Native James has released his powerful new single, Never Been Scared, marking the beginning of a new chapter after signing with SharpTone Records.
Featuring grime icon Frisco, the track blends Native James’ unmistakable mix of rap, rock and metal with a message of resilience and self-belief. Built around an infectious hook and driving energy, Never Been Scared is about pushing through life’s challenges, whatever form they take.
Speaking about the single, Native James explained that the song is for anyone facing a difficult moment, whether that’s chasing a personal goal, overcoming setbacks or simply finding the strength to keep going.
Native explains, “Never Been Scared is what it says on the tin. This song is for people who have felt a time where they need to overcome something, whether that be your personal best, an exam, getting up to to face challenges at work, life itself… it’s a power play to your internal, to remind yourself you can overcome whatever you want.”
Fans have already had a taste of the track live. During his Download Festival performance earlier this summer, Native surprised the crowd by bringing Frisco on stage for the song’s live debut, creating one of the festival’s standout collaborations.
Alongside the new release comes the announcement that Native James has joined the SharpTone Records roster, alongside artists including Loathe, Unpeople and Dying Wish. The signing marks another significant milestone for the Ipswich artist as he continues to build momentum.
SharpTone Records say, “We are beyond excited to welcome Native James to SharpTone. From the moment we first saw his incendiary performance in a tiny basement in East London, we just knew that we had to find a way to work together and be a part of his story. Native embodies everything that we strive for here at the label; originality, personality, and pure goddamn talent. We cannot wait to amplify that talent in what will inevitably be a very bright future.”
It’s shaping up to be another busy festival season too. Following appearances at Download, Native James is set to perform at 2000trees, Latitude and festivals across Europe, while also continuing to build on recent support slots with bands including Enter Shikari, Don Broco and Nova Twins.
17.7 – Nice’N’Sleazy, Glasgow (Headline)
18.7 – Cowgate Block Party, Edinburgh
24.7 – Latitude Festival, Suffolk
1.8 – Outcider Festival, Bristol
7.8 – Secret Island Festival, Colchester
The past year has already seen Native James earn a MOBO Awards nomination, perform at Glastonbury and release his EP Confessions Of A Sinner, continuing to grow a reputation as one of the UK’s most exciting genre-blending artists.
With Never Been Scared leading the way and a new label behind him, this feels like the start of an exciting new chapter for Native James—one that’s likely to introduce his music to an even wider audience.
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