Justin Nozuka started writing songs at age 12. When the rest of us were just trying to figure ourselves out, he was singing and learning to play guitar, recording tracks that would end up on his debut CD, Holly, named after his mother (aww!).
Of course, it helps that he’s got a pretty talented pedigree: his aunt is actress Kyra Sedgwick and two of his brothers, George and Philip, are also musicians.
“We formed a group together, me and my brothers. At that time, we were called Mist. We performed at the Lions Club. They were doing a fashion show, and we had a little slot to play. That was one of my first shows.”
But despite diving into the music biz at such a young age, in many ways, Justin was just a typical kid growing up in the burbs. He played hockey (with the Richmond Hill Stars) and “used to go to Hillcrest Mall a lot and pick up chicks.”
Fast forward a few short years, and he’s remained grounded even though he’s reached an astounding level of success for someone his age. He was nominated for a Juno in 2008, has toured around the world and was chosen as one of Canada’s top artists to collaborate on K’naan’s “Wavin’ Flag” single in support of earthquake victims in Haiti.
Giving back is important to him: “Music is definitely my vehicle, and ultimately, the main goal is to do something positive for the world.”
For now, he’s just happy to be back home in the GTA. “I did a lot of touring for four years,” he says. “I just set up my own studio in my first place — I’m finally living on my own! — so I’m going to be creating here in Toronto. We’re working on the next album right now that will be released probably early next year.”