Joshua Futura, a 20-year-old alt-hip-hop artist from East Johannesburg, is carving out a lane that feels both intimate and cinematic. Coming from a working-class immigrant background, his music is rooted in that lived reality—blending sharp lyricism, subtle African textures, and a strong sense of world-building that captures the emotional landscape of contemporary African youth.
His sophomore project, BEFORE THINGS FELL APART, is a concept EP and prequel to a larger story he’s building called THE LND OF THE CRRPT. The project reflects on the quiet, fragile moments that existed before life shifted. With production anchored in Trap/Alt Hip-Hop and touches of Afro-gothic realism, the EP explores themes of interpersonal unease, self-reflection, and the weight of looming change.
The journey begins with “DAKAR DREAMS,” a heartfelt opener that immediately stands out—especially as a first introduction to Joshua’s sound. It’s followed by “OUTSIDE,” which deepens the mood, and “DECEMBER 2022,” a track that feels like the project’s breakout moment. “ROUTE 24” and “MODERN DAY NEGUS” close the project with conviction, tying the narrative arc together.
Since the release of his debut EP Glasshouse Theory on April 11th, Joshua has been steadily building momentum. He’s already been featured on Pigeons & Planes, appeared in the PUMA x Maglera Doe Boy Mostros campaign, and earned a spot on Apple Music’s The New Mzansi playlist.
BEFORE THINGS FELL APART is not just another release—it’s a glimpse into a bigger universe Joshua is creating, and a bold step in shaping the sound of alt hip-hop from South Africa.
Stream the EP and see where Joshua’s vision takes you.
The post Joshua Futura: BEFORE THINGS FELL APART appeared first on HYPE Magazine.
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