London-born/Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter, and former dancer at the New York City Ballet Joshua Thew first garnered attention in 2019 with his debut single, ‘Think You’re Getting Through,’ which amassed over 450,000 streams on Spotify alone. Now he returns with his captivating, melancholic and soulful latest offering, ‘Where Do Feelings Go?,’ accompanied by a music video directed by Sean Suozzi
What or who inspired you to begin a career in music?
I trained as a singer when I was young and it was always my first love. I don’t think I was comfortable enough in my own skin to see music as a realistic career path. Many many years later a friend asked me to sing at his wedding. After I finished I had a full teary meltdown and lightbulb moment ha. I knew from that moment on I had to pursue it
What differs you and your sound from other artists in the music industry?
I’d say what differs me from others in my sound is my attention to lyrics. Also, I think my sound is unexpected after you talk to me
Your new single, ‘Where Do Feelings Go?’ is out now. Can you please describe the creative process and inspiration behind the release?
‘Where Do Feelings Go?’ started from a live drum groove that I couldn’t stop going back to. Cale my friend/producer played the first progression with a really melancholy synth and immediately stuck a reaction in me. I’d recently left a painful breakup and was definitely in my feelings and feeling rather disenchanted. The song wrote fast and was pretty thrilling to write.
In your own opinion, what is the most meaningful song you wrote? What makes you say that one?
I think to date it would be ‘Painted Blue’. It’s the first time I’ve tried writing something outside of a romantic relationship context.
My grandma had passed away and I had a very extended trip in UK. That idea of a person’s roots and family bonds and attachment to a homeland really pulled on me. I was also really grieving my grandma’s passing. Feels like a love letter to England and her.
Throughout your musical career, have you experienced any ‘wow’ moments?
The first thing that comes to mind… I was recording a song called ‘Quiet Words’ in the studio. Cale, my producer, was really firm about stopping me from caring about how nice it sounded and more about being honest in what I was saying. I did this one take and it felt raw and felt my ego and vanity left. Felt a little choked up afterward and it felt special.
What personal advice would you give to someone wanting to pursue this career?
I’d say enjoy the moments of creativity and remind yourself why you’re doing this. The selling part and the business can be overwhelming and stressful.
Take your time and remember that no one else can do what you do.
What does the foreseeable future hold for you as an artist?
I’d like to get less green on stage. Really want to work on the live craft. Excited to keep writing too.
Anything else you would like to add?
I’m proud of this project. It was cathartic and a vulnerable one to make.
‘Where Do Feelings Go?’ is available now via all major platforms.
Connect with Joshua Thew
Credits: All photography by Angela Suarez
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