‘I was getting down with a guy and he decided to put on One Love. It was creepy’: Duncan James from Blue’s honest playlist
The Blue singer thinks Aqua deserve respect and his mum once did karaoke with a legend. But what record did he buy to please his nan - with mixed results? The song I inexplicably know all the lyrics to Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis – the song I sent off on tape as my audition to Blue. The song I do at karaoke I had my 30th birthday party in a karaoke bar above a Chinese restaurant. My mum was doing It’s Raining Men by Geri Halliwell, just as Geri herself walked in, so she grabbed her, brought her on stage, and went: “Sing. It’s your song.” I thought: “Mum. She’s just arrived. Chill out!” Continue reading...

Duncan James, the Blue singer, recently shared an intimate look into his musical journey through his "honest playlist." The list, which includes a mix of personal favorites and surprising choices, reveals a lot about his eclectic taste and unique experiences with music.
James begins by expressing his respect for Aqua, the Danish pop group known for hits like "Barbie Girl" and "Doctor Jones." He acknowledges that their music might not be everyone's cup of tea, but he believes they deserve credit for their contributions to the pop landscape. This sentiment is a testament to James' open-mindedness and appreciation for diverse musical styles.
One of the most intriguing aspects of James' playlist is the song he bought to please his grandmother. The track in question is "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley. James admits to knowing all the lyrics by heart, a fact that surprises even himself. He recalls sending this very song as his audition tape to Blue, the British pop group he co-founded in 2001. This choice highlights his early admiration for Elvis and his ability to connect with classic songs.
James' love for karaoke is evident in his playlist, as he mentions a memorable experience from his 30th birthday party. The celebration took place in a karaoke bar located above a Chinese restaurant. His mother, who is clearly a fan of Geri Halliwell's music, chose to perform "It's Raining Men." Just as she took the stage, Geri Halliwell herself walked into the bar. Seizing the moment, James' mother invited the pop star to join her on stage, prompting an impromptu duet. James recalls feeling a mix of excitement and embarrassment at his mother's bold move, but it undoubtedly made for an unforgettable night.
Through his honest playlist, Duncan James offers a glimpse into his personal and professional life, showcasing his musical journey and unique encounters with the industry. From his respect for Aqua to the mixed results of trying to please his grandmother, James' story is a testament to the power of music to bring joy, surprise, and memorable experiences.







