COMMISSION ME!

I could wang on at length about why I’m great and why you should get me to write for you. But why not read what these people have to say about me instead!


“A fearless writer. James doesn't just put something of himself in his work, he puts everything. It's a rare thing that too few writers have the bravery to do. And he's funny. That's a hell of a dynamic!”

Paul McNamee, Editor, The Big Issue

“James puts his heart and soul into writing - he’s a true fan and that never fails to come across in his words.”

Tim Jonze, The Guardian

 

“James McMahon was one of the music journalists who made me want to be a writer. Later on, once I'd met him, he was a colleague whose work made me want to be a good music writer…”

Alex Miller, Chief Creative Officer, Vice 

 

“Any fool knows passionate writing is the best kind of writing. James is passionate about so many different things it can feel exhausting trying to keep up, and yet everything he does is anchored by an ability to make you care. If the subject is weighty there's a lightness of touch, and if it's already light then you can expect some properly smart LOLs. That's passionate, smart, dynamic and funny! Everything you need really.”

Michael Cragg, The Guardian

I’ve worked with James for years, from when he was a young writer at the NME and Metal Hammer and then in more recent years as the editor of Kerrang! James has always been a pleasure to work with… honest, transparent, creative and extremely professional. All of this is delivered with heaps of enthusiasm and passion and ideas. James is never afraid to take risks - especially important in the changing climate of publishing and media.”

Phoebe Sinclair, music industry legend

“James McMahon was born to write. His words are vividly energetic, immediate and fearlessly honest. He writes because he has to write, and that makes his readers some of the luckiest to have found him.”

Eve Barlow, journalist

 

“A great writer. Great and also brave.”

Hamish MacBain, Deputy Editor, Evening Standard Magazine

 

“I followed James on Twitter because I always found his honesty and openness rare and refreshing. After he went freelance, I didn't hesitate to get in touch and invite him to join the team. His interviewing skills are second to none, and he writes with skill and empathy.”

Shahesta Shaitly, Deputy Editor, Observer Magazine

 

“James’ writing brings a smile to my face. It is intriguing, revealing, informative and funny, while he infuses even the saddest of subjects with life. Unquestionably one of the most talented writers around, his writing - and there is no bigger compliment - is a conduit for joy.”

Louise Mayne, music industry legend

 

“James has an authentic voice. He writes with urgency and passion. Whether that's about a mental health crisis or music, you can always hear his voice.”

Jess Phillips, Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley

 

“When we both worked at NME, I thought of James as the one person on earth whose writing was smart, powerful and funny enough to convince me I needed to read about music I’d already decided was terrible. And, in the intervening years, his diverse interests and talent for bringing them to life have introduced me to even more areas I didn’t realise I wanted to know about!”

Peter Robinson, Popjustice

“I’ve known James for over a decade, and worked closely with him throughout his time at Kerrang! As an editor and writer, his passion and creativity shine through everything he does. Constantly inventive and always seeking fresh ideas and ways of presenting great content, he’s a skilled and talented individual, with many strings to his bow!”

William Luff, music industry legend

 

“I’ve always enjoyed Jam’s writing. Warm, disarming, smart – and very, very funny when it wants to be.”

Krissi Murison, Editor, Sunday Times Magazine

 

“After you read what James McMahon writes about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, you’ll never casually describe yourself, or anyone else, as ‘a bit OCD’. But he does it in such an engaging, relatable and – yes – funny style, that you’re left with a far greater understanding of the condition than when you began.”

Simon Price, journalist