James Arthur has opened up in the wake of his split from his on/off girlfriend of seven years.
Just weeks after his relationship with Jessica Grist came to an end for good, James has said that he has used this personal experience in his creative process.
The X Factor winner in 2012 has experienced the ups and downs of fame since then but as he moves into his 30s, he is now laying firming foundations to cope with what life throws at him.
The singer said that one of his biggest challenges has been to break free from the musical 'box' he has been placed in by fans and the expectations for how that will sound.
Speaking to The Sun, James said: "I put a lot of myself into the music, a lot of my story, but the hope is it will help other people too."
James said that with his fans wanting "storytelling" and "love stuff" but he us trying to "dress it up in a cooler way."
He has had some struggles with mental health since winning Simon Cowell's talent show and is now an ambassador, helping to raise the profile of what help is out there.
Speaking about how he uses his profile, James said: "Uncomfortable as it makes me feel to talk about my personal struggles, I’ve seen how helpful it can be so I’ll continue to do it, whether through music or interviews.”
He added that now that he is in his thirties, he is in "a bit more in control of it" and now "enjoys the ride" more than he used to.
James added that he is trying new styles and that he is “making a bit of a transition stylistically."
He concluded: "I guess I’m finally confident enough to go my own way.”
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