Rising R&B singer-songwriter-pianist Josh Xantus's broad worldview of music was the building block to forming a career that has no bounds. Growing up in Brooklyn and Queens (New York City), classical music was ingrained in him from being raised by a single mother who played the violin, and made sure Josh and his siblings played a musical instrument. The piano was the instrument of choice at age six with Beethoven, Bach, and Mozart in his repertoire, but he soon fell in love with the soul of R&B at age ten thanks to Brian McKnight’s “Anytime.” He attended the notable Julliard School and performing arts institution Five Towns College, and now the 26-year-old is on his next project, The Antidote, which follows up 2012’s Everybody Hates Josh X, (a title spawned by shade thrown at the musician over where he was placed on a Singersroom “top” list.)
Josh isn’t slowing down; with multiple projects lined up, the musician took time out for a quick Q&A with Singersroom to dish on musicality, being backed by the greats, addictions to things other than music, exclusive scoop on future projects, and more.
1.) Do you think being a classically trained pianist boosts a musician’s musicality?
Being a classical trained pianist definitely boosts my knowledge and skills as a musician. I am truly blessed to have this as a background. I hear music differently than most people especially in terms of harmonies and rhythms.
2.) You got the thumbs up from many music vets, including Stevie Wonder. How has his support motivated you?
Getting support from many music vets gives me a boost in my confidence and in my art. It lets me know that I'm on the path to greatness. Music is how I express myself and how I communicate. Every song I write, every track I compose is how I feel music. People should feel encouraged and motivated when they hear music. When the legendary Stevie Wonder told me that my music does exactly that and my song " Mommy I Love You " is a song for the world and started telling me about his mother and her passing and got so deep with his words I knew for sure that I'm doing something great. It motivated me to step it up and as a mandate from Stevie Wonder he told me continue doing just that and I will.
3.) Your latest mixtape, The Antidote, is relatable in that you effectively show both the pain and beauty in relationships. Where does your inspiration for songwriting concepts come from?
My concepts come from real life situations. I can honestly say 80 percent of the songs I write are based off personal experiences. I also pull stories from my family and friends. I try my best to write songs that way.
4.) Is it easier to write a song when you’re in a positive mood or bad mood?
I write better songs when I'm in a bad mood. Growing up in a household with a lot of brothers and sisters we would fight a lot. For me, music was always my escape when big fights went down. I would end up going to my piano and writing about it. That's been my writing process for a long time.
5.) When you’re not in the music lab, what does Josh Xantus like to do?
I literally live in the studio. I believe great artists are constantly creating ideas in the studio. Whenever I'm not in the studio, I check in on the latest cars and sneakers. I need rehab because I'm addicted to those worlds.
6.) You’re prepping for an upcoming tour and EP. What’s the word on these projects?
I'm really excited for touring and promoting my new single that drops this Spring and my EP coming this Summer. Singersroom has always supported me since Day 1 so I want to give you the title of my new single first. The single is called Smokin & Drinkin.
With a unique blend of soulful R&B and hip-hop, singer/songwriter Josh Xantus is ready to make his mark in the music industry. His love for Stevie Wonder has been a major influence on his sound, as well as his personal story that includes overcoming addiction and heartache. Now he’s gearing up to release his new single, which promises to be an emotional addition to his growing catalog of songs. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this artist tick and why you should keep your eye on him!
Josh Xantus may not be a household name yet, but it won’t stay that way for long. With undeniable vocal chops honed through years of performing live shows, this musician is poised to become one of the greats. He draws inspiration from legends like Stevie Wonder, whose trademark Motown style can be heard in many of Josh’s tracks. But even more so than musical influences, Josh channels real life experiences into his work – both painful and triumphant moments that shape who he is today.
From fighting addictions to celebrating victories big and small, Josh Xantus puts it all out there with every song he sings or writes. Not only does he have an impressive solo career already underway; he has also collaborated with some big names in the business such as Jeremih and Trey Songz . And now fans are eagerly awaiting the arrival of his latest single which will surely prove once again why Josh Xantus deserves to be watched closely by anyone looking for fresh talent in R&B/Soul and Hip-Hop music.
Background Of Josh Xantus
Josh Xantus is an up-and-coming R&B/pop singer from Brooklyn, New York. Born and raised in the city that never sleeps, he has been honing his craft since a young age. He found solace in music when life got tough, which allowed him to express himself without judgement or criticism. With influences ranging from Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder to Lil Wayne and Drake, Josh’s sound blends classic R&B with hip hop elements for something entirely new.
Over the years, Josh has struggled with addictions like drugs and alcohol as well as depression. However, he was able to use music as an outlet for his pain while also developing a deep appreciation for its power of healing. He credits much of his success today to this newfound understanding of music’s transformative abilities. Through creating his own songs, Josh believes he can help others find comfort even during their darkest moments – just as it did for him once upon a time.
Nowadays, Josh is looking towards the future and preparing to release his newest single soon. Fans will get insight into how far he’s come on this journey: from hardships to triumphs; darkness to light; confusion to clarity. It appears that no matter what struggles lie ahead, Josh is determined more than ever before to embrace them head on – all through the melodic words we know so well.
Overview Of Upcoming Single
Josh Xantus is ready to share his latest single with the world. Titled “Don’t Let Go,” this track is an ode to resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. It features a soul-stirring melody that will leave listeners feeling uplifted no matter what struggles they may be facing. Josh draws inspiration from Stevie Wonder for this song, which speaks volumes about his admiration for the legendary artist’s music.
In addition to its melodic beauty, the lyrics of “Don’t Let Go” are packed with meaning. They explore themes like addiction, depression, and even love – all while encouraging listeners to stay strong despite life’s challenges. By using simple yet powerful words, Josh hopes to communicate hope and strength through his music – something he wishes he had when struggling with addictions years ago.
The release of “Don’t Let Go” marks a major milestone in Josh Xantus’ journey as an artist. With this single, he seeks to inspire those who have faced their own battles by showing them that it’s possible to fight back and come out on top. As we eagerly await the release of this captivating new tune, one thing is certain: Josh Xantus has only just begun making waves in the music industry – and there’s much more greatness ahead!
Conclusion
Josh Xantus is an artist on the rise. His latest single is sure to draw in new listeners and solidify his place as a unique and talented musician. With influences from Stevie Wonder, Josh fuses soulful R&B with hip-hop elements to create a sound that’s all his own.
At its core, Josh Xantus’ music speaks of love – both for others and himself – and this comes through strongly in his upcoming single. He also draws attention to issues such as addiction, providing insight into how he has been able to overcome them with the help of those around him. In doing so, he hopes to provide strength and solace for anyone else going through similar struggles.
Ultimately, it’s clear that Josh Xantus has something special to offer fans; not just musically but emotionally too. His story of overcoming adversity while staying true to himself is inspiring, and we look forward to following him on this journey!
