After years performing with Costa del Sol band The Rabbit Holes, Malaga-born singer-songwriter Sami James is going solo. With new music in the pipeline, a high-profile producer behind him and plans to reach audiences beyond Spain, he tells Euro Weekly News about the next stage of his musical journey.
You’ve recently brought your time with The Rabbit Holes to an end. Why is now the right moment to concentrate on your solo career?
“After a long spell with the band, Sami is turning his attention to his own songwriting and the music he wants to put out under his own name.” The Rabbit Holes played their final concert at Louie Louie Rock Bar in Estepona on September 26, bringing that chapter to a close.
Developing solo work
“The move gives me the chance to focus on original material and develop my personal identity as a solo artist, rather than spending so much time performing songs written by other people.”
Does that mean a change in the way you perform live?
“Live music is still a big part of my plans. I have a regular biweekly slot at H10 Estepona Palace and performing as a duo with his two individual bands with guitarist Emilio Lopez or percussionist Javier Tejada at venues along the coast and further inland”.
More local dates are being discussed, as well as performances in Gibraltar and bookings for Christmas and New Year. There are also ongoing conversations about gigs in the UK, with the possibility of opening for another artist.
With a little help from the pros
Your latest single, Sundown, was recorded with Eliot Kennedy. How significant has that collaboration been?
“The single was produced at Kennedy’s Steelworks Studios in Sheffield and released on his own ‘Novello Records’ label.” Kennedy is already well-known for his work with major acts including Take That, the Spice Girls and Bryan Adams.
The collaboration has also resulted in two other tracks, both recorded at Steelworks and planned for release in 2027. That gives Sami new material to introduce to audiences as he develops his solo career.
You’ve also brought in a new publicist. What are you hoping that will achieve?
“I’m now working with Mike at Matrix Promo, whose previous clients include major names such as Dua Lipa. The online promotional campaign is in its second month, raising awareness of both me and the Sundown release.”
The wider goal is to build the Sami James name as a recognisable musical identity, helping his original songs reach listeners much further afield than the regular Costa del Sol circuit.
How will your fans be able to follow what’s going on with ‘Sami James’?
“A new website and merchandise shop are in the pipeline, giving fans another way to keep up. The online store is expected to offer records on vinyl, T-shirts and other merchandise. With more music already recorded, the intention is to create a dedicated online home for the project and make it easier for listeners to find and buy releases.”
Already in the pipeline
What does success look like for you over the next year?
“With two new singles planned for 2027, live performances continuing in southern Spain and discussions about UK dates under way, I’ve got several avenues to explore.”
His immediate focus is on developing his solo identity, getting the new music heard and building an audience for his own songs. After the end of The Rabbit Holes, the next chapter is about finding out how far that original material can take him.