Rex James IV is no stranger to baring his soul through song. The Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter has captivated listeners with his honest approach to love and resilience, and his latest single, ‘Bulletproof Heart’, is his most vulnerable offering yet.
The track, which digs artfully into the painful experience of unrequited love, is a departure from the hopeful themes of his last release, ‘All That I Am’, and is already generating buzz among fans and critics alike. As Rex continues to share his personal journey through his music, we sat down with him to discuss his new single, his creative process, and the messages he hopes to convey through his art.
In this interview, we explore the inspiration behind ‘Bulletproof Heart’, his evolution as an artist, and the importance of staying true to his authentic voice.
It’s great to talk with you today Rex! You’ve had an impressive starting in music. But where did it all begin, and what inspired you?
“It really began with my first movie, ‘Mi Loca Quince’. I got the chance to record a duet with Izabellah Rae Diez, and that experience opened the door for me. From the moment I stepped into the studio, I fell in love with the atmosphere, and once I got on stage, the rush told me this was what I wanted to do.”
You have a new single out now and a music video on the way. Can you tell us a bit about your latest project and what it means to you?
“My latest project is called ‘Bulletproof Heart’. It’s really personal, it’s about being in a one-sided relationship where I gave her all my love, and she gave nothing back. Writing it was tough, but it helped me express those feelings and turn them into something people can connect with.”
Are there any artists, moments, or experiences that influenced you when writing the project?
“Definitely. Zach Bryan has been a huge influence on my songwriting and love for country, but personal experiences were the biggest influence for this project. I pulled straight from real feelings and moments in my life.”
What is your songwriting process? How does it all come together?
“For me, it always starts with lyrics. I usually get my feelings down on paper first, then work on turning them into phrases that resonate and flow with each other. From there, the melody falls into place.”
What’s the most important thing when you’re writing a song?
“Honesty. If it doesn’t feel real to me, I know it won’t feel real to anyone else.”
How would you describe your sound on the new single? Has there been a change or evolution in style since you first began?
“I’d describe it as country with hints of pop and rock. When I first started, it was more stripped-down and rawer, but now I’m leaning into a bigger, more polished sound while still keeping it authentic.”
Is there a central message or theme you were trying to convey in your latest release? Is there a moment in the release that really captures that idea?
“The main message is about self-worth knowing when you’re giving too much and not getting enough in return. The chorus of ‘More Than Words’ really captures that idea of not settling for less than you deserve.”
What advice have you sought from bands or artists who might be more established?
“Mostly about stage presence and staying true to yourself. I’ve always admired artists like Michael Jackson for their ability to own a stage, and I try to take pieces of that advice into my own performances, making the crowd feel connected.”
What has been your best moment as a musician so far?
“My very first performance with Izabellah Rae Diez, singing ‘Finally’. That moment will always stick with me; it was the start of everything.”
Is there anything you would like to say to our audience?
“I’d just like to say thank you for listening and supporting me. My biggest hope is that people can relate to my songs and feel like they’re not alone in what they’re going through. This is just the beginning, and I’m excited to share more with you.”
It's clear that Rex James IV is an artist on a mission. He's not just writing songs; he's crafting anthems for the broken-hearted, offering solace and understanding to those who feel unseen.
With ‘Bulletproof Heart’, he's once again proven his ability to turn personal pain into a powerful, relatable narrative. As he continues to grow both as a songwriter and a performer, Rex’s dedication to honesty and connection ensures that his music will continue to resonate deeply with audiences around the world. As he puts it, this is just the beginning, and we’re all invited along for the ride.
For more from Rex James IV, be sure to follow him on Instagram, Spotify, and YouTube.
