Baltimore-based rock and roll artist, Josh Christina, is an old soul proudly raised by Jim and Patti Christina with a strong belief in God, country and work ethic. They’ve turned out a polite, well mannered, humble and even a bit shy son (when not on stage) that loves old cars, his family, his friends, his fans and definitely music!
He inherited his musical chops from his biological father (a drummer), his mother (Baltimore-area singer Patti Christina), and his grandmother, who was a big band singer in the ’40’s and ’50’s.
Josh spent the past 16 years honing his sound – a combination of the country, classic rock, gospel and blues he was raised on. And while most artists find the pressures of today’s music scene to look and sound a certain way daunting, Christina continues to find success in both Baltimore, Nashville, Memphis and beyond by doing what he does best – being himself.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Josh about his latest project, challenges, technology and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)
I’m from Cockeysville, Maryland. It’s about 30 minutes north of Baltimore. I’d say the style of music I create is a combination of old school rock and roll, country and blues. When I was younger, I fell in love with guys like Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and Chuck Berry so I’d say I’ve taken what I learned from them and put my own twist on it.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
It was probably when I first heard Elvis at age 7. Something about his sound and style just captivated me. I use to come from school and put on his songs and try to sing and move like him. Sense then, I’ve always just loved performing and inspiring people and I think that’s what drives me to keep going. Knowing I’m entertaining and bringing joy to people.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
This one definitely has somewhat of a more modern sound to it. Not just in the music but the lyrics, the title, “Let’s Get Woke”. It has more of an Elton John sound to it. My goal is really trying to get this generation of young fans and listeners to be exposed to rock and roll piano and that style of music.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
The main challenge for me is cause I’m so different. It’s a blessing and a curse. It’s great cause you stand out but it’s challenging cause in music a lot, people like trends and it seems a lot of your big artist start to sound the same. When you’re different, it’s just harder to get in on the playlist and all. Technology does help though cause it allows you to put your music out there no matter what and allow people to hear it.
What was the last song you listened to?
Last song I listened to, I think, was an Elton Johnsong called “Idol”. It’s off his 1976 album “Blue Moves”. Came on while my phone was on shuffle. Really like it cause I feel like the story it’s telling is almost about Elvis. Go give it a listen!
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
Vinyl all the way! I have a good vinyl collection and I think it does sound better not to mention there’s just something about putting the needle on the record.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Spotify probably. Apple Music is a close second. I do like YouTube a lot, though. I think it’s good to not only be able to hear an artist but also see them perform or watch interviews of them or whatever. Allows fans to connect better.
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
My website for sure! www.joshchristinamusic.com. Spotify is always good as well!
Anything else before we sign off?
I’d say to any artist out there that is trying to make it and you feel that cause you’re not “main stream” you don’t have a shot at making it, don’t give up. Every year for me has gotten better sense I started chasing this at 16 and you just gotta have faith and can’t give up.
