10 Questions: Joshua Luke Smith
Photo by Toby Mitchell
Yes, yes folks! We’re back again with another round of 10 Questions. Following on from our premiere of his track Meaningless and to celebrate the release of Beats & Pieces Vol.2, we’re pushing Joshua Luke Smith in to the limelight to give us the lowdown.
1. Contestant: what’s your name, chosen craft and where are you based?
The name is Joshua Luke Smith, I’m a lyricist / poet based in Bath, UK.
2. How would you describe your sound?
Close your eyes and imagine a jam session is happening. Questlove is on the drums holding down the pocket. Kate Tempest is on the mic shelling bar (as prophetic they are vulnerable) and Justin Vernon is on the keys, riffing some melodic hooks through out. Something like that!
3. Who or what do you consider to be the biggest influence on your music?
Chaos is what inspires me to write. From the personal to the social. I see my work in writing as a way of untangling the chaos we wrap ourselves in. Musically, Oddisee has inspired me over the last decade. His bars, production and minimal approach constantly raises the bar.
4. What’s the proudest moment to date for you as an artist?
Haha, collaborating with Oddisee, for the reason above. That was a real special moment. As well as that it’s the messages from my listeners saying the music helps, the words heal and it matters that I write.
5. Do you have any advice for our readers who maybe trying to play the mad game of music?
It sounds cliche but keep at it. Making music is much like building muscle. It’s a process that rips you apart, causes fatigue, pumps you up and then you start all over again. You won’t see growth in the short run, it’s a marathon and it takes time. Develop the craft, become an artisan, like a woodworker in their shed. You’re not doing this for Spotify streams, you’re making something beautiful and meaningful for a generation we haven’t met yet.
6. Name 3 people you would love to work with and why?
Little Simz - She’s the best MC in the game right now and a pioneer who is doing more for music than people currently appreciate.
Foy Vance - He’s one of my favourite song writers, I think we could create something pretty emotional.
Black Thought - He’s the greatest. If I could collaborate with him, I’d die a happy man.
7. What have you got planned for the not so distant future?
Despite this year not looking at all what any of us expected, it’s going to be a great year for art. Chaos is the perfect time to speak and sing and dance and paint because it restores meaning and beauty. I’m going to release a TON of new music. Mixtapes, my Debut album more collabs.
8. What’s the album you’ve played more than any other?
Oddisee - The Good Fight
9. What’s the best concert you’ve been to and where was it?
Jon Bellion - Camden Roundhouse. His infusion of hip hop, soul and pop is mind blowing, the musicality is unreal.
10. Name three things you can’t live without?
My wife. A book to read. A cigar
For more info, check out Joshua’s website and listen to Beats & Pieces Vol 2 in full here