Episode 20: James Kennedy

James Kennedy is a singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, record producer, record label owner, public speaker and now published author of his memoir, Noise Damage: My Life As A Rock ’n’ Roll Underdog. He babbles with Rob Simcox, a Babble co-founder who will be heading up Babble’s music interviews. 

Formerly the singer/guitarist from the political alternative rock band KYSHERA, James has been releasing music since 2002 as both a band member and as a solo artist. James’ musical back catalogue includes noise music, acoustic, prog rock, grunge, MOR, experimental electronic and orchestral music, making him a particularly unique figure on the modern music scene. Almost all of the instruments on his seven albums as well as all of the production, has been performed by Kennedy - no small achievement considering his 40% hearing loss due to childhood ear surgery.

His book is part-memoir, part-expose, and lays bare the struggles of navigating the music industry. The wit and James’ capacity for self-reflection makes Noise Damage relatable for anyone in or out of the musical world, and without ever needing to lean on cliche, it tells a powerful tale of overcoming adversity.

Rob Simcox is working on his career in the sound/audio industry. Robert is the sound engineer and audio editor for Babble, who uses his knowledge and experience to ensure all the audio across our platform is as smooth as possible for the audience's ears.