An Asian singer who performed at Harrow's Under One Sky festival aims to top the charts with his blend of R'n'B and soul music. Newcomer Jo Shi talks to CHRIS KING about his hopes

OF INDIAN heritage, 24-year-old Hiten Joshi, whose stage name is Jo Shi, says his music blends 'neo-soul and funk vibes with a commercial flavour' and could become a niche within the Asian music industry.

"People are becoming far more receptive to Asian artists coming out as commercial artists and producing good music," he said. "I want to bring a different flavour to Harrow as an Asian artist."

The singer, of Hillview Avenue in Harrow, cites his main musical influence as American R'n'B artist Musiq Soulchild, though he takes inspiration from artists such as Ne-Yo and singer Jill Scott.

The Harrow Council employee may be familiar to some, following his performance at the borough's largest community festival in June.

"Under One Sky was my first performance in the local community, and I definitely want to be at next year's festival," he said.

"I recently took part in a Battle of the Bands competition, where I received great feedback on my music, and I would definitely do gigs in Harrow."

Jo added: "I'm looking to promote myself as an artist locally, so more people know about me and know my music."

The Harrow-born artist went to Claremont High School, Kenton, followed by St Dominic's Sixth Form College in Mount Park Avenue, Harrow on the Hill.

Following his taste of fame performing at the recent festival and on Hayes FM radio station, he says he is determined to succeed.

Asked where he would like to be in five years' time, Jo said: "I would like to be signed, making great music and still loving music - still being passionate about what I'm doing."

The fledgling musician started pursuing music just a year ago, but has already written his own material in collaboration with north London producer, Mystik Karma.

Jo is planning to release two tracks, This Girl and Get On The Floor, on the internet in the near future - so watch this space.

* For information on upcoming gigs, go to www.youtube.com/joshiofficial , www.jo-shi.com   or www.twitter.com/joshiofficial .