Noah James
- Caitlen Odell
- Sep 15, 2025
- 4 min read
Noah James is a young local Baton Rouge musician who has found viral success online with his videos. His journey is a story of roots, resilience, and faith. Shaped by a musical family, inspired by Louisiana’s rich musical culture, and strengthened by both loss and redemption, Noah has emerged with a voice that resonates far beyond Baton Rouge. With his EP release show set for this week, he reflects on his musical upbringing, his faith-driven message, and what it means to come full circle and celebrate this milestone in the city where it all began.
Caitlen: Your father is a Jazz drummer, yet your music leans country. Tell us more of your story of growing up surrounded by music, the lessons you learned from your family, and how those early rhythms still echo in your own sound.
Noah: Growing up, I was surrounded by all kinds of music, and that really shaped who I am as an artist. Michael Jackson was my favorite, but my dad would also introduce me and my brothers to the legends- Stevie Wonder, Prince, and so many others, teaching us about the different elements that make music powerful. I actually started out on electric bass, and of course, being around my dad’s jazz drumming had a huge influence on me too. Jazz isn’t just from him, though, it’s in the culture of Louisiana, especially in New Orleans. That sound has stuck with me, and it even shows up in my new song that’s coming out soon, where my dad played drums and added a little Mardi Gras feel to it.
Caitlen: Your Christian faith is a central thread in your life and your music. When you write and perform, what message do you hope listeners take away, both spiritually and emotionally?
Noah: My faith is such a big part of who I am, so it naturally shows up in my music. Country music has always been about storytelling, and for me, those stories usually point back to hope, redemption, and finding light even in the middle of hard times. When people hear my songs, I want them to feel encouraged and reminded that God’s still with them no matter what they’re walking through. Spiritually, it’s about sharing the love of God, but emotionally, it’s also about connecting on a human level, through the ups and downs we all face.
Caitlen: After the heartbreaking loss of your music teacher, you stepped away from music for a time. What was it like finding your way back to singing and performing, and how has that journey shaped the songs you write today?
Noah: Losing my music teacher was really tough, and after that I stopped singing for a few years. Eventually, I decided to pick it back up, and once I did, I threw myself into it- working at it every day and night, trying to make her proud. In a way, I’m still trying to make her proud to this day. That experience gave me a deeper drive and a stronger purpose, and it’s something that continues to shape the songs I write and the way I perform.
Caitlen: Your cover of ‘Pink Skies’ went viral last year, putting you suddenly in the spotlight. What’s been the most surprising part of this rapid rise, and how do you stay grounded amid the attention and excitement?
Noah: I really couldn’t believe it when that cover blew up, because I had actually covered the same song a few months before and it took off too, getting over 6 million views and more than 800,000 likes. The response this time around was just incredible, especially hearing from people who connected with the song and told me how much they loved the way I sang it. It truly felt like a blessing from God that the video reached so many people, and I’m just grateful for the way it opened doors and allowed me to share my voice with a bigger audience.
Caitlen: Your EP release show is happening this Thursday in your hometown. What does it mean to you to share this milestone with Baton Rouge where your journey began?
Noah: Having my EP release show in Baton Rouge means everything to me. This is where I grew up, where I first fell in love with music, and where so many people have supported me since the very beginning. To be able to share such a big milestone back home feels like things have come full circle. It’s not just about celebrating the music, it’s about celebrating the community that helped shape me and the journey I’ve been on to get here. Getting to stand on stage in my hometown and share these songs with the people who’ve believed in me from day one is something I’ll never forget.
Noah James’ music is a testament to hope, perseverance, and the belief that God is present in every note. As he takes the stage in Baton Rouge for his EP release, it’s clear this is only the beginning of a journey that will continue to inspire and connect with listeners near and far.
Don’t miss Noah James’ EP release show this Thursday, September 18, 2025, at The Station Sports Bar & Grill at 7pm. Plus, follow Noah on Instagram at instagram.com/noahjamezmusic to stay updated on his latest shows and music.
Written by Caitlen Odell
Founder & Owner, Red Stick Music
Caitlen curates the Red Stick Music live music calendar with a focus on excellence, integrity, and community building. She’s passionate about supporting local artists and strengthening Baton Rouge through music.
