Music should be driven by passion, not expectations: James

Rock icon James believes music should be pursued for love, passion and personal fulfilment rather than with expectations of gaining something in return.

James, widely known as Nagar Baul, made the remarks at a press conference ahead of his upcoming concert for expatriate Bangladeshis in Sweden on September 6.

“There is no point in making music with the expectation of getting something in return,” James said. “Music should come from passion and obsession, and for one’s own peace of mind. If something is achieved through it, that is a different matter. Even if I had gained nothing, I would have continued making music.”

Reflecting on his long career, James said his musical journey began in Chattogram in the early 1980s as the guitarist and vocalist of the band Feelings. The band released its debut album, Station Road, in 1987.

Over the decades, James has remained one of Bangladesh’s most influential rock performers, captivating audiences with his distinctive voice and musical style.

Speaking about changing generations of listeners, James said he had never consciously viewed his audience as changing over time.

“Whenever I stand on stage, I feel as though everyone in front of me is the same audience as before,” he said. “Now I realise that I have been able to perform for several generations.”

James and his band are scheduled to return to Bangladesh on September 22 after the Sweden concert.