WATCH: Seth James, “Moonpies”

Artist: Seth James
Hometown: New Braunfels, Texas
Song: “Moonpies”
Album: Different Hat
Release Date: August 27, 2021
Label: Tiny Ass Records

In Their Words: “‘Moonpies’ is a true story about the new girl in town who walks to the beat of her own drum. That being said, I wouldn’t let the truth get in the way of a good story. I planned to finish this song with Delbert McClinton, but he said, ‘You know, I think it’s done — I might change this one little line here.’ So when it came time to put the record out, I reached out to him about his publishing information and he said, ‘You’re out of your mind.’ So, according to Delbert, I wrote the song by myself. It’s a fun song — and pretty bizarre, musically. It’s kind of half Howlin’ Wolf, half Burt Bacharach.” — Seth James


Photo credit: Erin Valkner Photography

LISTEN: Seth James, “The Time I Love You the Most”

Artist: Seth James
Hometown: Austin, Texas
Song: “The Time I Love You the Most”
Album: Good Life
Release Date: August 23, 2019
Label: Cherry Bomb Records

In Their Words: “Dobie Gray has always been one of my favorite singers of all time. When I was young I learned every song on the Drift Away album. ‘The Time I Love You the Most’ was the one that stuck with me after all of these years. In recording ‘The Time I Love You the Most,’ we really made an effort to stay true to the original while also leaving room for our stamp. We made sure to lean forward with the tempo to keep the same sense of urgency as the original. Between [drummer] Lynn Williams’ groove, Kevin McKendree’s driving piano and Bob Britt’s rhythm, the track had no choice but to move like a freight train. It is still one of my favorite songs to play live, especially when we add in the horn section.” — Seth James


Photo credit: Todd Purifoy