Spotify RADAR artist Justin Vasquez wants you to know his story through R&B music

Emerging onto the R&B scene is Justin Vasquez, a name you'll want to remember. This Spotify RADAR artist is making waves with his authentic sound and deeply personal storytelling through music.

For Justin, music wasn't just a hobby; it was woven into the fabric of his childhood. Growing up surrounded by musical influences – his mother and uncles were in a band – instruments were always around. He naturally gravitated towards the keyboard, finding an immediate connection that set him on his musical path.

While he experimented with guitar and drums, it was the keys that truly resonated. Singing followed organically, inspired by iconic Filipino R&B artists like Bruno Mars, Gabe Bondoc, Kyla, South Border, Jay R, and Michael Pangilinan. He describes the progression as seamless: "Once I picked up playing the keys, the singing kind of just followed. It was a natural process."

Justin's journey hasn't been without its challenges, navigating life between the Philippines and Australia. Yet, his unwavering authenticity has been his constant compass, guiding him through it all.

This authenticity isn't just a label for Justin; it's palpable. Beyond his undeniable musical talent, he readily shares his experiences with a refreshing candor. Perhaps this genuine nature is a key reason why he's been selected for this year's Spotify RADAR program.

Long before Spotify RADAR, a younger Justin took a leap of faith onto the stage of X Factor Australia in 2014. At just 15, he saw the competition as a crucial test: was music truly his calling?

The reality TV experience was a whirlwind. While appearing glamorous on the surface, the behind-the-scenes were intense, filled with countless interviews and grueling waiting periods. Despite the challenges, Justin acknowledges it as an "amazing experience" where he met great people, though he admits it's not something he'd repeat.

Undeterred, Justin continued to nurture his passion. A couple of years after his X Factor stint, he began sharing covers and original songs on platforms like YouTube and Spotify, driven by a simple desire to connect with listeners.

For Justin, music wasn't initially about financial gain, but about passion and recognition. "Being acknowledged by people for my work was all I really wanted," he explained.

In 2019, seeking to hone his songwriting skills, Justin entered Himig Handog, a renowned Filipino songwriting competition. This experience proved pivotal, deepening his musical understanding and equipping him with both the passion and technical foundation to refine his artistry.

The Philippines, it seems, became a crucial landscape for Justin's artistic growth. He feels a strong connection to the country's vibrant music scene, noting, "The opportunities are endless here and everyone has a chance to make it in the music industry. Filipinos love music." He contrasts this with his experiences in Australia, where he felt less appreciated for his art.

Justin describes the Philippines as the place where his "dreams came true," highlighting the profound impact of the local music scene on his journey.

What you see is what you get with Justin. His on-stage persona is a genuine reflection of who he is off-stage. He describes himself as "Makulit ako. Sobra (I’m really playful)," eager to showcase this fun-loving side more. He's now performing with a live band, a step closer to revealing his full personality to his audience.

Justin is poised to be a prominent figure in the R&B landscape. His focus is clear: creating original music and reviving the soulful sounds of the '90s and early 2000s R&B.

His aspirations are high – aiming for a hit song and recognition as a singer-songwriter in his own right, beyond just cover songs. With Spotify RADAR, he sees an opportunity to showcase his original work and hopes to land a song in the top charts.

His latest single, "What U Need," could very well be the track that propels him towards these goals.

Ultimately, for Justin, the heart of music lies in the journey itself. He cherishes the creative process, the freedom of musical expression, and the deep satisfaction of connecting with fans through his performances. It's about soaking in the "love, acknowledgment and support" that fuels his passion.