With halcyon summer days now becoming a thing of the past for another year – not withstanding the one-week September heatwave we’re currently experiencing – the reality of living beyond one’s means might be hitting. And that’s exactly what Saint Joshua is documenting in latest single “Blah, Blah, Blah”. “I was baffled by how we can afford luxury one minute and then complain about being broke the next,” he tells Man About Town. “Why are we so broke with expensive tastes? Questions that need answers. I wanted to address that.”

The song is the first release from the soul-R&B artist in 2023 but the latest in an arsenal of singles that have seen him become an uncontainable force destined for the industry’s loftiest heights. With 13m streams now in tow, the numbers are evidence enough, however, he’s also a name on critics’ lips, being named one of Complex’s Best UK R&B and Soul Acts earlier in the year and nominated for Best Independent EP/Mixtape at this year’s AIM Awards. With a new project on the way and a UK Tour looming before September’s out, further accolades would appear to be almost certainly incoming.

Saint chats to us on all things “Blah, Blah, Blah”, running on instincts as a lyricist, and whether he’s a saver or spender...

Hey! How are you? Congratulations on a busy year! When did creating “Blah, Blah, Blah” come into the picture?
Thank you! I wrote the song last summer with my good friend, Pearse. I found myself constantly singing the chorus and realised it was a little ear worm. It was the first song written for the new project so it felt right for it to be the first single out.

You’ve had a busy run of live dates this year! Is there anything unorthodox you do to prevent nerves before a live show?
I pray to the old gods and new and a beacon of light appears and Saint Joshua emerges before I hit the stage.

One of the most captivating qualities in your music is your ability as a lyricist. Is your writing process instinctual or something you’re always thinking about?
I run on instincts. It’s what feels right and what sounds good. I love a good story, word play and euphemisms

You’ve said the song is about living beyond your means. What’s the biggest purchase you’ve made this year?
[Laughs] don’t draw me out! Besides holidays, my biggest purchase is probably my 65” 4K UHD OLED TV! I also bought some pricey Apple headphones at the same time so I was clearly deep in retail therapy.

Do you think of yourself as more of a saver or a spender?
Spender! Money will come and go but my happiness - that’s forever! Terms and conditions apply, save appropriately.

As the lead to your upcoming 2024 project, should we expect the sound to maintain this liveliness?
Absolutely, I’ve found my pocket of music that blends pop and neo-soul in my unique way. The music is upbeat, it’s shady, it’s sexy - I’ve said some daring things that have left those who have listened gobsmacked and I’m so excited and nervous for people to hear them all.

For day one fans of Saint Joshua, what do you think might surprise them about the upcoming project?
The debauchery. After all, I am a Saint.