King Joseph, originally Joseph Dempsey Franklin born on June 9, 1980, hails from Brookhaven, MS, as the offspring of Loretta Franklin and Howard Kelly. The family relocated to California in 1984, making Sacramento their new home. King Joseph's formative years unfolded during the early 90s, a period dominated by the burgeoning hip-hop culture. Growing up amidst inner-city gang influences, navigating the challenges of maintaining focus and staying on the right path became a significant struggle for children raised by a single parent.
The streets became an inherent part of life, and music emerged as a vital means of escape. The allure of storytelling within the art form captivated King Joseph, with influential figures like E-40, The Click, C-bo, RBL Posse, Ice Cube, and Master P shaping his aspirations to become a rapper.
In 1997, a pivotal move took place as King Joseph ventured to the Midwest. Confronted with personal challenges that led to trouble, his Uncle Roddy Kelly played a crucial role in providing support. Under his guidance, they engaged in concrete work across the United States, instilling in King Joseph the hustler mentality he carried from his Californian upbringing. Subsequently, he delved into the street life, demonstrating his resourcefulness.
By the age of 17, King Joseph had secured his own car and place. A conflict with an individual named Moosie, representative of Midwest gang dynamics, initially sparked tension but eventually transformed into a lasting friendship. This period marked the onset of King Joseph's daily engagement with rap, facilitated by Moosie's brother B-fly and his studio. Together, they formed a rap group, laying the foundation for King Joseph's understanding of the rap game, resulting in the recording of numerous songs.
Following his uncle's return to Mississippi, King Joseph followed suit, and together they established their own studio. Despite recording for years, King Joseph struggled to find his distinct sound. The pivotal year 2008 witnessed his return to California, accompanied by enrollment at Sacramento City College to study music. Here, he honed his skills in beat-making and recording, laying the groundwork for his musical journey. Subsequently, King Joseph has crafted over a thousand songs, tirelessly dedicated to his craft. His music serves as a narrative of his life, a personal story he shares with the world, inviting listeners to enjoy each track and be a part of his journey.