By Henry 
Ever wonder what it feels like to grow up with R&B and hip-hop royalty all around you, yet still find your own voice in the music game? That’s the story of Joshua Russaw. As the son of singer Faith Evans and producer Todd Russaw, he carries a heavyweight family name, but he’s quietly building something authentic on his own terms. From studio sessions as a kid to earning Grammy recognition as a producer and DJ, Joshua Russaw represents the next chapter in a legendary musical lineage.
Joshua Jahad Russaw, professionally known as Jahad or DJ Jahad, came into the world on June 10, 1998, right on his mother Faith Evans’ 25th birthday. Born in the United States and raised primarily in the Los Angeles area, he turned 27 this year and still calls the West Coast home. Fans of 90s R&B often recognize him as part of the famous blended family tied to Bad Boy Records and The Notorious B.I.G., but Joshua has always preferred to let his work speak louder than the headlines.
He stands out as a multifaceted talent: producer, DJ, singer, songwriter, beatmaker, and arranger. His sound mixes classic R&B soul with hip-hop storytelling and even a touch of reggae flavor. It’s the kind of music that feels both nostalgic and fresh, exactly what you’d expect from someone who literally grew up inside recording studios.
Life for Joshua Russaw wasn’t your average childhood. With parents deeply embedded in the music industry, he spent his early years tagging along to sessions, watching his mom lay down vocals and his dad handle production and management duties. Faith Evans has often shared how she prioritized family over endless touring, so Joshua and his siblings experienced a relatively grounded upbringing despite the celebrity surroundings.
His parents married in the summer of 1998, shortly after his birth, and stayed together until their divorce in 2011. Joshua was just 13 when that chapter closed, but the family stayed close. Those formative years shaped him deeply. He absorbed the craft early, learning the difference between a good hook and a great one just by being present. No wonder music felt less like a career choice and more like a family language.
You can’t talk about Joshua Russaw without mentioning his parents. Faith Evans, the First Lady of Bad Boy Records, brought him into a world defined by timeless hits like “I’ll Be Missing You.” His father, Todd Russaw, built a respected career as a producer and talent manager. Together they created a home filled with creativity and resilience.
That legacy extends further. Joshua shares a half-brother bond with Christopher Jordan “C.J.” Wallace, son of Faith and The Notorious B.I.G. He also has an older half-sister, Chyna Tahjere Griffin, and a younger full brother, Ryder Evan Russaw. The family dynamics reflect a modern blended unit that has faced public scrutiny but chosen privacy and support over drama. Joshua has spoken through his music about honoring that history while refusing to be defined by it alone.
Joshua Russaw didn’t just inherit talent. He honed it. Known on stage and in the booth as DJ Jahad or simply JAHAD, he has toured as his mother’s official DJ and built a reputation for high-energy sets that keep crowds moving. He also rapped alongside brother C.J. as part of the duo CJ & Jahad and has been involved with creative collectives like The Fixtion.
His production credits keep growing. Most notably, he earned his first major placement as a producer on Durand Bernarr’s album Bloom, which picked up Grammy recognition in the Progressive R&B category. Faith Evans proudly posted about the milestone, calling it a proud-mom moment that highlighted Joshua’s hard work. He has also collaborated with artists such as CYN and others, blending his R&B archivist roots with forward-thinking beats.
Beyond the studio, Joshua stays involved in meaningful causes. He supports his brother Ryder through Ryders Room Inc., a foundation focused on autism awareness and special-needs families. That blend of creativity and compassion shows a man who understands legacy isn’t just about hits. It’s about impact.
Family remains at the center of Joshua’s world. He shares a close relationship with all his siblings, from big sister Chyna, who keeps a lower public profile, to C.J., who has pursued acting and music while honoring their father Biggie’s memory. Youngest brother Ryder inspires the whole family with his journey, and Joshua often shows up for him in both personal and public ways.
These relationships keep him grounded. In interviews and social media glimpses, you see a guy who values real connection over flash. Growing up with celebrity parents and step-siblings taught him early how to navigate attention while protecting what matters most.
These days Joshua Russaw maintains a relatively low-key but active presence online. His Instagram account @jahadrussaw gives followers a peek into studio life, DJ gigs, family moments, and even personal hobbies like golf and horseback riding. With thousands of followers, it feels authentic rather than curated for clout.
He continues to evolve as an artist. Recent conversations hint at new music on the horizon, including possible solo projects and an EP titled something along the lines of “Daydreamers.” Whether behind the decks, in the booth, or producing for others, Joshua keeps showing that the Russaw-Evans musical bloodline runs strong, but he’s writing his own verses.
Joshua’s path offers a few clear takeaways for anyone chasing creative dreams, especially those coming from famous families:
- Respect the roots but trust your own sound.
- Put in the work quietly. The spotlight will find you when the music is ready.
- Family support goes both ways. Give back to the people who lifted you up.
- Stay versatile. Joshua moves seamlessly between DJing, producing, singing, and songwriting.
- Use your platform for good. Supporting causes like autism awareness adds real depth to any career.
If you’re an aspiring producer or DJ, Joshua proves that passion plus persistence can carve out space even when the last name already opens doors.
What’s your favorite memory of Faith Evans’ music, or have you followed any of the next-generation artists from classic hip-hop families? Drop a comment. I’d love to hear which tracks from Joshua or his collaborations you’re spinning right now.
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How old is Joshua Russaw and when is his birthday?
Joshua Russaw was born on June 10, 1998, making him 27 years old as of 2026. Interestingly, he shares the exact birthday with his mother, Faith Evans.
What does Joshua Russaw do for a living?
He works as a professional DJ, music producer, singer, songwriter, beatmaker, and arranger. He has toured as Faith Evans’ DJ and earned Grammy-winning production credits.
Who are Joshua Russaw’s parents?
His mother is Grammy-winning R&B singer Faith Evans and his father is music producer and former talent manager Todd Russaw. The couple divorced in 2011 after marrying in 1998.
Does Joshua Russaw have siblings?
Yes. He has an older half-sister Chyna Tahjere Griffin, an older half-brother C.J. Wallace (son of Faith and The Notorious B.I.G.), and a younger full brother Ryder Evan Russaw.
What is Joshua Russaw’s social media presence?
He is active on Instagram under @jahadrussaw, where he shares music updates, DJ sets, family moments, and personal interests like golf and horseback riding.
How is Joshua Russaw connected to Bad Boy Records and The Notorious B.I.G.?
Through his mother Faith Evans, who was married to Biggie and became a key figure on Bad Boy Records. Joshua grew up immersed in that iconic hip-hop and R&B legacy.
Has Joshua Russaw released his own music?
Yes. He has collaborated with his brother C.J. as part of CJ & Jahad, contributed production to major projects, and continues developing solo work and potential EPs while maintaining his role as a sought-after producer and DJ.