by brittany and everly ormiston
photo by chieska fortune-smith
“Your soul feels everything your mind may try to deny, but your heart greets honesty with joy and relief.” London-based singer/songwriter Joseph Lawrence is on the rise and excelling in the Jazz scene. He has performed at the historical and acclaimed Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London, and networked with other musicians with a similar vision to his own. After being a part of several bands, Joseph decided to plunge into the creation of his debut album and show the world what he is capable of. His single “BeGod” is exceptional and has received nothing but praise. Listeners can dive even deeper with Joseph’s new release “No Good For Me.” His debut album in its entirety will be out later this year where Joseph will take listeners on The Trials Of A Dream.
How do you feel knowing your song “BeGod” is out in the world?
Joseph: “It’s always a great feeling to have your work out there. I never really put a special feeling on the release of an individual track as they all hold a special place for me and are all considered. Although BeGod probably has an extra special feeling because the message of the song highlights my rise from a personal dark space I was in.”
What musical influences did you pull from when creating ‘BeGod?’
Joseph: “There is a lot. I would say Kanye West and his record, MBDTF was a huge inspiration for me sonically behind this track. The melodic keys parts and the hard hitting punchy drums. Vocally, I actually listened to a lot of rap music for this record and was inspired by it, the way it flows and builds tension melodically. Chris Cornell and Jeff Buckley vocally I drew some inspo from too, masters.”
“BeGod” is filled with raw emotion and intense vocals. Describe who/what inspired you to create the track.
Joseph: “‘BeGod’ was born out of a place of coming out of dark space solely by myself. Having to find an inner light, a non tangible thing and pull myself out of the hole. Having optimal faith in myself seemed the only option.”
All of your live performances are incredibly powerful. You have been able to provide creative direction for several of them. Were you able to do the same for “BeGod?” If so, what was it like being able to express yourself and your artistry in another way?
Joseph: “Yes, live performance is arguably the most important asset for an artist to express themselves. It’s the truest form of your art, as you can’t hide behind things and the truth will prevail for people to feel and see. I’m blessed to have a great team who listen to me and respect my vision.”
Describe your experience working with Fryars (Mark Ronson, Pharell) and Dave Okumu (Jessie Ware, Lianne La Havas).
Joseph: “Fryars is a true genius. There are too many things to say about this man. I guess you’ll see in time to come… Dave is almost a God like figure, anyone who’s met and spoke with him will know what I mean. Truly born to do what he does, much more work to be done together I hope…”
What are some details you can share about your upcoming debut album?
Joseph: “The title of the album is The Trials Of A Dream, a lot to unpick from that…”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given, and what is one you would give to aspiring musicians?
Joseph: “There is no one piece of advice, more so moments and advice together accumulated over time are the most powerful things. And with both of these things they always keep happening, so it changes or adds all the time.”
What are a few of your aspirations for the rest of 2023?
Joseph: “Sell out a headline show, release first part of the album. And be ready for the biggest year of my life, 2024.”