David Joseph
David Joseph is a British singer, keyboardist, songwriter, and producer best known as a founder and lead vocalist of the Brit-funk band Hi-Tension. Born David Nathaniel Joseph, he formed Hi-Tension (originally Hot Waxx) in North West London around 1971 with his brother Ken Joseph on bass, Paul Philips on guitar, and others including Jeff Guishard and the McLean brothers. The band pioneered Brit-funk, signing with Island Records in 1978 for hits like "Hi-Tension" (UK #20) and "British Hustle" (UK Top 10), with their debut album reaching #54. Joseph left the group after this success to pursue solo work.
In 1983, Joseph released his debut solo album The Joys of Life on Island Records, featuring the hit "You Can't Hide (Your Love from Me)" (UK #13, remixed by Larry Levan) and "Let's Live It Up (Nite People)" (UK #26). Other singles included "Be a Star" (#81), "Joys of Life" (#61), and later "No Turning Back" (#85) on 4th & Broadway in 1987. He issued further material on Mango and a Hi-Tension reunion greatest hits album.
Post-1980s, Joseph performed on the UK club circuit, appearing at events like Summer Soulstice in 2010-2011. Hi-Tension briefly reformed without him in 1984. No confirmed death date appears in records, and he remains linked to Brit-funk legacy through live dates and reissues.
The Joys Of Life
A2 Joys Of Life 4:47
A3 Guiding Star 4:27
A4 Baby Won't You Take My Love 5:18
A5 You Can't Hide (Your Love From Me) 3:28
B1 Dreaming 5:31
B2 Be A Star 5:39
B3 I'm So In Love 4:46
B4 Do You Feel My Love Now Baby 6:15
Label: Island Records – ILPS 9739
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: UK
Released: 1983
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Soul, Funk, Boogie
David Joseph's 1983 solo debut, The Joys of Life, is a cornerstone of the Brit-funk movement, produced by Godwin Logie with contributions from members of the group Hi-Tension.
The album is characterized by its blend of electronic, funk, and soul. A mix of Soul, Funk, and Post-Disco Boogie.
Key Tracks... "You Can’t Hide (Your Love From Me)": Often highlighted for its "serious soul" and "earworm" hook; "Guiding Star": Praised as a "great boogie track" exclusive to this LP. "No Time To Waste": A staple of the original album version.
Reviews often describe it as an "excellent" and "super smooth" record. Noted as an "essential listen" for fans of underground funk and soul, even appearing in late 2025 retrospective discussions.
As of 2026, the album maintains a strong reputation among collectors and soul enthusiasts. It holds a high average of 4.33 to 4.48 out of 5 stars across various releases.