Joshua Watkins is a masterful drummer and brilliant artist who hails from the great city of Detroit, Michigan. Born into a vast family of musicians, it was only natural for him to become musically inclined as well. At a young age, his musical roots started in the church and since then he has grown to be extremely versatile, not only as a drummer but as a composer, producer, and bandleader.

Joshua began attending Michigan State University as a Jazz Studies major on scholarship in 2019. During his time at MSU, he studied under jazz great and legendary drummer Randy Gelispie, while also teaching and performing domestically and internationally. In April of 2022, he received the Outstanding Drummer Award at the Jazz at Lincoln Center Jack Rudin Jazz Championship in New York City, where MSU Jazz Orchestra I also won 1st place. Two years later, in April of 2024, Joshua obtained his bachelor’s degree in Jazz Studies, and shortly after traveled to Japan with MSU Jazz Orchestra I, performing concerts and assisting in masterclasses in Tokyo, Narita, and Osaka.

Since graduating, Joshua has continued to make major strides as an artist. On May 2nd, 2025, he released his debut album, REDEMPTION, a deeply personal and spiritually driven body of work that reflects his walk with God, his challenges, growth, and triumphs. REDEMPTION is available now on all streaming platforms. Now based in Baltimore, Maryland, as a Peabody master’s student, he leads his band, Ascension, whose name reflects his ongoing journey of rising to new heights in artistry and influence. Together, REDEMPTION and Ascension stand as powerful testaments to his guiding mantra: “The Only Trajectory Is Upwards.” He gives thanks to his family, friends, and all the glory to God, carrying forward his vision of music as healing and a continual rising toward something greater.