Negative comments can’t break James Wright

James Wright

While he is primarily a singer, GMA 7 artist James Wright also has his sights on acting.

He has been dutifully going to auditions for different drama series, the latest of which were “Meant to Be” and “My Love from the Star.” He came out empty-handed both times, but that, he stressed, did not discourage him from trying again.

“As a newbie, you’re always optimistic—you always think that you can do this or that role. But, the people behind the shows know more than you. I don’t feel too bad. Perhaps they aren’t right for me,” he said at a recent press conference for his new EP, “Just Wright.”

James, who is Filipino-Australian and has been staying in the Philippines for the past three years, is fully aware that the local music industry isn’t as robust as it once was—one reason he’s compelled to try his hand at other fields in the biz.

“I love singing, but if the chance to act comes my way, why not? Everything comes at the right time,” related the 21-year-old talent, who vowed to further improve his ability to speak in Filipino.

Should he land a plum role in a soap, James said he would be happy to be paired with anyone. But his biggest crush, he admitted, is Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach. “She’s my type. I have yet to see her in person, though,” he said.

He may not have snagged the lead role in “My Love,” but James did get a consolation of sorts: He was chosen to record the theme song of the Philippine adaptation of the said Korean drama. “I feel flattered to be entrusted with this responsibility,” he said.

The song, “My Destiny,” which is included in James’ EP, was originally sung by Korean R&B vocalist Lyn. Although some local fans find James’ rendition refreshing, some purists think that the piece does not fit a male voice.

There has been some bashing, he admitted.

“It’s normal for anyone to have an opinion and freely voice it out in social media,” he said, adding that he has gone through worse things. But negative comments won’t break him. “I can’t change what they think. But I can strive harder and make them give my work a second look.”

Among the six tracks in “Just Wright,” James’ favorites are the lively pop tune, “Open Up,” and the smooth R&B jam, “Please Come Back.”

“I love jazz and heartfelt ballads,” said James, who joined the reality talent search, “Anak Ko ’Yan,” in 2013.

Asked if he is open to showing some skin onstage, James said: “I’d like to express sexiness through my voice.”