Have You Heard? #15: Javeon

Having first gained recognition for his silky-smooth vocals and early R&B collaborations, Bristol-based singer-songwriter Javeon’s story as an artist is rooted in constant evolution in search of true authenticity.

With a long-standing relationship with Bristol Beacon that began when he was just 19, in the years since, Javeon has worked tirelessly to refine his sound – working with tastemaker labels such as Shogun Audio and genre heavyweights such as DJ Marky and Gardna along the way. Now firmly rooted in liquid drum and bass, and boasting an infectious sound that marries thunderous bass with ethereal, soulful vocals, Javeon continues to maintain his reputation as a pioneer within the genre.

Ahead of his landmark headline show at The Cellars next month, we spoke to Javeon to learn more about his journey to liquid drum and bass, his new digital imprint, what we can expect from his upcoming show, and to find out what he’s been listening to.

What can you tell us about yourself and your journey as an artist?

I’m a singer from Bristol who makes predominantly soulful drum and bass music. Over the years I’ve been part of various scenes and genres, but never quite like I fit in until I found liquid drum and bass.

Outside of my music, I help young people from underrepresented communities get jobs in the festival circuit through an organisation I co-run called Big Team and I also run a popular music centre for Bristol Beacon. I’ve actually been working with the Beacon in various ways since I was 19 – mostly helping up-and-coming performers.

You were known as an R&B artist for some time, but your sound has evolved quite drastically over the years. What inspired that change?

I grew up surrounded by R&B and fell in love with the genre. When I began singing and writing my own music, I knew that as long as the foundations were soulful, I could be versatile and sing over anything.

My journey into dance music started in secondary school, when I was introduced to garage and grime. There wasn’t much space for soulful melodies, but it was my first experience of being part of a musical community – and it’s where I discovered I could rap.

Over the years, I’ve moved in and out of genres that fused bass music with R&B – experimenting with different sounds and approaches. Eventually, that path led me to liquid drum and bass, where I found the perfect balance between energy, community and soul.

You recently launched your digital imprint; Drums & Keys. What can you tell us about the label and what inspired that decision?

When working with established labels, it can sometimes be difficult to grow your own community if your music doesn’t fully align with their style.

I have huge respect for the labels I’ve previously worked with, and I still plan to work with them, but I’ve discovered a sound that truly fulfils me as an artist. I need the space to develop it further – and to enjoy the process.

That’s why I’ve created Drums & Keys – it’s a platform dedicated to releasing R&B-influenced drum and bass where I can share music that feels authentic, soulful, and true to who I am.

What makes a great live music experience for you?

One that’s designed to truly entertain – not just a showcase of the art itself, but a performance that places the audience at its centre. For me, that means creating moments where people feel connected – whether that’s through call and response, movement, or sharing the energy of the room.

A live show should leave people with memories they carry with them long after, and that only happens when the performance balances artistry with the audience’s experience.

You’re headlining The Weston Stage next month for what’s set to be a very important show for you – what separates your live sets from most D&B shows and what can we look forward to?

It’s fairly common for a D&B audience to see a live PA, but what’s far less common is an event built entirely around the vocal artist – their music, their style and their story.

Audience numbers aren’t guaranteed this way – so it’s definitely riskier, but I wanted to offer my audience a fresh experience, and choosing Bristol Beacon as the venue reflects that. It’s not a typical D&B setting, but as the show runs earlier in the evening, its more accessible to people that might not usually be able to catch me late at night. Plus I’m bringing along some incredible support acts, special guests and even limited-edition merch to make sure it’s a truly memorable night.

What’s one artist that you’ve been listening to recently and can recommend?

Thomas Oliver – Shine like the sun – this track may be an older one, but I keep coming back to it. It’s the perfect bridge between R&B, soul, and drum and bass music.