Joshua J has released his latest single, “Blessings” featuring Xenia Manasseh, available now on all streaming platforms. This soulful ballad reflects Joshua J’s journey of self-discovery and captures moments from his past that have significantly shaped him.
The track blends highlife and afrobeat elements, showcasing Joshua J’s multi-heritage roots and reinforcing his essence as an artist. Produced by Ketta, known for his work with WurlD and Isabèl Usher, ‘Blessings’ features the talents of Xenia Manasseh, who has collaborated with artists like Mr. Eazi, Tay Iwar, and Sauti Sol. Together, they create a poignant narrative about the complexities of a dwindling relationship and the pain of misplaced trust.
Joshua J’s life has been marked by significant challenges, including his mother’s addiction and never meeting his father, which led him into foster care at an early age. Despite these hardships, he channels his experiences into resilience and personal growth, using his music to convey his journey.
“I’ve gone through a lot of setbacks in my life and always tried to make the best out of those situations. Doing this makes you more powerful and resilient. I try to see the blessing in every situation and try to keep smiling ‘cause I can always reference back to a worse scenario,” shares Joshua J.
Born in Rotterdam and moved to St. Martin at six months old, Joshua J’s earliest musical memories involve his grandmother’s toy piano. His return to the Netherlands at one and a half years old, due to his mother’s struggles, saw him placed in foster care, where music became his primary form of expression.
Joshua J’s debut album, 1998, released six years after his grandmother’s passing, reflected on his upbringing and paid tribute to his mother. The album received acclaim from major outlets including Pitchfork, EARMILK, Complex UK, and VICE.
Following the success of his debut, Joshua J toured as a support act for artists like Anderson .Paak, Saba, and Col3trane until the pandemic halted live events. While his earlier music focused on dancehall, hip hop, and barebones R&B, his new sound demonstrates a deliberate shift towards a broader range of genres, reflective of his diverse creative approach.
“Blessings” featuring Xenia Manasseh) is released via Joshua J’s label CMP (Custom Made Passion), marking another milestone in his evolving musical journey.
Listen to “Blessings” below and experience the blend of resilience and musicality that defines Joshua J’s work.
#Peace.Love.Blesssings
