Singer James Hersey released his debut single ‘Miss You’ last month. Since then, ‘Miss You’ has quickly amassed over 2.5 million streams, and the success of the track is set to further sky rocket following the release of a poignant piano-led remix from electronic soul duo HONNE.
The original version features nods to the dance world, however, HONNE have transformed ‘Miss You’ into a softer, piano driven track. Whilst we love the original, there is something pretty special about this remix too.
Of the remix, HONNE explained, “This remix came so easy. As soon as we heard James’ vocal we came up with that gentle rhythmic piano part that runs throughout. Something that never ceases to amaze us is how new chord sequences can add to or shift the sentiment of lyrics, and we really enjoyed playing with that for this.”
‘Miss You’ was co-produced by James alongside Will Hicks (Ed Sheeran) and mixed by Stephen Fitzmaurice (Sam Smith, Disclosure, Mary J. Blige). It’s a deeply personal offering which deals with the idea of connections between people. From this song alone, it is evident that James has a talent for delivering songs which will strike a chord with anyone who’s ever experienced heightened emotions.
Of the track, James said: “I wrote and produced the first draft of ‘Miss You’ in two virtually sleepless days and nights. Three days later I was on a plane to England to cut (and finish writing) what is now my debut single. It was like windsurfing, when you catch the right gust at the right moment and you’re catapulted forward by this incredible, invisible force. That’s what it feels like to write music you love.”
Take a listen to the original version below.
Whilst ‘Miss You’ is James’ debut single, fans of dance music may already be familiar with his vocals. ‘Coming Home’, James’ delicate, summer-tinged ode to delayed desires, is a song that received many superstar remixes. Initially remixed by Filous, garnering 26 million Spotify streams, it was then reworked by Kygo and Dillon Francis, which led to a staggering 74 million streams and counting. The track’s success led to James touring Europe with Kygo, and it even caught Tiesto’s attention, who offered him a remix.
Ever since he was a child, James’ childhood was filled with music. Guitar lessons were augmented by impromptu family music concerts, and the house reverberated to the sounds of Bob Marley, Grateful Dead, Michael Jackson and even some hip hop.
James is an artist who is happy to explore musical genres, as demonstrated by his varied taste in musical artists. With a talent for classic songwriting, James’ songs work in many different musical contexts. We can’t choose a favourite between the original ‘Miss You’ and HONNE’s remix, but what we do know is that his music is versatile and both versions are golden to our ears.
Share your thoughts on the two versions of James Hersey’s ‘Miss You’ on Twitter @CelebMix.