Category: Ashleigh Joseph

Ashleigh Joseph (professionally known as Ashleigh J or Ashleigh J – Music Is Life) is a Durban-based South African vocalist and full-time entertainer specialising in pop, R&B, and especially classic 1960s–1980s hits.

Background and Musical Roots

She was born and raised in Parlock, Durban, and later lived in Essenwood. Her full name appears as Ashleigh Thea Jackson in profiles, with the Joseph connection coming from her father. She comes from a strongly musical family: her father, Gabriel Joseph, is a long-time professional musician (trumpeter) who served 42 years in South African National Defence Force bands (Navy and Army). Her late maternal grandmother, Lorraine Naidoo, was also a singer. She frequently performs with her father and cousin Anthony Joseph as part of the multi-generational Dukes Combo, a band with a history spanning around 67 years.

She began singing around age 4 (recording herself on her father’s tape recorder). She joined the children’s choir at St Anne’s Catholic Parish in Sydenham, progressed to solo church performances, and landed her first paid public/contract gig at age 10 (for the National Port Authority, celebrating 10 years of democracy, with an audience of over 1,000).

After high school (Sastri College, matric in 2010), she explored drama, music, and beauty technology. She worked as a qualified beautician for several years (including running a home-based salon) before going full-time into music when gigs became too demanding to balance with a day job.

Style, Releases, and Performances

Ashleigh J is known for a strong, clear voice suited to soulful covers and classic hits. She has expressed a particular love for 1960s–1980s music (noting she feels “born in the wrong era” despite being a 1990s baby). Favourite songs she has mentioned include Whitney Houston’s “Saving All My Love for You” and “The Greatest Love of All” (the latter in its George Benson original form as well).

She released the original single Signs in 2019; it is available on digital platforms including Spotify.

She is a very active live performer, appearing regularly at venues, hotels, casinos, restaurants, mall openings, weddings, birthdays, corporate events, and private functions across Durban and KwaZulu-Natal, with occasional dates in Johannesburg. Career highlights include:

  • Performing at openings of places such as Oceans Mall, The Pearls, and Radisson Blu.
  • Opening for American singer CeCe Peniston.
  • Sharing stages with local acts including Jamali, MiCasa, Veranda Panda, and Dr Victor and the Rasta Rebels.
  • Performing at high-profile private events (e.g., birthdays linked to well-known Durban figures) and meeting local political figures.

She also hosts or features in her own social events under the “Let’s Socialize” banner (often with DJs, food, giveaways, and a mix of 70s/80s/90s and current dance hits) and provides full entertainment packages (solo, band, MC services, sound/lighting).

Online Presence and Contact

Her main public hub is the Facebook page Ashleigh J – Music Is Life (South African 🇿🇦 Durban-based vocalist; tagline “Where words fail, Music Speaks 🎶”). She posts frequent gig guides, performance videos, and event promotions there. A website (ajmusicislife.co.za) is linked from the page, primarily for contact. She is also active on TikTok (@ashleighj_musicislife). A 2025 interview noted more than 150,000 combined followers across platforms.

A commonly listed contact number for bookings is 074 310 0551 (call/WhatsApp). She has been featured in local media, including East Coast Radio (around the time of her popular Maroon 5 “Memories” cover) and a detailed profile in The Post/IOL in December 2025.

Personal Notes

As of the late 2025 interview she has a young daughter and prioritises time with her. She has spoken openly about the realities of full-time entertainment work (no traditional sick leave, the pressure of social media negativity, and the need for perseverance). Her advice to aspiring singers focuses on developing a unique voice and style, regular practice, networking, collaboration, and staying true to oneself.

In short, Ashleigh J is a well-established and busy Durban live vocalist known for polished classic and contemporary covers, strong family musical roots, and consistent local performances. For the latest gigs or bookings, her Facebook page is the most up-to-date source.