🇺🇸 An Intimate Talk with Sarah James: The Guitar-Slinging Voice Behind Take It or Leave It

Hailing from Pittsburgh, Sarah James is more than just a singer-songwriter — she’s a storyteller, a guitar enthusiast, and an artist who lives her truth, no apologies. With her latest single Take It or Leave It making waves, Sarah opens up about her inspirations, her creative process, and the passion that fuels both her music and her project, Vintage Guitar Legacies. We had the pleasure of catching up with Sarah right after the release of her new song.

Hi Sarah, thanks for taking the time to chat with us! How did you first get into music? Was there a defining moment?

Sarah James: Oh, absolutely. I’ve been surrounded by music since I was a kid, but I vividly remember this one night when I was about 12. My mom took me to see a folk group perform at a college gymnasium — just four musicians with acoustic guitars, a stand-up bass, and a banjo. I was mesmerized by their harmonies, the energy between them, and the way the crowd connected. Right then I thought: That’s what I want to do. That moment really set me on this path, and after that, it was a whirlwind of musical influences, from the British invasion to punk and bands like The Cure and U2.

What inspired Take It or Leave It? Where did that spark come from?

Sarah James: The song came from reflecting on my own journey — that deep realization that I don’t owe anyone an explanation for who I am. It’s about embracing yourself fully, flaws and all, and saying: This is me — take it or leave it. There’s a spiritual undertone too; if someone wants to question me on those grounds, that’s between me and the universe. I wanted the track to feel like a powerful rock-pop anthem, and thanks to my producer Aaron Howard, we really captured that energy.

Can you walk us through your songwriting process?

Sarah James: It’s very heart-led for me. I write from my own experiences and emotions. Lately, working with Aaron has helped me shape my ideas into more structured songs. Sometimes it starts with a melody, other times with a lyric that hits me out of nowhere. But no matter what, it’s always about telling a story or sharing a feeling that I hope others can connect with.

Tell us more about Vintage Guitar Legacies. What’s the idea behind it?

Sarah James: It all began when I looked around my studio and realized how many vintage guitars I had — some of them with incredible histories. I thought it’d be amazing to share these instruments and their stories with other enthusiasts. So Vintage Guitar Legacies was born — it’s a community where people can celebrate these guitars, their music, and the artists who played them. We’re even partnering with places like the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix!

Do you have a favorite guitar brand?

Sarah James: I wouldn’t say I have a favorite brand. I’m drawn to each guitar’s unique voice. That said, I really admire the work of luthier Jim Olson. His guitars are just magical — truly next-level craftsmanship.

What’s one item you absolutely can’t live without each day?

Sarah James: A guitar pick! I’ve got them everywhere — in my purse, pockets, even the washing machine sometimes! And of course, my notebook for scribbling down song ideas.

What were the last three songs you listened to today?

Sarah James: Jason Isbell’s If It Takes a Lifetime, Smooth Operator by Sade, and Jaded by Heroic Enthusiasts.

Is there a phrase that sums you up?

Sarah James: “When she goes after anything, she’s all in.” That’s actually a line from a song I co-wrote called She Tries — it really speaks to who I am.

Stage or studio — what’s your happy place?

Sarah James: Definitely the stage. That’s where I come alive — I love feeding off the energy of the crowd, sharing the joy of live music. The studio is important, of course, but it feels more like work to me. The stage is pure magic.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists?

Sarah James: Never give up. Surround yourself with people who support your vision, stay true to who you are, and don’t let comparison steal your joy. Remember: No music, no life — and Keep going.

What are your goals for 2025?

Sarah James: I want to keep writing, producing, performing — just staying true to my path without getting caught up in comparisons or numbers. I’ve got a five-song EP coming this fall and plans for more live shows and Vintage Guitar Legacies events. I’m just excited to see where the road leads!

Any final words?

Sarah James: Thanks so much for this chat. And to anyone out there chasing a dream: stay focused, stay passionate, and trust the process. The universe has a way of opening the right doors at the right time.

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