SoundCloud’s Ascending is a monthly series spotlighting emerging artists from around the globe who are ready to break through. To date, this year’s class has featured rapper 1900Rugrat, indie pop artist Erin LeCount, genre-blending honestav, alternative R&B artist SAILORR and now is celebrating Josh Baker, an artist and DJ solidifying his name at the forefront of modern house music.
Josh has been committed to his craft for well over a decade now, with SoundCloud playing a key role in his journey from the start. He first joined the platform in 2013, and has since uploaded more than 750 tracks. Throughout that time, he has shared works in progress and early snippets of forthcoming releases to build momentum.
“Be patient and always keep chipping away,” Josh Baker says, reflecting on his formative days on SoundCloud. “Find enjoyment in the journey and don’t rush the destination.”
Josh’s early years in Manchester saw him build a foundation with his You&Me party series, which has since expanded across Europe. In parallel, he launched SYNTHO, a music tech start-up focused on electronic music education, and Hide&Seek Festival, which has become one of the UK’s respected boutique gatherings. For the 2025 edition, Josh headlined the festival alongside Leeds electronic music duo Prospa for a special back-to-back set. The line-up also featured the likes of Enzo Siragusa, Shonky, Traumer, Sweely, Sonja Moonear and more, and has already confirmed its anticipated return in 2026.
A driving force in minimal and deep tech, Josh became the most sold artist in both genres on Beatport in 2024, with his cutting-edge sound sought after by fellow DJs and electronic enthusiasts alike. Known for his seamless mixing and meticulously curated sets, he brings a new approach to each performance, whether in an intimate club or on a festival main stage.
“I would describe my sound as a blend between the new and the old,” Josh says. “I try to bring touches from the early ’90s, but also want things to sound fresh and futuristic.”
Thanks to hard work, perseverance and commitment to his craft, the past year has seen Josh’s career reach new heights. In March 2025, “Back It Up,” Josh Baker’s collaboration with Omar+, entered the UK Singles chart, going on to reach No. 58 during its impactful 12-week run on the chart. Teased early on SoundCloud, the track reached over 95,000 plays before release and garnered support from artists including Solomun, MK and Jamie Jones, to name a few. Josh was also named BBC Radio 1 Dance Future Artist, culminating in a month-long residency on the world-renowned station. His follow-up track, “You Don’t Own Me” with Prospa, also debuted in the Top 100 on the UK Singles chart upon its anticipated release.
Beyond releasing original productions, Josh has taken a hands-on approach to building community around his label. His imprint Bakers Dozen marked its official debut with two pop-up events, one in a working bakery in Manchester, nodding to his roots, and another set in a laundromat during Miami Music Week, where he performed four sets across the week, including a sold-out You&Me showcase.
In August, Josh will celebrate You&Me’s 10th anniversary at the legendary venue 528 Ibiza, marking another milestone in a year that has seen two records break into the UK’s official charts and his profile as a producer and curator grow in tandem.
From charting records to curating grassroots events, Josh Baker’s story reflects a steady dedication to sound and culture, with the DJ/producer pushing forward a new generation of house music — rooted in groove, connection and creativity.
We can’t wait to see what Josh Baker does next. Follow him on SoundCloud to keep up with his journey and never miss a new release.
LISTEN TO “YOU DON’T OWN ME (FEAT. RAHH)” BY PROSPA & JOSH BAKER ON SOUNDCLOUD NOW
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