Joshua J’s journey through music is one of profound reflection and growth, shaped by personal loss and the pursuit of understanding. His first album, 1998, marked a pivotal moment in his life, released six years after his grandmother’s passing. The project was both a tribute to her and an exploration of his childhood in foster care, a raw and unfiltered narrative that resonated deeply with listeners and earned acclaim from renowned outlets such as Pitchfork, Wonderland, and Vice. This body of work established Joshua as a powerful storyteller, intertwining his experiences with emotive, guitar-driven neo-soul.
The release of 1998 propelled Joshua into the spotlight, opening doors to tour with artists like Boyz II Men and Anderson .Paak. His single “Lock My Door” caught the attention of Dr. Dre, landing a spot on the producer’s ‘Beats of the Week’ playlist, further cementing his reputation as an artist to watch. When the pandemic put life on pause, Joshua used the time to refine his craft, eventually emerging with Better Times in 2021. This project showcased a transformed Joshua J, one who had begun to heal from the grief that defined his earlier work. Infused with Afrobeat rhythms and the soulful warmth of his Caribbean heritage, Better Times was a celebration of growth and resilience, offering glimpses of love, identity, and self-acceptance through his rich sonic palette.
His latest single, “In My Phone,” continues this narrative of introspection, diving into the complexities of addiction and absence that marked his upbringing. The song reflects on his mother’s struggle with substance abuse and Joshua’s journey toward forgiveness and understanding. It’s an unflinching yet tender portrayal of pain and reconciliation, set against the backdrop of his signature blend of Afro-Caribbean rhythms and neo-soul melodies. The accompanying music video elevates the story further, introducing a masked figure to symbolize his father, a Ghanaian musician whose existence Joshua only recently discovered. Through this visual storytelling, he honors both parents, grappling with the intricate layers of identity and heritage that have shaped his life.
Joshua’s ten-track album, Polygamy, represents a culmination of his journey toward self-discovery. Inspired by time spent in Ghana, the project is a vibrant celebration of his African and Caribbean roots, enriched by the cultural influences of Amsterdam, his home. Each track feels alive, weaving personal experiences with danceable grooves and poignant lyrics. From rhythms that pulse with life to melodies that linger long after the final note, the album is a testament to Joshua J’s evolution as an artist and as a person. It is the sound of healing, of stories unearthed and told with unflinching honesty. As always, his voice remains the anchor, a guiding force that brings his deeply personal narratives into a universal space where listeners can connect, dance, and reflect.
Socials:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshuaj_music
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/joshuajmusic