Tuesday, 8 December 2015

James Whetherley

The media students at Bath College had the pleasure of being visited by Grammy nominated producer, James Whetherley on Tuesday (24th November). He talked them through the whirlwind of a life and career he’s enjoyed so far. From the day he was born and flunking high school, to his major successes like making music videos for Oasis, Beyonce and Robbie Williams. Even to producing at the Glastonbury festival, a series of Later… with Jools Holland adverts starring Daniel Craig.
He gave the students many pointers from his hands on experience. Such as advice on making music videos, to working with a crew and a tip to always getting jobs: Always be nice to everyone. After his presentation we opened to floor to questions, here are a few excerpts:

Q• What inspired you to get into this industry?
A• That would be my passion for music and for film. And I guess this is how I merge them together. I've always dreamed of being in a band, but I can't sing or play any instruments so that wasn't going to happen!

Q• What piece of work are you most proud of, and why?
A• I am most proud of the series of Later… that I produced. I had a great office to come into every morning and I got to meet incredibly talented artistes from all around the world.

Q• What would be your dream artiste to make a music video for?
A• I think that would be Disclosure. Because they're young, modern and relevant. I think they’re really talented and I can't actually believe how they make such genius music yet they're so young!

Q• What was it like to be nominated for a Grammy?
A• Oh it was one of the proudest moments of my life! I remember it vividly. I was working for a huge architectural firm not too far from here in Bath. At that point I had drifted away from the film and music video industry. But my dad got a letter through the post (my mail still gets delivered to him) which he thought looked important. The letter had ‘Grammy Nominee’ typed onto it. I was so confused and excited all at the same time! Inside it said that I was nominated alongside Madonna for a music video that I had made quite a while back for an alternative country singer in America. Of course Madonna won, but I'm still incredibly proud of what I achieved.

1 comment:

  1. You've got the essence and tone of James's talk, as well as some crucial points and good anecdotes.
    Would've been good to see a little more expansion eg. why was he Grammy nominated? - but good effort.

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