We Speak Music

Saint Joshua’s ‘Self-(En)titled’ Is A Game-Changer in Pop and R&B

Published

3 months ago

November 19, 2024

Saint Joshua’s, Self-(En)titled, is a mixtape that demands attention. Packed with soulful melodies, introspective lyrics, and genre-spanning production, the nine-track project is an ambitious exploration of the artist’s journey through love, loss, and self-discovery. It’s a record that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant, showcasing Joshua’s remarkable growth as an artist.

The mixtape shines brightest in its ability to blend different sonic influences into a cohesive whole. Tracks like “Do U Ever Call” tug at heartstrings with haunting melodies and raw lyricism, while the upbeat “Blah Blah Blah” exudes confidence and swagger. Joshua’s knack for storytelling is evident throughout, with each song offering a new chapter in his emotional narrative.

What sets, Self-(En)titled, apart is its attention to detail. Collaborators like Cashybear and Pears Macintyre bring a level of polish to the production, while Joshua’s vocal delivery is nothing short of mesmerizing. “Nasty” and “Waterfalls” stand out for their intricate arrangements, while “Next Flight to Paris” leans into an atmospheric, almost cinematic soundscape that leaves a lasting impression.

As Joshua’s star continues to rise, the accolades have been pouring in. With glowing reviews from outlets like Rollacoaster and Man About Town, as well as 14.5 million streams across platforms, the mixtape’s success is undeniable. Its singles have received significant support on major platforms, further solidifying Joshua’s position as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

Joshua’s live performances bring a new dimension to his music. His ability to command the stage, whether at a sold-out London show or festivals like Latitude, underscores his versatility and charisma. Fans are eagerly anticipating his upcoming European tour dates, which promise to further cement his reputation as an artist capable of crossing borders and genres.

Self-(En)titled, is a milestone for Saint Joshua. It’s a mixtape that not only showcases his talent but also reveals his vulnerability, ambition, and vision. By seamlessly blending pop, R&B, and soul, Saint Joshua has created a record that resonates on multiple levels, making it clear that his journey is just beginning—and the world is ready to listen.

We Speak Hip-Hop

DJ Design drops “I Wanna Be Free” single ft. Gennessee

Published

2 hours ago

February 21, 2025

Rob Ducketts

Bay Area beatmaker/visual artist DJ Design returns with new single “I Wanna Be Free” (Below System Records). Washes of synth collide with a dense horn arrangement and snappin’ drums. West-Coast emcee Gennessee guests on the track spitting a lyrical dissertation on the woes of a police state, racial profiling and surveillance.

Listen to “I Wanna Be Free” (Ft. Gennessee): https://bsr.ffm.to/iwannabefree

This is the 3^rd leak from the forthcoming Survival Web Vaults LP to drop in vinyl and digital formats later this year. Additional album guests include Fashawn, Phat Kat, Elzhi, Guilty Simpson, LMNO and more.

Listen to “No Less Than The Trees And The Stars” (Ft. Fashawn): https://bsr.ffm.to/nltttats

Listen to “The Blues” (Ft. Phat Kat & Elzhi): https://bsr.ffm.to/theblues

While more of a behind-the-scenes player DJ Design’s (aka Keith Griego) work has had a sizable imprint on the history of modern hip-hop. As a DJ/Beatmaker and visual artist he has contributed production and art since the late 90’s for notables including The Beastie Boys, Madlib, A.G., Foreign Legion, Rasco, Peanut Butter Wolf and Phat Kat.

As a visual artist, his high point of work with the label was his design of the 12” vinyl cover for Lootpack member Madlib’s side project Quasimoto. The cover for “Microphone Mathematics” featured Design/Griego’s visual representation of Lord Quas as a sort of alien aardvark, which was adopted by the artist and has since become one of the most iconic and enduring

characters in the game today.

More Info: https://www.belowsystem.com/

https://www.instagram.com/djdesign