This year is set to be massive for former X Factor boyband Union J. They have just wrapped their UK tour, and are gearing up for the release of their brand new album. The LP will be the first with new band member Casey Johnson who replaced George Shelley last year.
Here we talk exclusively to Union J member Josh Cuthbert about the bands new sound, last tour, new music, and so much more.
You and the boys have just wrapped up your latest tour, what was the best city you performed in?
I have to say all of the shows were amazing. I always find that the more north you go the crazier the crowds are. This was the case this tour, however the best city was London (which was also the final date of the tour), they were incredible and there were a thousand people who made a lot of noise!
Your new music went down extremely well on the road, when can fans expect a new single?
A new single is coming soon, we are working hard with management to make sure the single we bring out is the best possible one!
Your new album is also due for release this year, what can the JCats expect from it?
A current cool sound that they can dance there arses off to! Haha.
You’ve said in the past that your new music is now more like Justin Bieber’s, what made you want to change your direction?
Its just happened naturally. We loved our old music however we are now doing music we truly love singing and performing. It’s also important to sound current!
How has the group dynamic changed since Casey replaced George?
It hasn’t changed too much to be honest. We will always miss George and he remains a big part of our lives and a big part of The Union J journey! Casey has fitted in very well.
If you could collaborate with anyone who would you choose?
Its gotta be Mr Ed Sheeran! His new album [Divide] is incredible and i would love to write a song with him and learn from (in my opinion) one of the most creative/talented writers ever.
You and the boys have a big announcement coming up over the next two weeks or so, can you give us a few more details?
It’s all hush hush right now! So I can’t say.
You have written a lot in America for the new record, can your US supporters expect to see more of you in the States this year?
Yes 100%. We are planning on finally branching out of the UK, and the US is a big part of our plans.
Since Union J formed what has been the biggest highlight of your career?
We have so many. We are so lucky to have done so many amazing things.
My personal favourites are:
-performing in front of 80 thousand people at Wembley
– when our single “You Got It All” went to number 1 [in the physical charts. The track peaked at number 2 on the UK charts].
– getting through from the judges houses on X Factor to the live shows.
You recently took part in ITV 2’s Release The Hounds, would you like to do more TV work in the future?
We love doing TV shows! Especially challenging ones like Release The Hounds and also it’s great doing TV shows where you can win some money for charity!
You all rose to fame on X Factor, so what would be your dream judging line-up for this year?
Simon Cowell has to be in it. Because we love him and he was a great mentor to us…. Louis [Walsh]! The third and fourth are tough. I’d like to see Gary Barlow back or get someone new like Robbie Williams.
What do you hope to achieve in the next ten years?
I personally have lots of ambitions. However as a band we would love more success in the music industry and to have longevity. And also still be as close as we are now and enjoy doing what we do! Life’s too short to not love your job!
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