It’s safe to say that music is in Josh Middleton’s blood. This talented teenager has hit SA’s radio airwaves with his new single “Monster” and has demanded attention from local listeners. It is rare to find success at 14, but this talented musician has shown he knows what it takes and this is just the beginning for this pop sensation.

1. Your latest track, Monster, has been charting on national radio stations. Did you expect this kind of instant success with your music?

I didn’t expect instant success in the South African music industry, my debut single You Know didn’t make it onto national radio stations where my second single Monster made it onto Radio Stations both here and abroad. I thought that success was imminent but over a long time period, but I proved my self wrong.

2. What inspires your music? Where do you get your lyrics and ideas from?

My music, lyrics, and ideas are inspired by events that I’ve experienced or seen, I then take these emotions and express them in song lyrics and music videos.

3. What styles of music has influenced your music the most. Musicians that you look up to?

Pop music has definitely influenced my music the most but I try to reinvent myself by changing genres regularly due to my influences from artists like Lady Gaga and Sam Smith.

4. You have been singing since the age of 5. Would you say that it is better to start music at such a young age and progressively develop?

It really depends, kids at that age play touches and make sand castles not because they have to but because they think it is fun that is where I found music and singing fun. So I don’t think you should worry about starting early just take it as it goes.

5. How do you balance your school work and your music? You must be pretty busy and not a lot of 14 year old have such a bright music career.

I am very busy but I go to school at a Cambridge Hub called Light Learning which allows me to continue with my music career while maintaining a good education.

6. How do you cope with the media attention, radio charting success and so forth?

Well, media gives artists like myself great opportunities and exposure, however I keep myself grounded and I keep reminding myself that this industry is tough!  So today you may have a number one hit and tomorrow it maybe forgotten so I keep my head down and work on new material. Stay humble!

7. What are your main goals in music?

My main goals of music would be to open for an international inspiration of mine, share my music with the world, and hopefully make myself a successful music career overseas.

8. What are your favourite songs to listen to?

My favorite songs to listen to would have to be Halsey (Now or Never), Kesha (Praying) and Lady Gaga (The Cure)

9. Who are your biggest supporters/people who have helped you get where you are today?

My parents, vocal coach and piano teacher have been very instrumental and supportive throughout my career.

10. Tips for young musicians out there?

I would say never give up no matter how hard it gets.