Conversations with Joe Folan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joe Folan

Hi Joe, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a musician from Boston, MA. I moved to Nashville a little over 3 years ago. During that time, I’ve become a guitarist, singer, and songwriter of note among many different circles. I’ve been running a weekly jazz jam session for 3 years at The Villager Tavern. Many notable musicians have attended including (but not limited to) Joel Frahm, Cecil Alexander, and Reggie Wooten. The jam has fostered a community that allows jazz musicians to experiment and grow with each other. On top of that, I sing and play in downtown Nashville on a regular basis as a front person and gun for hire. I recently released a solo album called “Octogenarian” available on all streaming platforms. I’m very proud of how it came out. Especially the tracks with my horn arrangements. I believe I’ve cultivated a reputation as a capable musician and community leader during my relatively brief time here.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There have been plenty of challenges along the way. When I first moved to town, I carved out a niche playing around Printer’s Alley playing at venues such as Alley Taps and Skull’s Rainbow Room. After losing those slots due to politics, management and the like, I was forced to seek work elsewhere in venues on 2nd Ave and Lower Broadway. As a Blues/RnB/Jazz based player, it was pretty hard to get a foothold into the scene in downtown Nashville where Country/Pop rule the roost. Eventually, I was able to find some folks with the same musical values as me. These values are marked by lyricism over shredding and musicality over self indulgence. I’m very thankful to have found musicians who pull in the same direction.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a guitarist, singer, songwriter and music teacher. I specialize in Blues, Rock n’ Roll, RnB, Jazz, and Americana. I believe what sets me apart from others in this town is my vast knowledge of music history and my need to deliver a lyrical approach in my singing, writing, and playing. In a town full of egos and clout climbing, I believe in the sum of the parts whenever I play with a band. I put my own need for attention last in favor of the collective and the groove of a project.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Listening to records and going to concerts with my father. He passed away in 2018 but he was THE most important aspect of my musical education.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.joefolan.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/jfolan7
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/raddadrock97
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/GuitarbyJMF