Son of James rush-released their new single, “Mama Never Told Me” against the alarming rise of Asian-Canadian Hate Crimes
Son of James, the Vancouver, BC-based band has unveiled their new single, “Mama Never Told Me.” The track highlights the rise in discriminatory attacks against Asian Canadians during the Covid-19 pandemic
Dripping with heart and soul, “Mama Never Told Me” is a sonically smooth experience filled with soulful guitar playing and stellar saxophone work. Rich embellishments reveal themselves in the form of brilliant piano playing and soaring vocal performances. “Mama Never Told Me,” tells a relatable tale about the most important woman in our life with Son of James’ usual rhythmic complexity.
“Mama Never Told Me” finds its origin when Son of James founder Shon Wong noticed the alarming increase in Asian hate crimes as the pandemic raged on.
“The vigilante in me prayed that an attack on an Asian woman would happen right in front of me so I could exact vengeance for that woman right then and there.”
As if the world had stopped for that moment, the sudden realization of his mother’s own experience came flooding into view.
“Knowing what my mom and many other immigrant Asian mothers sacrificed and endured to make a life in a foreign country. It made me think of all things my mom never told me about her struggle until my father passed when I was 20.”
Fast forward to the month before Mother’s Day, and all of the elements seemed to fall into place for a musical tribute worthy of all mothers. The lyrics practically poured out through the tears and onto the page.
With the pandemic affecting the rest of the world, the recording process for “Mama Never Told Me” had to be re-strategized. A talented group of musicians brought the recording to life from the get-go. This included guitarist/bassist/pianist Adam Richards, accomplished cellist Michelle Kwan, and percussionist Jason Overy. Jonathan Reichert’s slick guitar fills and Eric Tsang’s hypnotic saxophone work hits you right as Jackie Nguyen breaks your heart with her enchanting vocal work. These elements create a rhythmic synthesis between art and life previously inexperienced by audiences.
Watch the video for “Mama Never Told Me” below, and stay up to date with Son of James via their socials.
ICYMI: We covered Son of James’ double single release in March, check it out here.
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