By: Jay Feldman

In the world of music and glamor, where the limelight often overshadows personal lives, James Southern’s story stands out as a beacon of selflessness and familial love. Known for his electrifying performances and iconic stage presence, Southern, the charismatic frontman of a popular punk band based in Hawaii and San Diego, made a decision that left many in the industry and his fanbase in awe.

A Rising Star

James Southern, with his band, had been on a meteoric rise in the music scene. Their unique sound, blending raw punk energy with catchy hooks, captivated audiences across the globe. However, life, as it often does, presented a situation that would test Southern’s priorities and ultimately define his character in a way no stage ever could.

A Family Crisis

Just as the band’s success was peaking, Southern received devastating news: his mother had been diagnosed with a severe cancer. For many, the natural response might have been to delegate her care to professionals while continuing the pursuit of fame and fortune. Yet, Southern’s deep-rooted values and the love he had for his mother led him to make a different choice. He decided to put his flourishing career on hold and return home to be by her side. It was a decision that surprised his bandmates, his fans, and the entire music industry.

The Weight of the Decision

Southern’s decision was not an easy one. Walking away from the brink of stardom meant leaving behind not only a promising career but also the financial security that came with it. With his claim to fame and the adulation of fans came with significant sacrifices. Yet, for Southern, the choice was clear.

Fan Questions

Reporter: Who were your major musical influences growing up?

James: Growing up I was immersed into the punk rock scene, skateboarding with my friends and going to shows in Southern California. My biggest musical inspirations were bands like The Casualties, Leftover Crack, The Exploited, & Charged GBH. We were punk rock kids looking for beer, a fight & a good time. To this day I still look up to guys like Jorge, Meggers & Jake Casualty from The Casualties, Stza from LoC, & guys that have made music consistently over the years that stayed true to their roots while navigating the treacherous Politically Correct movement that has stifled so much art for fear of cancellation.

Reporter: Is James Southern single or taken?

James: Haha, I am single, but I’m just focused on being a good father to my two children Achilles & Cadence & making music I would like to listen to. Girls are space aliens I’ve never quite understood.

Reporter: James, you mentioned not having a father growing up in a previous interview, how do you think that has affected you growing up & what advice would you give to those in a similar situation?

James: It was really hard & had left some deep-rooted pain. It caused my mother & I to go homeless at points, & forced me to work a job way too young to help my mom when I was a kid. There were times that we wouldn’t have food for weeks at a time, and would survive on top ramen & water. It was hard seeing this guy live a wealthy lavish life, meanwhile leaving my mother & I for dead with not even a care. Now that I’m a parent, I can never imagine just abandoning my kids & leaving them homeless, especially if I had the financial means. The advice I would give is that if you grew up in a tough situation like me, just promise yourself you will be a better dad & person when you get older. Even though it’s hard, forgive them so that you can move on. Luckily, I had a super mom that always did her best while working two jobs to make me feel like at least to her, I was worth sticking around for. At least to someone, I mattered. I want my kids to never feel worthless and abandoned the way I was made to feel.

Reporter: What’s next for James Southern?

James: Well, right now I’m working on releasing a cover song of a buddy’s band, & after that I plan on making a return to my punk rock, speed metal, ska roots & finding a label home.

Reporter: James, is there anything else you want your long-time fans and supporters to know?

James: Just that I appreciate all the support, and it got me through some dark times I probably wouldn’t have made it out of without all the letters and kind messages. To me, my fans are my family; I don’t even like using the word “fans.”

Reporter: Do you have any regrets turning down a six-figure music contract to stay home and help your mom?

James: No regrets. I would give it all up in a second for my mom. Money, material items, and prestige all mean nothing to me. How could I abandon her when she was all I had when I was abandoned? I never want to be a celebrity or a sell-out. I just want to stay true to my punk rock roots, inspire kids with my music the same way my idols inspired me, & be a good father. I could do without all the fame, ego, and out-of-touch lifestyles that you see today on full display. I’m no one special, just a kid from San Diego who loves the punk rock scene that saved my life as a kid & gave me a place to be accepted just as I was.

Reporter: James, it has been a pleasure, thank you for the interview as we know, they are very rare.

James: Thanks, guys!

Published by: Nelly Chavez