Joji is the stage name of George Kusunoki Miller, a Japanese-Australian singer, rapper, songwriter, and producer. He began his career as a YouTube content creator under the alias Filthy Frank, but eventually transitioned to music under the name Joji.
Joji’s music is known for its emotional depth and vulnerability, blending elements of lo-fi, R&B, and alternative music. His lyrics often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and introspection, with a focus on the struggles of mental health.
Joji’s debut album, “Ballads 1”, released in 2018, peaked at number one on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop chart and was praised for its experimentation and emotive sound. His second album, “Nectar”, released in 2020, features collaborations with artists such as Diplo and Omar Apollo and reached number three on the Billboard 200 chart.
In addition to his music career, Joji has also pursued acting and comedy, having appeared in the TV series “The Filthy Frank Show” and the feature film “20th Century Women”. With his unique blend of emotional vulnerability and musical experimentation, Joji has become a rising star in the alternative music scene.
10. Daylight
“Daylight” is a melancholic and introspective ballad from Joji’s debut album “Ballads 1”. The track features gentle piano chords, sparse percussion, and Joji’s soulful crooning about the struggles of coping with heartbreak and loss. The song builds gradually towards an emotional climax with layers of lush instrumentation and rich harmonies. The lyrics express a deep longing for a lost love and a desire to hold on to a glimmer of hope for reconciliation. Overall, “Daylight” showcases Joji’s talent for crafting emotive and atmospheric music that connects with listeners on a deeply personal level.
9. TEST DRIVE
“TEST DRIVE” is a moody, introspective single by Joji, the Japanese-Australian musician, singer-songwriter, and former YouTube personality. The track is characterized by its dreamy, atmospheric production, Joji’s evocative vocals, and its melancholic lyrics. The song explores themes of heartbreak and loss, as Joji grapples with the end of a relationship and the uncertainty that comes with starting anew. The track’s sparse instrumentation and ethereal soundscapes create a sense of isolation and detachment, underscoring the emotional weight of the lyrics. “TEST DRIVE” is a haunting and emotionally charged song that showcases Joji’s talent as a songwriter and his ability to create music that is both introspective and deeply affecting.
8. WorldStar Money (Interlude)
“WorldStar Money (Interlude)” is a soulful and melancholic track by Joji, released in 2017. It features a simple yet catchy piano melody, with Joji’s emotive vocals flowing effortlessly over the top. The lyrics speak of a desire for success and recognition, with Joji reflecting on his own struggles and dreams. The interlude takes its name from the popular website WorldStarHipHop, but its meaning goes beyond a simple reference. It serves as a commentary on the idea of fame and how it can both elevate and consume an individual. Overall, the track showcases Joji’s introspective and vulnerable approach to songwriting, making it a standout in his discography.
7. CAN’T GET OVER YOU (feat. Clams Casino)
“CAN’T GET OVER YOU” is a hypnotic, genre-defying single by Joji, the Japanese-Australian musician, singer-songwriter, and former YouTube personality. The track features a collaboration with Clams Casino, the influential producer and beatmaker, and is characterized by its rich, layered production, Joji’s enigmatic vocals, and its catchy, infectious melody. The song’s lyrics address themes of heartbreak and longing, as Joji struggles to move on from a past relationship. The track’s blend of electronic and organic instrumentation creates a sound that is both unique and captivating, showcasing Joji’s talent as a songwriter and his ability to push boundaries and defy genre conventions. “CAN’T GET OVER YOU” is a mesmerizing and memorable song that stands out as one of Joji’s most compelling works.
6. Run
“Run” is a melancholic yet explosive track by Joji, released in 2020. It features a driving beat, soaring synths, and Joji’s emotive vocals, creating an ethereal and introspective atmosphere. The lyrics explore themes of anxiety and the need for escape, as Joji laments about feeling trapped and suffocated by his surroundings. As the song progresses, the intensity builds, with the instrumentation growing more chaotic and frenzied, before eventually reaching a cathartic conclusion. “Run” showcases Joji’s ability to create emotionally charged music that resonates with listeners and has helped solidify his place as a rising force in the alternative and experimental music scenes.
5. will he
“will he” is a melancholic, introspective single by Joji, the Japanese-Australian musician, singer-songwriter, and former YouTube personality. The track is characterized by its sparse, minimalist production, Joji’s emotive vocals, and its poignant lyrics. The song explores themes of heartbreak and regret, as Joji reflects on a past relationship and wonders if he will ever be able to move on. The track’s stripped-back instrumentation and haunting soundscapes create a sense of vulnerability and intimacy, underscoring the emotional weight of the lyrics. “will he” is a powerful and evocative song that showcases Joji’s talent as a songwriter and his ability to create music that is both introspective and deeply affecting.
4. Sanctuary
“Sanctuary” is a dreamy and upbeat track by Joji, featuring his signature emotional vocals over a synth-pop instrumental. The song deals with themes of self-love and escaping from the stresses of everyday life, with lyrics like “Oh, when you’re with me, baby, baby / No need for concern.” The music video, directed by Eoin Glaister, showcases Joji’s signature quirky and surrealist style, with bright colors and unusual imagery. “Sanctuary” was released in 2019 as the lead single for Joji’s debut studio album, “Ballads 1,” and has been praised for its unique sound and heartfelt lyrics.
3. Gimme Love
“Gimme Love” is a high-energy, electro-pop single by Joji, the Japanese-Australian musician, singer-songwriter, and former YouTube personality. The track is characterized by its upbeat, danceable production, Joji’s smooth, emotive vocals, and its catchy, anthemic chorus. The song’s lyrics address themes of self-doubt and the search for validation, as Joji struggles to find meaning and purpose in his life. The track’s infectious energy and upbeat soundscapes create a sense of optimism and hope, underscoring the resilience and determination of the human spirit. “Gimme Love” is a dynamic and captivating song that showcases Joji’s versatility as an artist and his ability to create music that is both uplifting and inspiring.
2. YEAH RIGHT
“YEAH RIGHT” is a brooding, introspective single by Joji, the Japanese-Australian musician, singer-songwriter, and former YouTube personality. The track is characterized by its moody, atmospheric production, Joji’s emotive vocals, and its hypnotic, repetitive melody. The song’s lyrics address themes of self-doubt and inner turmoil, as Joji grapples with his own sense of identity and purpose. The track’s haunting soundscapes and sparse instrumentation create a sense of detachment and isolation, underscoring the emotional weight of the lyrics. “YEAH RIGHT” is a haunting and evocative song that showcases Joji’s talent as a songwriter and his ability to create music that is both introspective and deeply affecting.
1. SLOW DANCING IN THE DARK
“SLOW DANCING IN THE DARK” is a melancholic yet beautiful ballad by Joji, released in 2018. The song is a haunting portrayal of the pain and heartache that comes with a failed relationship. Joji’s smooth and soulful vocals are perfectly complemented by the song’s atmospheric production, which incorporates elements of both R&B and electronic music. The music video, which features Joji as a vampire, adds an additional layer of darkness and mystery to the already emotional track. “SLOW DANCING IN THE DARK” quickly became a fan favorite and remains one of Joji’s most popular songs to date.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
