BATON ROUGE – For local musician Noah James, a lifelong dream has become reality. After years of dedication, perseverance, and an unexpected social media breakthrough, he has officially signed with Santa Anna Records, a label under Sony Music.
James’ journey in music began at an early age, deeply influenced by his father, a professional jazz drummer. Growing up in a household filled with rhythm and melody, he and his four brothers were immersed in music from the start.
“I’ve been singing my whole life, but I’ve also been playing instruments since I was young,” James shared.
However, his journey wasn’t without challenges. A heartbreaking loss temporarily silenced his passion. His beloved singing teacher, Lesli A. Wood, was tragically killed in a roadside accident in 2018 after stopping to help at a crash scene.
“She was absolutely amazing, the best teacher ever,” James said. “She believed in me and always told me I had something special.”
The weight of her passing led him to step away from music for a time. But years later, something within him reignited, pushing him back into his passion.
Viral Success Leads to a Record Deal
James turned to social media, sharing his voice with the world through TikTok and Instagram. It wasn’t long before his talent captured massive attention.
“For three years now, I’ve been singing and doing social media. Then, in October 2024, I posted a video that blew up—it got 6 million views and 800,000 likes.”
His momentum skyrocketed in December when he posted a cover of “Pink Skies” by Zach Bryan. The video amassed 28 million views and 3.8 million likes, catapulting him into the spotlight.
Record labels took notice. After being approached by multiple companies, James ultimately chose Santa Anna Records, the first label to reach out.
“It just felt right,” he explained. “Ever since, it’s been absolutely amazing.”
New Music and a Message of Faith
Now, James is stepping into his next chapter as a signed artist. His first single, “Set Free,” was recently released and holds deep personal meaning. Inspired by the story of legendary rodeo champion Lane Frost, James wrote the song after watching the movie 8 Seconds.
“He’s a Christian, and so am I,” James said. “For me, I wanted to create something that connected me to God. The song is about being set free—not just in life, but spiritually. It’s also about resilience, about never giving up.”
The song’s lyrics reflect that spirit:
“You can’t break my spirit, like a bull that’s full of steam, I’m set free.”
James’ mother, Tiany Davis, has been by his side every step of the way. She shared on Facebook:
“From the very beginning, God’s hand has been all over this. Every open door, every divine connection, every step—it’s all been guided by HIM. There’s nothing greater than placing our children in God’s hands and watching Him unfold a plan bigger than anything we could have dreamed.”
Watch the music video ‘Set Free’
Looking Ahead
As for what’s next, James plans to release more music soon, with another single dropping in April. By July 2026, he hopes to release his first EP, a five-track collection showcasing his journey and unique sound.
“This has been a dream come true,” he said. “And I know my music teacher is looking down on me, proud of what I’m doing now.”
From a young boy learning music in his family home to a viral sensation and now a signed artist, Noah James’ story is a testament to faith, perseverance, and the power of chasing one’s dreams.
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