Jon StojanFrom a young age, hip-hop was more than just a genre for Joshua Murray, aka Josh da Villian – it was a lifeline. Growing up glued to BET network music, particularly when rap freestyles took center stage, he found himself mesmerized by the raw storytelling and vibrant personalities that defined the era. Artists of that time weren’t just entertainers; they were narrators of their lives, weaving intricate tales of their realities, struggles, and triumphs into their music. This deeply resonated with Josh, fueling his passion and shaping his path in the music industry.
“My love for hip-hop started with me freestyling to the TV,” he recalls. “Ever since the time I could write, I tried to pen down my own lyrics, capturing that same feeling hip-hop gave me.”
What sets this artist apart is his eclectic taste in music. He is inspired by various genres and musicians, from the gritty bars of Tupac to the authentic rock of Aerosmith. He draws from a wide range of artists, including Queen, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Mystikal, Ludacris, T.I., and OutKast, infusing his music with a diverse array of sounds and stories. For him, it is not about the genre but the message he conveys through music. The authenticity of an artist’s life experiences and their ability to remain true to themselves is what matters most.
“Sadly, today’s music is filled with stories of wealth and extravagance,” he notes. “I miss the days when music reflected the everyday person’s life. And that is what I am bringing back – real stories that listeners can connect to.”
Josh’s music is proof of this philosophy. His tracks range from party anthems to introspective pieces, reflecting his multifaceted life. Whether he’s rapping about the violence and gang activity in Pasadena and Altadena neighborhoods or creating chill vibes for relaxation, his songs are grounded in his experiences. He talks about his life in different places, like Atlanta and desert regions, to give his listeners a genuine feel of his journey.
His upcoming singles reflect this diversity. “I make music for everyday listening, party songs, and self-reflective pieces,” he explains. His music gives his current audience chills, goosebumps even, while also connecting with his story.
Excitingly, Josh has four singles set to drop next month. His enthusiasm is palpable as he prepares for his first major show on July 19th. “I’ve been creating music for a while now but never performed live for an audience. I feel like it’s time now, and I’m pretty hyped about it,” he says with a mix of exhilaration and determination.
This music artist’s vision is clear: “I want to make music that is fun and relatable, something people can listen to all the time. I just want to be known as a cool artist with real, laid-back vibes.”
Among his released tracks, songs like Steady Running Things, Shake Some, For My City, and Melted Sundays hold special significance. Each track showcases a different facet of his artistry, from lyrical dexterity to reflective storytelling and party themes. Steady Running Things dives deep into hip-hop’s lyrical roots, while For My City and its sequel celebrate his connection to his hometown and the people in it.
Looking forward, Josh is committed to preserving the authenticity of the music that first inspired him. With his upcoming releases and live performances, he is poised to make a significant impact, reminding the world that the true essence of music lies in genuine storytelling and heartfelt connection.
In an era where authenticity is often overshadowed by commercial success, this artist stands out by staying true to his roots and his love for genuine storytelling. His journey is just beginning, and with his new singles and upcoming performances, he’s ready to share his story with the world.