British artist James Hype took an unconventional stage—Harvard University—where he shared his journey from spinning records in clubs to inspiring the brightest minds at the world’s top institution. In an intimate and eye-opening masterclass, James discussed his creative process, his rise to fame, and the challenges of navigating the music industry.
“I never went to college, and now I’m here at Harvard”
James began, setting the tone for a candid conversation about breaking norms and redefining success.
James reflected on his breakout moment in 2017 when his music earned him global acclaim and a contract with Warner Music. While the milestones were life-changing, he emphasized the sacrifices behind the scenes: over 160 performances a year, sleepless nights, budget flights, and the relentless pressure to keep up. “Mental health matters,” he shared, shedding light on the often-unseen struggles of a career in the spotlight.
A highlight of the discussion was James’s advice on creativity. He emphasized the importance of finding an authentic sound and leveraging social media to connect with global audiences.
“The more visible you are, the more criticism comes,” he noted. “But the key is to amplify your voice, not to respond to every comment”
James expressed admiration for the students he met at Harvard, confessing, “I thought Harvard was only for rich and smart people, but what I saw were exceptional people. Their stories inspired me as much as mine inspired them.”
During the session, he took students back to his first encounter with music—discovering a mixer at a church fair at just nine years old. That moment sparked a lifelong passion that carried him through creative blocks, stylistic evolution, and his ongoing pursuit of authenticity.
For those who could not attend, the full masterclass is available to watch here: James Hype Masterclass at Harvard.
James Hype Upcoming Tour Dates:
- May 10 – AYU Dayclub, Las Vegas, NV
- May 15 – AYU Dayclub, Las Vegas, NV
- May 16 – 11:11, El Paso, TX
- May 16 – EDC Las Vegas 2025, Las Vegas, NV
- May 23 – Sefton Park, Liverpool, UK
- May 23 – Radio 1’s Big Weekend, Liverpool, UK
- May 24 – HQ2 Nightclub & Beach Club, Atlantic City, NJ
- May 26 – FWD Day + Nightclub, Cleveland, OH
- May 30 – El Patio Fusion Lounge, Dorado, Puerto Rico
- May 31 – Project Glow, Washington, DC
- June 6 – The Concourse Project, Austin, TX
- June 7 – Zouk Nightclub, Las Vegas, NV
- July 5 – The Brooklyn Mirage, Brooklyn, NY
