Joseph Tilley
Joseph Tilley started his musical journey simply by making beats on his grandma’s iPad. Through the guidance of a fellow producer, the Arkansas native began to write, record, and produce his own music; And in 2017, he debuted on Spotify with his popular single “Feelings”. Since then, the college senior has become one of newest young artists to strike streaming gold. Tilley’s songs “I Want U.” and “Love Me To” are just two of the many that have earned him over 2.8 million Spotify plays. Along with these successes, the artist also produces for fellow musicians Dillon Davis and Emilee Flood. Flood recently topped the Billboard Dance charts with Surf Mesa in “ily (I love you baby)”. His newest single, “Your Love”, was released in early May. We spoke to Tilley about his musical influences, songwriting journey, and more.
How did you get started making music?
Growing up, I loved making beats on GarageBand on my grandma's iPad. That is what inspired me to learn how to use software on a computer so that I could record real instruments and my (at the time awful) voice as well. I wanted to be a producer didn't know how to start or turn it into a career path. Then I met a guy named Alan Thomas. He took me under his wing and taught me the basics of how to produce and how to make my demos better. I wanted to do what he did, so Alan really inspired me to be better.
Which song of yours is your favorite, and what went into writing it?
My favorite song of mine that I released is probably “Be Somebody.” It was so refreshing to write a song that wasn’t all about love. I was working with a label in LA for a week and I had never really worked on my projects in a real studio before. So I was nervous and had a lot on my mind. The song came from a place of not feeling good enough by society’s standards. I thought: “How in the world am I ever going to be somebody when there is already so many ‘somebody’s’ in the world?” I think that song really helped me overcome a fear of people not liking what I make and what I post; It really encouraged me to be myself and be authentic which will always be enough.
What are some upcoming projects you’re looking forward to?
I am always stoked about working with my good friend Emilee on her projects so be looking out for new music from her. I am also excited about releasing the music that I have lined up for the rest of this year as well as a possible EP!
Which artists would you say have had the greatest impact on your work? Who would you consider a “dream collab”?
I would say Justin Bieber would be my dream collab for so many obvious reasons. I have been a big fan for a long, long time. I also think Bazzi, Charlie Puth, The Weekend, Leven Kali, Dua Lipa, and so many more inspire my sound. As an artist, it’s so important to pull inspiration from as many places as possible. I think the ability to draw inspiration and make a sound or style your own is one of the best assets an artist can have.
Favorite non-music activity?
My favorite non-music activities are probably graphic design, skateboarding, or watching YouTube.