Like many musicians, Graeme James turned to busking out of necessity.
Over the past four years his high-energy performances have proved popular in Wellington and they've also provided inspiration for his latest endeavour - an album of original music.
He says the key to success is to offer something unique.
"There's not many people who want to hear 'Wonderwall' played as 'Wonderwall'," James says.
"Nothing against the song - but I'm just going to walk straight past."
The Wellington musician has taken 'unique' to the extreme.
His act revolves around a loop pedal which allows him to build songs live, adding layer after layer.
Take Outkast's classic 'Hey Ya' for example - he starts with guitar, adds some strummed electric violin, a dash of bass and a touch of vocals, then tops it off with more violin for good measure.
The resulting dish is best served on a warm Wellington afternoon.
"You got to do something fresh and give people a reason to stop," James says.
Cuba St is where he cut his teeth as a busker - and it's provided plenty of inspiration for his first album of original music.
"There's a lot of songs that were written right here on Cuba St."
News From Nowhere is an album that clearly has its roots in his street act, but it's also a bold departure from the comfort of cover songs.
"There's a risk in it, but there's also a reward in it, because there's that degree of connection," James says.
"Nobody's like, 'Man, when you play Seven Nation Army, what's that like for you?' because I write the song."
He may be a rookie when it comes to releasing original music but one thing he has mastered, is pulling a crowd.
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