Josh Raines, formerly known as Josh Wienczkowski, has been weaving through the music industry in various capacities for years, but it’s clear that he’s found his voice as a soulful, alternative artist. His journey from pop-rock band beginnings to a polished Nashville-based producer is evident in the way his music now glows with both a nostalgic charm and contemporary freshness. With early influences like Creedence Clearwater Revival and Motown, it’s no surprise that Raines’ sound feels like a nod to the past while still pushing forward. You can hear it in his melodies and the lush arrangements that give his songs an almost timeless quality.
“North Star,” his debut single, captures this balance of old and new beautifully. The track, produced and mixed in his home studio, draws from natural imagery to explore the stages of love, with sultry guitar hooks and a rhythm that grooves effortlessly. His soulful tenor voice is restrained for most of the track, saving its full power for the climactic final chorus, a choice that makes the song feel both intimate and expansive. Raines himself insists that the music needs to “bop, groove, and be life-giving,” and this ethos is felt in every layer of the track, from the subtle hooks to the vivid lyricism. His use of alliteration and thoughtful prose adds depth to the storytelling, always searching for the silver lining in life’s complexities.
There’s also a deeper emotional layer to his music, one that connects not only to his artistic process but to his personal life as well. His decision to change his artist name to Josh Raines was a tribute to his wife, Kayla, who has been a constant source of support for his creativity. By adopting her last name, he’s symbolically tying his music and personal journey together, completing a full circle. It’s a sentiment that mirrors his approach to songwriting—deeply personal but ultimately relatable.
Balancing life as a practicing physician specializing in mental health and addiction recovery, Raines’ dual identity brings a unique perspective to his work. He often reflects on how music serves as his own form of therapy, just as he helps others with their mental health. This duality of being both a healer and an artist adds depth to his creations, making his music more than just a collection of songs—it’s an emotional release, a coping mechanism, and a celebration of life’s ups and downs.
“North Star” isn’t just a love song; it’s a reflection of the balance between chaos and calm, much like Raines’ own journey. It’s a track that pulls you in with its smooth, groove-laden melodies and keeps you hooked with its honest, heart-on-sleeve lyricism. Whether you’re a fan of singer-songwriter sensibilities, indie experimentation, or retro vibes, Josh Raines’ music is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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