Shawn James – New Zealand Tour October 2025
Christchurch • Wellington • Auckland
For the first time ever, acclaimed American singer-songwriter Shawn James is bringing his powerful, soul-stirring music to New Zealand. Known for his raw vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and a genre-defying blend of folk, blues, rock, and soul, Shawn has captivated audiences around the globe.
Following a massive international tour and the rise of his hit song "Through the Valley" -featured in the critically acclaimed The Last of Us series - Shawn is thrilled to announce his debut run across Aotearoa.
Catch him live this October for three unforgettable shows:
Wednesday, October 15 - Loons, Christchurch
Thursday, October 16 - San Fran, Wellington
Friday, October 17 - Double Whammy, Auckland
Tickets are on sale this Friday the 30th of May at 1:00 pm
Pre sale starts tomorrow, Thursday the 29th of May at 1:00 pm
Don't miss this rare chance to experience the intensity and emotion of Shawn James in an intimate live setting. Tickets are expected to move fast - secure yours now!
"Hey there, this is Shawn James. I’ve had way too many writers think they could sum me up & relay what I’m about from an hour long conversation so they could write my “bio” but I’ve had it. Screw that. I’ll tell it in my own words.
I was born & raised in Chicago, Illinois. I grew up on the south side of the city where I attended a gospel church. I was always around a lot of heartfelt soulful music & hardworking, real, down to earth people. Although I no longer abide by any religion, I value the times I had and how they shaped me to be what I am now. I’ve moved around quite a bit living in all different parts of the US.
While absorbing all sorts of different cultures from here & around the world, I’ve developed my own sound. I started releasing my own music in 2012 and haven’t stopped since. I play a wide range of music from folk to blues, r&b, Gospel to rock, metal & alotta things in between. The main constant amongst all the genres would be that it’s all done with emotion, feeling, heart & a lotta soul. I mean what I say & deeply feel what I play.
I play covers of songs I dig sometimes and although some people may only know me because of those, I’m hardly just a cover artist.
If you come see me play live and expect just one style or aspect of what I do, you may be disappointed to learn that our shows are a roller coaster of emotions, musical styles, intensity & energy. I get bored easily & love to mix things up. Be ready & bring your ear plugs just in case..
I’ve always been the underdog so to speak since I’ve never had the backing of a large record label, big marketing firm or massive PR company & I truly like it that way. I feel as though I’ve earned what I have through hard work, determination, a good bit of luck & the great relationships with people I’ve made along the way. I’ve learned a lot of lessons the hard way being in this “music business industry” and that’s alright by me.
I’ve seen that with your support (the listeners out there) I can make my wildest dreams come true.
If you want to listen to an artist that’s authentic, genuine & original then you’ve come to the right place. I hope you enjoy the music & will join me on this journey that I’m so extremely grateful to be on.
Thank you all so very much.
Love,
Shawn James"
Also check out other Arts events in Wellington, Music events in Wellington, Literary Art events in Wellington.
