Joshua Wilson

USC Thornton School of Music Scholarship Award, 2024

Joshua Gordon Wilson strides confidently into the future of pop music, wielding a soulful voice and a pen that breathes life into lyrics. A graduating music major at the University of Southern California, Joshua is swiftly carving a name for himself in the songwriting realm. His latest co-creations, ‘Smile,’ a tune that’s as catchy as it is uplifting, alongside ‘My Story,’ a poignant homage to his gospel roots, both showcase his lyrical prowess. The latter, particularly, strikes a chord with listeners, stirring deep emotions.
 
Originally from Houston, TX, Joshua's musical roots were nourished by the soulful sounds of his father, with whom he shared a stage at the televised 46th Annual GMA Dove Awards. The Grammy-nominated track ‘Worth Fighting For’ features Joshua's then-youthful voice, marking an early milestone in his journey.
 
His versatility shone through at the 2019 Motif Awards, where he paid homage to Earth Wind & Fire’s Verdine White with a rendition of 'September' that echoed through the historic House of Blues in Houston. A tribute to Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds at one of The University of Southern California’s Popular Music Forums, Joshua’s performance of 'Change the World,' further cemented his ability to span genres and generations.
 
In Los Angeles, Joshua's performances span from the Hollywood Bowl, harmonizing with Pentatonix, to the Staples Center, where his rendition of the National Anthem echoed before a Lakers game. His performance of 'Lift Every Voice' marked the swearing-in of Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager, showcasing not only his talent but his commitment to culturally significant moments.
 
Joshua’s aspirations go beyond performance; his vision is to impact the music industry with a fresh, authentic voice. His approach to songwriting is characterized by an innate understanding of melody and narrative, fostering songs that resonate with the heart and linger in the mind. As he looks forward to the next chapter, Joshua stands ready, with a horizon full of possibility.