‘Connection‘ is the new single from Bedfordshire rapper and vocalist Junior (real name James Watkinson), ahead of his forthcoming EP. The bouncy sample laden track utilises infectious syncopated hand-clap rhythms and colourful Latin harmonies, with Junior’s fierce vocal weaving some lyrical gold in amongst. Parts pop, RnB, and Thundercat style hip hop think Justin Timberlake on a hot summer jaunt with Mac Miller RIP.
Junior is one seriously skilful 25-year-old, whose mastery of rap, vocals, and production puts him on an immediate fast-track to the heights of ‘next big thing’ out of the UK. Hailing from Bedford, this sleepy town is where Junior got to learn his craft whilst studying closely from influences within 90s RnB, SBTV, West Coast CDs & Jay Z.
After writing and producing ‘Connection’ in Bedford, Junior was invited to finish it at Dean Street Studios, Soho. Here, he has created a perfect blend between Hip-hop and RnB which is bursting with intoxicating bass driven grooves and soulful content and delivery in equal measure. A slight departure and progression from his recent singles ‘Long Way Home’ and ‘I Feel It Too’ which garnered acclaim from the likes of GRM DAILY and BBC 6 Music’s Tom Ravenscroft.
“The aim was to mix all of my previous bodies of work together. I feel like I am defiantly in new territory creatively and have never been more excited to release music than right now,” says Junior.
Growing up recording in a summer cabin, Junior’s sound morphs and evolves to suit his surroundings and circumstance. Making music is undeniably central to his coming of age. He cites going on stage with Pharrell as an adolescent fan as a defining moment in his career.
Connection was released on 20 January.
Follow Junior at:
