WMP 155: Jammin' Through the Journey: Joe Kennedy's Musical Odyssey from Wisconsin to New Orleans

Wisconsin Music Podcast

WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
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Episode 155
Big Joe Kennedy

WEBSITE

www.bigjoekennedy.com

SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.facebook.com/bigjoekennedy

https://instagram.com/bigjoekennedy

https://www.youtube.com/user/bigjoekennedy

https://www.tiktok.com/@bigjoekennedy

Hey there, music lovers! Welcome back to another episode of the Wisconsin Music Podcast. I'm your host, Zach Fell, and today we're diving deep into the vibrant music scene of Wisconsin and beyond. Our special guest for this episode is the incredibly talented Joe Kennedy, a keyboard player, educator, and all-around cool guy from Racine, Wisconsin.

Joe’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. He kick-started his musical adventure at the tender age of eight and has never looked back since. From his early days in Wisconsin, attending open jam sessions and soaking up invaluable lessons from local musicians, to earning his bachelor's degree from UW Parkside and a master's in performance from Las Vegas, Joe’s story is a testament to passion and perseverance.

Now based in New Orleans, Joe has been making waves for the past 15 years, playing everything from New Orleans traditional jazz to R&B. We chat about the stark differences and surprising similarities between the music scenes in southeastern Wisconsin and New Orleans. It’s fascinating to hear how Joe navigated these diverse musical landscapes and found his niche.

Beyond performing, Joe is also deeply committed to education. He hosts a monthly jam session for young musicians, providing a platform for beginners to play alongside seasoned professionals. He’s even written a book, "Spread the Jam," aimed at helping young musicians understand the ins and outs of jam sessions, complete with audio examples and practical advice.

Joe’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians is truly commendable. He shares his experiences and insights with a warmth and generosity that’s sure to inspire both aspiring musicians and seasoned pros alike. From heartwarming stories of mentorship to practical tips on navigating the music industry, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and join us as we celebrate the incredible journey of Joe Kennedy on the Wisconsin Music Podcast. Whether you’re a musician, an educator, or just a fan of good music, this episode has something for everyone. Let’s get jammin’!

For more details on Joe's book and how to access it, especially if you're a band director, head over to his website, bigjoekennedy.com. And if you’re enjoying our episodes, please consider supporting the Wisconsin Music Podcast through donations, likes, and reviews. Every bit helps in amplifying the amazing music coming out of Wisconsin. Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll see you next week!