Joji

Biography

George Kusunoki Miller, known professionally as Joji, is a Japanese singer, songwriter, rapper, and record producer. Born in Osaka, Japan, to an Australian father and a Japanese mother, he later moved to the United States at the age of 18 to attend college in New York.

From Internet Personality to Musician

Before his music career, Miller gained significant recognition as a YouTube personality under the monikers Filthy Frank and Pink Guy. His channels featured sketch comedy, rants, and extreme challenges, which garnered a large online following. Under the Pink Guy persona, he released comedic rap albums, including "Pink Season," which charted on the Billboard 200. In 2017, Miller announced his retirement from his YouTube career to focus on his serious music endeavors as Joji, citing health concerns.

Musical Style and Breakthrough

Joji's music is characterized as a blend of R&B, lo-fi, and trip-hop with melancholic themes and soulful vocals. He signed with the music label 88rising, which supports artists of Asian descent. His debut EP, "In Tongues," was released in 2017, peaking at number 58 on the Billboard 200. His breakthrough came with the 2018 single "Slow Dancing in the Dark" from his debut studio album, "Ballads 1." The album reached number three on the Billboard 200 and was the first by an Asian-born artist to top the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.

Studio Albums

Ballads 1 (2018)

His debut studio album, "Ballads 1," featured the critically acclaimed single "Slow Dancing in the Dark" and solidified his position as a prominent artist. The album received positive reviews and significant commercial success.

Nectar (2020)

"Nectar," his second album, was released in 2020 and also peaked at number three on the Billboard 200. It included popular singles such as "Sanctuary" and "Run." The album featured collaborations with artists like Diplo, Lil Yachty, and Benee.

Smithereens (2022)

Joji's third album, "Smithereens," was released in 2022. It was preceded by the single "Glimpse of Us," which became his highest-charting song on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number eight. The album also included the single "Die for You."

Artistry and Impact

Joji's transition from a comedic internet figure to a serious musical artist has been noted as a significant and successful rebranding. His music often explores themes of heartbreak, love, and identity, resonating with a global audience. He has been praised for his genre-blending sound and introspective lyricism.