Joel Culpepper is a London-based singer and songwriter who works in soul, hip hop-influenced R&B, electronic and pop. Born in 1984, he develops a sound that blends soul with hip hop elements and presents it as an alternative take on contemporary black music.

He performs with a live band called The Transformers. The group changes instruments during his sets, with each musician switching roles as part of the performance. Culpepper builds his reputation through the live circuit, where he develops a distinctive style and a catalogue of original songs.

Releases

In 2009, Culpepper issues his first mixtape, The Adventures of Pensmith, which draws attention from UK brand Box Fresh. In February 2011, he releases Joel Culpepper Meets J. Dilla, a mixtape tribute to the producer J Dilla that attracts interest from bloggers and music fans. The project also highlights his songwriting and his unusual vocal style.

Style

Culpepper’s music is described as hip hop-soul infused, and he is noted for a distinctive voice and an emphasis on individuality. His work is presented as honest and rooted in live performance, with a focus on versatility across styles.