Joe was born in Fayetteville Arkansas to Sarge and Shirley West a country music duo with origins in traditional Country and Gospel. Sarge and Shirley, an African American couple, broke down walls and helped build the foundation for other artist to be able to pursue Country & Western Music. They had national success with two hits, “Ain’t It A Shame” and “Good Time Tonight”, both written by Sarge.
Joe sang with his parents while growing up and later started a busy solo career. A pivotal moment for Joe came one night in New Mexico when he fell asleep at the wheel and totaled his car. Joe evaluated his life, his dreams and ambitions and made the move to Nashville. Joe quickly began to gain attention by winning The Gibson Songwriting Contest, becoming a finalist on The Charlie Daniels Roundup and being asking to join The Nashville Songwriters Tour. He has infused a diversity of styles in his music and has been described as a cross between, Merle Haggard, James Taylor,Stevie Wonder and Kenny Loggins.
You could write a book on Joe’s life from the events that have transpired just in the last few years. He has survived heart failure, a condition known as a Dissected Aorta. He continues to battle Spinal Stenosis. And he is the survivor of a devastating tornado that blew the roof off of a Nashville restaurant in which he was eating. Joe West is clearly alive for a reason, perhaps to entertain, perhaps to inspire, or perhaps to give hope to those facing incredible odds. Joe West is the REAL deal.