J Williams: the moves and the sound

There's no doubting Joshua Williams, aka J Williams, has the moves being a national champion and world class dancer. Now he's out to prove he has the voice too.

He's a member of the national champion Prestige hip hop street dancing crew which came fourth in this year's World Champs, and (under the name Dziah) came second two years ago.

Now the 21 year-old Samoan from south Auckland is out to prove he has the voice to also make it to the top and a growing following of fans believe this too. His debut single 'Blow your mind' has just been released with an accompanying Chris Brown-like music video, funded by NZ On Air.

Singing is already in the family genes. Williams is the younger brother of Lavina Williams who was part of an R&B girl group MaVelle in the 90s. His other sister Emily Williams was placed second in Australian Idol in 2006 and is now thriving in the success of music girl group Young Divas.

"I grew up in a very musical family, sort of reminds me of the Jackson Five upbringing. My father was very strict when it came to music and religion and this has helped to make me who I am today," says Williams.

"A strong passion of mine is to perform whether it be dancing or singing. I love the feeling of entertaining people. It's awesome."

See J Williams smooth and live with Illegal Musik at Mangawhai Tavern, Saturday September 22, 9pm-1am. Tickets $10, available at the Tavern ph 431 4505