Singer-Songwriter Simon James’ 2023 has started with a bang as he achieves viral success on TikTok with his unique re-write of Miley Cyrus’ latest single ‘Flowers’.
The lyricist’s distinctive remix vocally spars with Miley throughout the 40-second clip, offering his own reply to the hit written from Miley’s ex-husband Liam Hemsworth’s perspective.
Simon’s take has already reached over 2.3 million views, with 144.2k likes, 5.2k comments and over 1,300 videos created using the unique sound, growing daily.
Many in the comment section are calling for the double Grammy Award winner to record a duet with Simon, or for the Irish artist to release the full version of the re-write himself, watch this space!
When speaking about the unexpected viral fame, Simon says “’I never could have imagined my TikTok video would hit 2 million views! It started with me humming the call and response melody to the song in the car, then I sat down to record it and instantly knew what direction to take it. From start to finish including recording, filming, and editing the video, it took only about two hours. The concept was super clear to me which doesn’t always happen. It was hard to fall asleep that night as every time I refreshed my phone it was jumping up thousands of views a minute. Seeing that number on the screen even now feels surreal!”
Simon’s TikTok notoriety isn’t the only positive start to 2023 as his latest single, 27, an empowering anthem drawing from his own inspiration fighting for a career in the music industry as an independent artist, was recently named “Track of the Week” on RTE’s 2fm. The single, which is a motivating track that resonates with anyone who has ever felt they were not good enough or futile in chasing their dreams, was gifted the accolade by presenter Laura Fox during her recent weekend show.
When speaking about his successful start to the year, Simon says “From going viral on TikTok to achieving 2fm track of the week all within a few days of each other couldn’t have been a better way to kick start off the year! It has just given me more drive and excitement to create and release new music”
Simon’s music is available to stream via Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3kHI4gB and Apple Music – http://bit.ly/3HApBeP
About Simon James
Dublin native, Simon is no stranger to the arts. Before embarking on his musical journey, young Irish creative Simon James, then known as Simon O’Driscoll, has long been a staple in Irish film and theatre, making his acting debut at the tender age of six years old, playing the role of ‘Cathal’, Veronica Guerin’ son in the film of the same name, staring alongside Cate Blanchett, Brenda Fricker & Colin Farrell. Simon continued to act throughout his adolescence, from a long-running stint as Oisin Brennan in Fair City to a critically acclaimed lead role of Christian Kelly in Roddy Doyle’s Oscar-nominated short film ‘New Boy’ and supporting role as Finbar in Oscar-nominated Pentecost, written and directed by Peter McDonald.
Simon’s transition into music was an easy one. Throughout his childhood, Simon gravitated towards music and performing. From joining Billie Barry Stage School at 5 years old, which lead to 3 stints performing in Dublin’s iconic Gaiety Theatre, to taking up piano lessons at 8, it was clear to all that Simon was destined for the stage.
It was Simon’s entry into the 2010 Coca-Cola sponsored “School Stars” competition in the TLT (Tommy Leddy Theatre) Concert Hall in Drogheda which propelled his music career. Performing an original song for the Grand Finale, Simon took home second place, with a plethora of opportunities ahead. From supporting Keywest, Ryan Sheridan, X Factor finalists District 3, The High Kings and Jedward, among many more, with an array of covers and original music.
In 2017, Simon released his debut EP ‘Back To When’, produced by the acclaimed Philip Magee, (Kodaline, The Blizzards and The Script). Simon has since experienced success with his follow-up singles and performances in which he continues to showcase his versatility and talent as a songwriter and performer.