Josiah Wise, known by his stage name Serpent With Feet, was born on September 7, 1988, in Maryland. Growing up in a Christian family in Baltimore, he spent his early years immersed in gospel music. Wise began his musical journey as a gospel choirboy, where he developed a deep love for the powerful and emotive sounds of gospel music. These early experiences would later influence his unique sound as an artist.
Wise first ventured into the music industry in 2012 when he released his debut EP titled paraboLA under the stage name GodBodi. This project showcased Wise's experimental sound, drawing on influences from 90's R&B, gospel, blues, and electronic genres. Despite its underground release, paraboLA garnered attention for its innovative approach to music production.
Throughout his early career, Wise experimented with different stage names, including Father Mercury Raphael, before ultimately settling on Serpent With Feet. The name reflects his unique blend of raw emotion and spiritual themes in his music, capturing the essence of his sound perfectly.
Wise gained widespread recognition in the music industry in the 2010s, thanks to his wholly original sound and captivating stage presence. His first full-length album, Soil, was released in 2018 and marked a significant milestone in his career. The album was a collaborative effort between record labels Secretly Canadian and Tri Angle, further solidifying Wise's place in the experimental music scene.
One of Wise's biggest influences is the iconic musician Bjork. Their mutual admiration for each other's work led to a collaboration on a remix of Bjork's song "Blissing Me," showcasing their shared passion for pushing the boundaries of music.
Wise is openly gay, and his music often reflects his experiences as a queer individual. His lyrics delve into themes of love, identity, and spirituality, offering listeners a glimpse into his personal journey. This vulnerability and honesty have endeared him to fans and critics alike, cementing his status as a rising star in the music industry.
As an artist, Serpent With Feet continues to challenge traditional notions of genre and style, carving out a unique space for himself in the music world. His innovative approach to music production and heartfelt lyrics have earned him a loyal following, and his influence is sure to resonate for years to come.
Overall, Josiah Wise, aka Serpent With Feet, remains an artist to watch, with his blend of soulful vocals, experimental soundscapes, and poignant storytelling setting him apart in a crowded industry. His commitment to authenticity and creativity ensures that his music will continue to captivate audiences and inspire fellow musicians for years to come.