UK Spotlight: Josh Osho

(UK Spotlight is an ongoing column designed to introduce GRAMMY.com readers to artists making waves on the other side of the Atlantic. You'll learn about the artists, their music, where they came from, and where they are going.)

Josh Osho made himself known to the British soul-loving masses in a big way last year. He went on seven nationwide tours, one in support of songstress Emile Sandé. He also released two EPs in the form of The John Doe EP and The Manifesto EP, and he performed on the highly viewed British music television show "Later … With Jools Holland."

Osho's journey started in 2011, when he was spotted and signed by Island Records' Co-President Darcus Beese. That same year, Wu-Tang Clan's Ghostface Killah was featured on his first single, "Redemption Days," which was followed by 2012's "Giants," featuring rapper, Childish Gambino. The two offerings introduced Osho to a global audience longing to hear more.

Citing artists such as Simon & Garfunkel, Lauryn Hill, Mos Def, and KRS-One as some of his musical influences, Osho has picked up some of the best tricks of the trade from the crème de la crème of lyricists, and one only has to listen to his promising debut album, L.i.f.e., to hear how much of a skilled songwriter he is.

Released in June 2012, L.i.f.e. features 14 tracks co-written by Osho, including "Redemption Days," "Giants," and the soulful ballad "Imperfections." The majority of tracks on the LP are acoustic-driven, fitting his gravelly vocal tone perfectly. Currently working on his next project, the 21-year-old singer will no doubt continue to offer some of the finest soul that the UK has to offer.

(At left, watch Josh Osho perform an acoustic rendition of "Imperfections.")

(From grime and UK rap to bassline and house, and even a bit of pop,, Joseph 'JP' Patterson has played a vital part in promoting the UK's underground music scene over the years, with his no fuss, straight-to-the point writing style. He is a UK Correspondent for MTV IGGY, a columnist for MTV RapFix, and a contributor to Vogue, The Village Voice, Billboard and NME. Follow him on Twitter @Jpizzledizzle.)