From: Toronto
Genre: R&B, Alternative, Indie
For fans of: Frank Ocean, Daniel Caesar, Lucky Daye
Joël Lobban (FKA Joël) grew up as the son of a Pastor in a religious household. Basketball was his first window into another world, followed shortly after by music—listening to the catalogues of Lil Wayne, gospel records and Nirvana equally. Today, the Toronto artist is praised for his forward-thinking R&B and commanding vocal range.
Joël established himself as an artist to watch with the release of his debut album GRUNGE GOSPEL and was named one of the “most exciting and unpredictable new prospects” by Pigeons & Planes. The album pulled together Joël’s love for gospel music with 90’s era rock influences for a sound unlike anything else that came before.
After a nearly 3 year hiatus, Joël is back to share a new chapter of his music. “Lots of life happened since I last shared music with y’all,” he reflects. “I’ve been tryna figure out the words to say that’ll explain my absence from from music, but I figure best to let it speak for itself. I’m excited to share this new chapter with you, I’ve missed y’all heavy!” says Joël of the new music. “I feel I’m deep in my purpose. I’m deep in my calling.”
Joël’s comeback single “Thinking About You” invites us into his deeply personal realm of heartache and regret. The song is also his first release with Universal Music Canada and Def Jam Records, marking a new chapter in his artistic journey. “Thinking About You” was co-produced by Joël’s close collaborator, Colin Munroe (Drake, Kendrick Lamar) and recorded between Toronto and Los Angeles. The song is accompanied by an official video directed by Dragan Andic (The Weeknd, NAV) that explores the depths of heartbreak and human connection.
"Thinking About You" is just the start of what Joël has in store of us in 2023. Stay tuned for Joël’s highly anticipated EP, scheduled for release later this year.