Singer-songwriter James Leclaire gets everyone singing along with his latest single, “Are You Ready?”
Manotick, Ontario-based folk artist James Leclaire released his sixth single “Are You Ready?” from his ambitious and unique project where he is releasing a new song each month for the next three years.
After the shocking end to his 23-year marriage in 2020, Leclaire recorded an astounding 37 songs that encapsulate his heartbreak and journey as he navigated through many new life experiences.
“My sorrowful songs were always written from a fictional place or as a witness to others pain. Now it was my sorrow, my pain, my wound, and it caused my pen to bleed ink and my guitar to cry chords,” says Leclaire.
To assist on the project, the Renfrew, Ontario born folk singer-songwriter amassed an all-star team of seasoned musicians that have worked with artists such as Norah Jones, the Doobie Brothers, and Neil Young. The contributors include guitarist Kevin Breit, drummer Ed Toth, guitarist and pianist John Fraser Findlay, harmonicist Mickey Raphael, and many other local musicians.
“Are You Ready? describes all the ups and downs that one will face while chasing the thing that they love. It enforces the idea that good things are always worth fighting for. Am I ready? I sure am.” says Leclaire.
With a chorus highlighted by backing vocals inspired by 80s metal, combined with the grounded folk and alt-country sensibilities of the musicianship and Leclaire’s life experiences, “Are You Ready?” creates an acoustic driven track with melodies that make it impossible to ignore. Leclaire’s gruff vocals add a sense of urgency and emotion that expels his emotional lyrics like a memorable punk sing-along.
Leclaire’s newest work comes after a hiatus that saw him not perform or record new music for over five years. After his life was turned upside down and finding new life experiences and a new relationship, Leclaire had an overflow of inspiration which resulted in kickstarting his return to music.
The first monthly single, “Things That I Said”, was released in August 2023. Each new monthly song has a different surprise and “Are You Ready?” is one that will get audiences singing and moving.
