Daily Inspiration: Meet Joe West

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joe West

Hi Joe, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Music has always been an a huge journey in my family. Parents were part time musicians. Sarge and Shirley West. There has been a documentary made by Crosword Films that tells some of that story called “A Song Can Change a Life” They were a Country Western Duo back in the 60’s and 70’s. Came to Nashville had some success and was my Dads dream to live here in Nashville and make music. I am literally living his dream.

My Dad gave me my first guitar when I was twelve, taught me a few chords and I. was off and running. Would go with shows with my parents and watch and dream of doing the same. They were obviously a black couple playing country music to primarily white audiences. The impact on hate and race back then was incredible and I have used that as part of my purpose as well.

Played in Top forty bands in my early years and of course life started with marriage, kids a real job etc. Worked in retail management for 27 years until I had a dissected aorta in a store and nearly died.

This was the worst and the best thing in terms of music that could have ever happened. It gave me the courage to really pursue music as a full time profession.

I think my bio gives a small picture of my current situation

Singer Songwriter Joe West is the son of Sarge and Shirley West, the first and only African American Country and Western Duo.(www.asongcanchangealife.com) He was raised on a healthy diet of traditional country music, rock, folk, blues, and jazz. His performances take you on an amazing musical journey.

Described as a cross between Kenny Rogers, James Taylor, Stevie Wonder, and Merle Haggard, Joe’s music is a recipe for sheer enjoyment.

Currently residing in Nashville, TN, Joe is the house band for The Nashville International Airport and a warm welcome to thousands who visit and call Nashville home.

He has had multiple performances at the world-famous Bluebird Cafe, private events at the home of the legendary Naomi Judd, opened for Keith Urban, Sara Evans, The Wooten Brothers, been a finalist on the Charlie Daniels Round-Up and performed at other exclusive venues including, Thirds & Lindsley as a special guest of Wendy Moten, The George Jones Roof Top, Ole Red, The City Winery and the world-famous Tootsie’s, The Kennedy Center, Main stage, 4th of July celebration on broadway, downtown Nashville TN, The Country Music Hall of Fame, The African American Music Museum to name a few.

Joe is a survivor of a dissected aorta and has an incredible story to tell through his life and music. His life is a miracle and he will tell you himself that he knows he is “the richest man in the world”.

I am grateful everyday for the gift of music and the power it has to impact the lives of people in such a powerful way.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I have had to work harder that I ever have. The music industry is a challenging one. Especially here in Nashville. Some of the greatest musicians in the world. I am also still up against the race issue in Country music.

But it is also the most fulfilling profession.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a full time musician in Nashville TN. Have been The House Band at The Nashville International Airport for 13 years now. As mentioned in my bio I have had the honor of opening for Kieth Urban, Sara Evans and others.

I think the thing I am most proud of is being able to maintain music as my full time profession in Nashville TN.

I think my blend of styles is a big part of what sets me apart. James Taylor, Merle Haggard, Kenny Rogers and Stevie Wonder, all those influences are what you hear in my music.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Don’t give up. Try to position yourself around other musicians who are already doing it at a high level.

I wish I had been more receptive to constructive criticism.

Pricing:

• Single: $600-base
• Duo: $1500-base
• Trio:$ 2500-base
• 4pc: $3800-base
• 5pc: $6000-base

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.hestherichestman.com