Artist Spotlight – Joe Caverlee

By: Marsha Channell

Dayton, Ohio is one of the most populous cities in Ohio. Dayton was founded in 1796 and named after Jonathan Dayton, a founding father who owned a significant amount of land in the area. Dayton is most notably known for the Wright brothers, who developed the first successful motor-operated airplane. The Old Court House in town is where Abraham Lincoln delivered an address on September 17, 1859. Along with having historical events, Dayton is also ranked within the top 10% in the nation for arts and culture. With all that said, let me introduce you to my January Artist Spotlight, Joe Caverlee.

While Joe grew up near Dayton, OH he also grew up in a family with strong music influences. Joe’s dad had a great record collection (orchestra, country and bluegrass) and was the one that introduced him to Billy Vaughn, American musician, and his orchestra. Listening to Billy Vaughn Orchestra was the first time Joe heard the well-known song ‘Orange Blossom Special’ and the gravitation to the fiddle began. Yes, Joe might have started on the piano and guitar but when his grandmother promised to give him a violin that belong to his grandpa and the song “Devil Went Down to Georgia” just came out, the game was changed.

As a young kid figuring out his love for the fiddle, Joe’s mom took him to a little diner in town where they played bluegrass when he was 13. Only knowing two fiddle tunes Joe was able to sit in with a band and got hired on the spot. After working with the band and practicing, Joe had his first gig at a lodge just two weeks later. Throughout the years growing up and having a big brother, Joe is grateful for all the games and sports that his brother would beat him at and rub it in. Having that constant challenge, it gave Joe the drive to be the best. Joe would also have to give credit to his grandpa for instilling the “if you’re going to do something, do it right the first time” trait. If you ever get the chance to know Joe, you will experience the “smart ass”, quick witted and one-liners side that he inherited from his beloved grandpa.

Holding the position of band leader for Tracy Lawrence for over 20 years is definitely a reflection of his hard worker and dedication. One of the most memorable moments during the past years was when they did an acoustic guitar pull with a few artists in Houston, TX. Charlie Daniels, one of the artists, asked Joe to play fiddle with him on all his songs. Of course, this would be a dream come true for many but for Joe, it became a full circle moment. Charlie and Joe, playing fiddle, stole the show with “Devil Went Down to Georgia”. Joe was proud to be able to call Charlie a friend and misses him every day.

Like most artists, Joe has a non-musician side of himself and would tell you that through all the miles he has traveled, Switzerland is probably the most beautiful scenery he has ever witnessed. Joe loves the outdoors and seeks every moment he can get to go bow hunting. A huge bucket list item was checked off when he chased elk through the mountains of Colorado even if he, as he called himself a flat lander, had a difficult time breathing up there. While Joe will climb for hunting, you will not see him climb stairs to buggee jump any time soon.

Rapid fire questions –

What is your favorite Holiday and why?  I love Christmas, always have. It puts everyone in a good mood, and it makes me nostalgic and think back when I was a kid. We didn’t have much growing up, but Mama always made Christmas special.

If you were not part of the music scene, what would you be doing?  I actually went to school to be a forest ranger/game warden. I have always loved the outdoors and watching wildlife.

What is your favorite superhero and why?  Would probably have to be Batman. I grew up with Adam West and the series. I like the movies too. Batman was usually cool and collective, always knew how to get out of a tough spot.

Do you have a hobby outside of music?  Archery. I love to shoot my bow. It’s been a passion for a long time.

What is your favorite snack food for the road?  PIZZA …. Guilty.

What your favorite kind of ice cream?  Mama used to make homemade strawberry ice cream that was awesome.

What is your favorite movie line?  “Watch your top knot!” from the movie Jeremiah Johnson

Announcements:

Record Label – MCM Label Group

Album – “This Side of The Grass”

Album is a collection of songs that Joe has written himself or with some of his closest friends. His favorite song of the album is titled Quit Diggin’ because of the good advice that is within it. Make sure to check out Joe’s newly released single, “Land That I Love” on all streaming platforms.

“Land That I Love” is one of most patriotic songs that I have heard in a long time. It captures some of the feelings and actions our soldiers go through for the land we live on.