Duncan James Unveils His Candid Musical Diary: Karaoke, Heartbreak, and Party Anthems
In a revealing interview, Duncan James, the renowned singer from the pop group Blue, shares the songs that have shaped his life, from childhood memories to awkward romantic encounters. His honest playlist offers a glimpse into the personal soundtrack behind the fame.
The Audition That Started It All
James recalls that the song he inexplicably knows all the lyrics to is Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley. This track holds special significance as it was the song he sent off on tape for his audition to join Blue, marking the beginning of his musical career.
Karaoke Chaos with a Celebrity Twist
For karaoke, James has a memorable story from his 30th birthday party, held in a karaoke bar above a Chinese restaurant. His mother was performing It’s Raining Men by Geri Halliwell when Geri herself unexpectedly walked in. In a bold move, his mum grabbed the pop star and brought her on stage, insisting she sing her own song. James humorously thought, “Mum. She’s just arrived. Chill out!”
A Risqué Purchase for His Gran
The first single James bought was influenced by his time with his grandparents, as his mother worked as a nurse. His gran complained that pop music hurt her ears, so he asked a friend to buy something from Woolworths that would be acceptable. The friend chose Sadeness (Part I) by Enigma, a track featuring Gregorian chanting and a sensual section with a woman sounding as if she’s having an orgasm—hardly the innocent tune his gran expected.
Childhood Crushes and Emotional Triggers
James remembers falling in love with Fantasy Island by Tight Fit as a child, jumping on the sofa and doing twizzles in the air, possibly because his “little gay self” was enamored with the guy in the zebra print headband from the video. On a sadder note, the song that makes him cry is My Life Is Going On by Cecilia Krull, the title track from the Spanish Netflix series La Casa De Papel (Money Heist), which he watched during lockdown and considers one of the best shows ever.
Awkward Romantic Moments and Life-Changing Hits
When it comes to sex, James had a creepy experience with a one-off partner who played One Love by Blue. He protested, “Why would I want to make out listening to my own voice?” and insisted the music be changed immediately. Reflecting on his career, the song that changed his life is All Rise. Initially recorded with a tough, staccato style over a hardcore beat in Norway, the finished version surprised the band by becoming a worldwide hit and sparking Bluemania.
Party Anthems and Secret Guilty Pleasures
For parties, James loves musical theatre and admits, “If someone plays Defying Gravity from Wicked, I’ll be up on a table.” He also harbors a secret fondness for Doctor Jones by Aqua, a cheesy track he defends as a great record, even if it makes others question his musical taste.
Songs of Sadness and Final Farewells
James can no longer listen to Meu Abrigo (My Shelter) by the Brazilian group Melim, as it reminds him of an ex and brings sadness. For his funeral, he chooses Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen, praising it as one of the greatest songs ever written and a left-field option to avoid something sad and gloomy, noting, “You don’t want too much drama as you’re being cremated.”
Current Projects and Tour Details
Blue’s new album, Reflections, is out now, and the band is touring the UK from 7 April to 26 May, offering fans a chance to experience their latest music live.
