Jim Glennie, the steadfast bassist and sole original member of the iconic indie pop band James, has weathered the storm of rock ‘n’ roll life with a little help from the Scottish town of Ullapool. As a seasoned musician who has ridden the waves of Madchester, Britpop, and witnessed the evolution of the music industry into the digital era, Jim credits Scotland with providing crucial support during their formative years.
“Outside of Manchester there’s no place that’s been as devoted to us as Scotland,”
reflects Jim. In those early days when uncertainty loomed over their musical journey, playing gigs in Scotland was like a breath of fresh air for James. The enthusiastic reception and genuine love from Scottish fans gave them the much-needed affirmation to persevere.
“We must be doing something right,”
Jim recalls feeling during those pivotal moments.
The road to success was not without its share of challenges for James. From lineup changes to label disputes, they navigated through turbulent waters before hitting commercial highs in the 90s with chart-topping hits. Despite disbanding in 2002 and staging a comeback later on, James continued to captivate audiences with their infectious melodies and thought-provoking lyrics.
Reflecting on their unexpected chart-topping success with their 18th album
“Yummy”
, Jim expresses his surprise and joy at still connecting with fans after all these years. The accolades are not just about numbers but about the enduring bond between the band and their loyal listeners.
Amidst the whirlwind lifestyle synonymous with being part of a renowned band like James, Jim found solace in Ullapool’s serene surroundings. His deep-rooted connection with this picturesque Scottish town began during a holiday visit years ago and eventually led him to make it his home for more than two decades. The tranquil beauty of Ullapool became his sanctuary—a place where he could unwind and recharge amidst nature’s embrace.
The scenic drive from Inverness back to Ullapool served as a therapeutic ritual for Jim, easing away the stresses accumulated on tour. The tranquil landscapes acted as a balm for his weary soul, allowing him to rejuvenate both physically and mentally before diving back into the music world’s chaos.
Despite past turmoil within the band and personal struggles that almost derailed their journey, James remains committed to creating new music that resonates with old fans while attracting new audiences. Their dedication to evolving artistically sets them apart in an industry often driven by nostalgia rather than innovation.
Looking ahead to future projects including a new album in progress, Jim emphasizes the importance of staying relevant by embracing change and eschewing complacency. For him and his bandmates, each album represents a fresh chapter—an opportunity to push boundaries creatively rather than resting on past laurels.
As they gear up for upcoming gigs like Pavilion Festival in Ayr curated by DJ Ewan McVivar amidst an uncertain festival landscape post-Covid restrictions, Jim acknowledges the challenges faced by both artists and fans alike. The universal need for collective experiences like festivals underscores their significance beyond mere entertainment—they serve as beacons of joy amid dark times.
Jim advocates for greater governmental support for creative arts programs that can uplift communities and provide hope—especially for disadvantaged youth seeking avenues for self-expression through music or other artistic endeavors. His firsthand experiences performing at prestigious venues like Greece’s Acropolis theatre underscore how art transcends boundaries and fosters unity among diverse audiences.
In essence, Ullapool stands not just as a physical location but as a symbol of resilience, renewal, and artistic inspiration—a testament to how even rock stars like Jim Glennie find solace amidst life’s tumult through unexpected havens like this quaint Scottish town.
