Who: Kristopher James

From: Tampa, Florida

Song: ‘Love You Better’

Latest Record: Kindness Never Quits (September 13)

Kristopher James’s voice is powerful and immediate. He can belt, he can croon, he can really elevate a song with his delivery. His latest record, Kindness Never Quits, puts his voice front and center but we should also listen carefully to the fantastic band on this record–the production takes a lot from classic Motown and Muscle Shoals and does so without being an imitation. This is the real deal.

We’re so happy to share “Love You Better,” which features a kicking horn section and the full range of Kristopher’s voice. Give it a listen and check out Kristopher’s inspiration for the song below!

“It came about after a conversation I had with a gentleman of color, leaving a store. We passingly commented about the day, while going in – crosses paths again at the check-out line – more small talk, and as we were leaving I asked how his day went, what was the best part. He said “I’m still alive.”

We then talked more about his life as a man of color, especially in the current cultural climate. I asked about how I could be a better advocate and his response was the catalyst for the song. He said: “Learn to love people better – get to know them.” Since then, I’ve taken that to heart. In every conversation and encounter – learning about the person and their day-to-day, can help me “love them better.”