In this interview feature, we chat with Josh Limage about the new single “Light Bulb” as well as influences, challenges in the digital era and more.
Full Q&A, links and a stream of the song can be found below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre or style?
I started really performing when I was younger in Staten Island’s Ps.22 chorus, from there I started voice lessons and really writing short songs here and there. I taught myself to play keyboard, and as my musical tastes started to develop, I started to write more challenging pieces. I have so many songs written in different genres it’s insane. I really wanted to push my music to the public because I always get such amazing feedback when I perform such as “Who wrote that?!” “Where can I hear the recorded version of that?” etc. For me, this EP is going to be something that might surprise some of my faithful listeners.
What led you into this journey with music? And further, what drives you to push it out to the public?
I started really performing when I was younger in Staten Island’s Ps.22 chorus, from there I started voice lessons and really writing short songs here and there. I taught myself to play keyboard, and as my musical tastes started to develop, I started to write more challenging pieces. I have so many songs written in different genres it’s insane. I really wanted to push my music to the public because I always get such amazing feedback when I perform such as “Who wrote that?!” “Where can I hear the recorded version of that?” etc. For me, this EP is going to be something that might surprise some of my faithful listeners.
Who or what influences your creativity? Have your tastes in music changed over time?
The new music I hear on the radio and also old classics have inspired my creativity. Even classical music that I perform in choir influence me, I might hear a note progression or a feeling of a piece, and I’ll say to myself “I want something with this feeling.” My music tastes are all over the place, I don’t have a single favorite genre. I’m always listening to new music and trying to adapt myself to the growing popular sounds. I’ll be listening to the radio and telling myself that I could write a song just like the one playing, or even better. Always push yourself as a songwriter.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?
This new project, for me, is just a culture clash of art, inspiration, and creativity. I told myself I don’t need some huge label or a bunch of money to perform my music. I will utilize my friends, family, and anyone I know personally that has a gift or voice. Luckily I know some pretty talented people who were able to help me all the way, I’m making everything possible with their support. Staten Island has a lot of very talented people, and we don’t need to be recognized only because of the great city we live near, we are our own entity with just as much to offer.
What was the last song you listened to?
Ivy by Frank Ocean, his new album is pretty fascinating lyrically, but that’s what he’s really known for.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I feel that Vinyl has a unique sound, as well as a nostalgic listening experience. I prefer MP3s solely because the marketplace is easily accessible and portable.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I have to say I am a fan of Apple Music, although I’m not too sure how I feel about all the exclusive albums being released. This forces listeners to jump from platform to platform just to listen to their favorite artists. I feel that a lot of songwriters are scammed from royalties with streaming music, and that might ruin the agreements to have certain artists featured on their platforms.
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what is the biggest challenge you face when trying to connect with or find new fans?
I feel that quality is one of the hardest ways to connect. I can write an awesome song, but if I can’t share it to its potential than it won’t have the same effect. I used to do covers on YouTube and everybody would comment saying I need better a quality camera, nowadays I want all my content to be as clear as possible. Not only does it make my music more serious, its better for my fans to enjoy professional quality.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more music?
The best place to connect with me would have to be my Instagram: Jblmusic24. Once I start releasing the rest of my singles, I will be posting more content. I plan to have more videos coming out and I’m working on a solo project strictly for SoundCloud called the Jupiter Journals to promote my official EP.
Anything else you’d like to add before signing off?
I’m just very blessed for all the support I’ve been given in creating my EP Urban Mindset. I have been working on this music for sometime now and it almost feels surreal to release it to the public. There have been many obstacles in my path, but I told myself that no matter the odds, I will do what I love. So please be on the look out for Urban Mindset coming soon!