt country-pop anthem that celebrates love, gratitude, and finding home in the people who matter most. The Orange-born, Northern Beaches-based singer-songwriter blends warm guitars, feel-good hooks, and subtle touches of Australiana into a track that radiates optimism while serving as the final preview of his forthcoming sophomore album I Call It Magic When I'm With You. Following the chart success of his debut album Life Is Good Today, James continues to carve out his own lane with honest storytelling and an unmistakably down-to-earth charm. We caught up with James Keith to talk about This Life, the new album, and what’s next.
Can you tell us what this track means to you and what you want people to take away from it?
"This Life" is about finding someone who just makes life better. It's about those little everyday moments that don't seem like much at the time, but they're actually the best parts of life. If people hear it and it makes them think of someone they love or makes them smile, then I've done my job.
Who are some of your influences, and why?
Luke Combs for his honesty, Zac Brown Band because they're incredible musicians, Coldplay for the way they create emotion and a positive euphoric atmosphere, Morgan Wallen for the songwriting and Matty Healy from the 1975 for his frontman skills. I love music that makes you feel something, whether it's in a stadium full of people or just sitting in your car.
What's the creative process for you, from writing through to recording?
Normally starts with one line or one idea that won't leave me alone or a message I really want to get across. I'll sit with a guitar and build a strong melody, then build a song around that. Once I think it's got something, I'll keep chipping away until every line feels right. Sometimes I change lyrics as I'm recording the vocals. Then it's into production to bring it to life. That's my favourite part because you finally hear what's been in your head for months, and you become addicted to it.
What do you think makes a great song?
Melody, melody, melody first for me. A great song makes you feel something. It doesn't have to be complicated. If people remember the chorus, sing it back to you and connect with the story, you've probably done something right.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
Luke Combs would be unreal. He's stayed true to who he is, writes songs that people genuinely connect with, and he seems like the sort of bloke who'd be good to have a beer or 1000 with after the show. But also, Chris Martin and Coldplay what I would give to be on that stage with him.
When not working on music, what other creative outlet/s do you have?
I actually own a landscaping business, so I spend a lot of time designing outdoor spaces. It might sound completely different to music, but they're both creative. You're taking an idea and turning it into something people can enjoy for years.
Who are some local bands we should check out?
Australia's got so much talent. Definitely check out my brother Robbie Mortimer if you haven't already. There's a heap of great country artists coming through at the moment, and it's exciting to see the scene growing.
Winter or summer and why?
Summer purely for the longer days, I love a red hot fire on a cold day, but in the summer, you’ll find my fishing with my kids on the boat, strumming the guitar and spending 99% of my time outdoors.
What do you have planned for the rest of 2026?
It's a big year. This Life is out now, the second studio album I Call It Magic When I'm With You drops in October, and we're getting out to play as many shows as we can. The goal is pretty simple... keep writing songs, keep getting better and hopefully meet a lot more people along the way.