Up-and-coming teen rapper from Tri-Cities releases new single with FUTURISTIC

If you’re not familiar with it, you might be surprised to know about the thriving hip-hop culture in Tri-Cities. But hip-hop has been here for decades, and some of the key players have long-standing ties to the scene. 

Many DJs, producers, dancers, and artists in Tri-Cities have been here for years, or have had family members active in the scene for generations. It’s part of the culture — who you surround yourself with is a massive factor in the community’s support. Local showgoers and hip-hop heads love seeing a legacy artist, especially someone with hometown roots. 

One of the youngest rappers in the scene right now is a prime example of hip-hop legacy, and it’s helping him reach massive feats — all before the age of 16. 

JOSIAHDAVIS. is the 15-year-old son of Chris Davis, who was a well-known member of the Tri-Cities hip-hop scene in the 2000s and early 2010s. Even though he’s still a student at Southridge High, JOSIAHDAVIS. is also performing at iconic Seattle venues and collaborating with larger artists. 

While he’s inspired by many different artists, JOSIAHDAVIS.’ sound is kind of like a combination of The Kid LAROI, Juice WRLD, and the softer side of XXXTENTACION. His songs often feature long verses, showing off the teenager’s impressive breath control and ability to write vulnerable lyrics. But don’t think you won’t also hear him singing a soft melody or catchy hook every so often, too. 

And while many of his classmates were probably going on vacation or relaxing by the pool, Josiah’s summer looked a little bit different. He’s been stacking up several impressive achievements, growing his fanbase with some of his biggest shows so far, and recording new songs with other noteworthy artists. 

The teenager kicked off this summer as the youngest performer at the Tri Town Get Down music festival in Richland. The month of June ended with a show with Jang the Goon, a popular Spokane-based artist. 

In August, JOSIAHDAVIS. was an opening act for two shows on Hobo Johnson and the Lovemakers’ tour. The Showbox in Seattle and the Roseland Theater in Portland were new territory (both geographically and in size) for the young rapper, and he gained new fans at both concerts. 

Wrapping up an impressive summer, JOSIAHDAVIS. dropped his biggest collaboration yet. While he’s had several noteworthy collabs already, including Karma Knows and Cotto, the teen has reached new heights with his latest single featuring FUTURISTIC, released September 13.

Rapper and producer FUTURISTIC had one of the most highly-attended performances at the Get Down festival this year. He has notable features of his own, including collaborations with Jelly Roll, A Great Big World, and NF. With over 686,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, popular sounds on TikTok and other platforms, and a steady fanbase, FUTURISTIC’s status could prove to be a massive pull for young Josiah. 

The song, “STUCK WIT U.,” has a lighter, bouncier beat than some of his previous songs, and a groovy bassline, making it a perfect release for the summer-to-autumn transition. The chorus is reminiscent of The Kid LAROI, though a bit more upbeat. JOSIAHDAVIS.’ and FUTURISTIC’s verses compliment each other nicely, with clearly different styles finding a middle ground over the beat. 

It’s the kind of song you should be listening to with the windows down and the volume up, enjoying a light breeze at sunset before the cold winter weather arrives. 

Beyond the song’s sound, when you compare it to JOSIAHDAVIS.’ discography — even his album from earlier this year — this single demonstrates the young artist’s growth. It’s a bit more sophisticated than some of his other singles, with lyrics portraying more complex feelings. Especially when juxtaposed with the older perspective of FUTURISTIC, Josiah’s lyrics are a clear snapshot into the feelings experienced in young love. 

If you’ve yet to see the teenage rapper, you’ll have a shot October 25 at The Chameleon in Spokane with Sam Lachow. 

Karlee Van De Venter is a full-time reporter at the Tri-City Herald who contributes Arts and Entertainment coverage for Tumbleweird. Through a co-publication agreement, this content may also appear in the Herald. For more local music coverage, follow @KarleeVNews on Instagram.