Are you a James fan looking for the ultimate listening experience? Then you’ve come to the right place! This list dives deep into the discography of the incredibly talented James, exploring the songs that have resonated most with fans and critics alike. Finding the definitive "best songs by James" is a subjective journey, but we're here to guide you through some of the most iconic tracks that defined his career and continue to captivate audiences. From soulful ballads to electrifying anthems, this curated selection offers a diverse exploration of his musical genius. Whether you're a longtime devotee or a curious newcomer, prepare to rediscover the magic of James' music and perhaps find your new favorite song. Get ready to embark on a musical adventure that will leave you humming along for days! This isn’t just a top 10; it’s a carefully chosen selection representing the breadth and depth of his incredible work. Let the music begin!
| Song | Listens |
|---|---|
| 1. Getting Away With It | 13M+ |
| 2. Sometimes | 12M+ |
| 3. Laid | 9M+ |
| 4. Born of Frustration | 7M+ |
| 5. Say Something | 6M+ |
| 6. Moving On | 4M+ |
| 7. Sit Down | 4M+ |
1. Getting Away With It - 2025
Driving Rhythm: "Getting Away With It" boasts a propulsive, undeniably catchy rhythm that keeps you engaged from start to finish, a hallmark of James' best work.
Tim Booth's Vocals: Tim Booth's distinctive vocals are at their most captivating here, delivering a performance full of raw emotion and controlled power.
Nostalgic Vibe: The song evokes a specific time and feeling, making it a perfect addition to any playlist dedicated to the best of James' back catalogue, resonating with fans for its timeless quality.
2. Sometimes (James)
Sound: "Sometimes" showcases James' signature blend of soulful vocals and smooth, atmospheric production, creating a laid-back yet captivating soundscape.
Vocals: James' emotive delivery is particularly striking on this track; his phrasing and control are masterful, conveying a depth of feeling that resonates with listeners.
Emotional Impact: The song's melancholic yet hopeful tone makes it a perfect choice for introspective listening, evoking a sense of quiet contemplation and bittersweet nostalgia.
3. Laid
Smooth Vocals: James' effortlessly cool vocals are a hallmark of "Laid" delivering a relaxed yet captivating performance that perfectly embodies the song's laid-back vibe.
Groovy Rhythm: The track's irresistible groove is infectious, making it ideal for those seeking a feel-good listening experience among James' best works.
Timeless Quality: "Laid" transcends trends, retaining its charm and appeal years after its release, solidifying its place as a staple in James' discography.
4. Born of Frustration
Driving Rhythm: "Born of Frustration" boasts a relentless, propulsive rhythm that keeps you engaged from start to finish, a hallmark of James's best work.
Raw Emotion: The song's power lies in its unflinchingly honest portrayal of frustration and anger, making it incredibly relatable and emotionally resonant.
Vocal Performance: James's vocal delivery is raw and powerful, perfectly capturing the song's intense emotional core and adding to its overall impact.
5. Say Something
Sound: "Say Something" boasts a lush, atmospheric soundscape, built on layered instrumentation and a driving rhythm that perfectly complements James's emotive vocals.
Vocals: James delivers a raw, vulnerable performance, conveying a palpable sense of longing and heartbreak that resonates deeply with listeners. His vocal control and emotional range are truly showcased here.
Emotional Impact: The song's melancholic yet hopeful tone, combined with its relatable lyrics about lost love and the desire for connection, creates a powerful emotional resonance that makes it a standout track in James's discography.
6. Moving On (James - 2025)
Catchy Melody: "Moving On" features an instantly memorable melody that gets stuck in your head in the best way, showcasing James's knack for crafting truly earworm-worthy hooks.
Emotional Resonance: The song perfectly captures the bittersweet feeling of letting go, making it deeply relatable to anyone experiencing a significant life transition.
James's signature sound: This track exemplifies James's signature blend of soulful vocals and upbeat instrumentation, a sound that has cemented his place among music lovers.
7. Sit Down
Driving Beat: "Sit Down" boasts an instantly recognizable, propulsive rhythm that's both catchy and undeniably powerful, making it perfect for energetic moments.
Anthemic Vocals: Tim Booth's soaring vocals add a layer of emotional intensity, transforming the song into a communal experience – a key component of James' best work.
Enduring Appeal: Its blend of raw energy and memorable melody ensures "Sit Down" remains a staple in James' discography and a highlight for fans discovering their music.
8. Fred Astaire
Smooth Vocals: James's effortlessly cool vocals glide over the track, creating a sophisticated and laid-back vibe that's instantly captivating.
Upbeat Rhythm: The song boasts a subtly infectious rhythm that keeps you moving without being overly energetic, perfect for a feel-good mood.
Nostalgic Charm: "Fred Astaire" possesses a timeless quality, evoking a sense of classic cool that makes it a standout track in James's discography.
9. Just Like Fred Astaire (James)
Sound: "Just Like Fred Astaire" boasts a sophisticated, subtly jazzy sound that's both smooth and undeniably catchy, showcasing James's musical range.
Vocals: James's vocals are effortlessly cool and charismatic on this track, delivering the lyrics with a relaxed confidence that adds to the song's overall charm.
Rhythm: The rhythmic interplay between the instrumentation and vocals creates a captivating groove that's both elegant and infectious, making it perfect for repeated listens.
10. Waltzing Along
Sound: "Waltzing Along" boasts a crisp, upbeat tempo with a driving rhythm section that perfectly complements James's signature vocal style.
Vocals: James's vocals are particularly strong on this track, showcasing his emotive range and effortless control.
Emotional Impact: The song's infectious energy and optimistic melody create a feel-good vibe that makes it a perfect addition to any feel-good playlist.
11Come Home
James
1990
12Lose Control
James
1990
13Nothing But Love
James
2016
14Ring the Bells
James
1992
15Runaground
James
1998
16Destiny Calling
James
1998
17Seven
James
1992
18How Was It for You
James
1990
19I Know What I'm Here For
James
1999
20Beautiful Beaches
James
2021
21Out to Get You
James
1993
22Interrogation
James
2014
23She's a Star
James
1997
24Is This Love
James
2024