History
George Kusunoki Miller, known professionally as Joji, is a Japanese-Australian singer, songwriter, and producer who has become a leading figure in alternative R&B and lo-fi music. His work is characterized by its melancholic atmosphere, minimalist production, and vulnerable lyrical themes, blending elements of electronic music, folk, and trap.
Early Career and Internet Origins
Before his transition into mainstream music, Miller established himself as a prominent Internet personality. Under the aliases Filthy Frank and Pink Guy, he created surrealist comedy content that gained a massive global following on YouTube. During this period, he released comedy-focused hip-hop projects, including the albums Pink Guy and Pink Season. These releases, while satirical in nature, showcased his underlying talent for production and melody.
In late 2017, Miller made the decision to retire from comedy and his YouTube personas to focus on a serious musical career under the name Joji. This shift allowed him to explore a more mature, experimental sound that resonated with a wide audience looking for emotional depth in the digital age.
Rise to Prominence with 88rising
Joji signed with 88rising, a media company and label focused on promoting Asian and Asian-American talent. His debut EP, In Tongues, was released in late 2017 and served as an introduction to his lo-fi, moody aesthetic. However, it was his debut studio album, Ballads 1 (2018), that propelled him to international stardom. The album featured the multi-platinum hit "Slow Dancing in the Dark" and made history by becoming the first album by an Asian-born artist to top the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
Nectar and Commercial Breakthrough
Following the success of his debut, Joji released his second studio album, Nectar, in 2020. The project demonstrated a more polished production style and a broader sonic range, incorporating elements of pop and soul. It debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 and included successful singles such as "Sanctuary," "Run," and "Gimme Love." The album solidified his reputation as a versatile artist capable of balancing indie sensibilities with mainstream appeal.
Smithereens and "Glimpse of Us"
In 2022, Joji achieved his highest chart position to date with the single "Glimpse of Us." A stripped-back piano ballad, the song became a viral sensation and reached the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100. This success preceded his third studio album, Smithereens (2022), which continued his exploration of heartbreak and introspection. The album reached the top five in several countries, including the United States and Australia.