Biography
Singer/songwriter/guitarist Joe Rathburn is a lifetime/fulltime musician, haling from San Diego, California.
Since October of 2006 he has hosted a weekly songwriter showcase in San Diego called Joe Rathburn's Folkey Monkey. It has garnered a reputation for being one of the best regular acoustic shows in town.
Joe won 1st place, Best Traditional Folk Song category, in the 2004 Just Plain Folks Music Awards for his light hearted song, The Dad I Had. It was picked out of 140,000 entries.
He's been nominated 3 times in the San Diego Music Awards as a performer and for his 2 recordings: Little Suns, and Rockwells and Picassos.
In December of 2005 he released his third cd, Would You Please Welcome: Joe Rathburn, Live at Dark Thirty, a double disc set containing concert performances of 10 previously released Joe tunes, and 11 previously un-released songs.
Joe has gained recognition for his deft guitar work, emotive voice, as well as his fine song writing abilities and wry sense of humor.
He has represented Taylor Guitars at two Folk Alliance Conferences, the 2003 Winter NAMM Convention, and on the Taylor produced Expression System Pickup DVD.
He was included on the history making MP3 compilation CD put out by Music Match and songs.com: The Best of Independent American Music. At the time of it’s release it was the most songs ever commercially released on one CD (152) including other great artists as: Chuck Brodsky, Jack Williams, Dana Cooper, Janis Ian, Buddy Mondlock, and Tom Prasada-Rao.
He performs continuously and his vast stage experience includes: festivals, arenas, clubs, churches, and coffeehouses, headlining his own shows as well as opening shows for others. He has opened for Ellis Paul, Susan Werner, Dave Van Ronk and a list of others as diverse as Chuck Berry, The Guess Who, Ray Charles, and Kiss.
Joe's music can be placed in the genre called Positive Music. His tunes have purpose, and carry with them more than just changes and grooves and catchy melodies, and hooks for the sake of their cool factor. They speak to the heart and mind of the listener directly. They uplift the soul in an instantly tangible way, while remaining fun, interesting, and non-preachy.
Joe’s music can also be likened to the singer/songwriters of the 1960s and ‘70s: the Paul Simon, James Taylor, Cat Stevens variety, yet his has a quality all his own which, though paying homage, never copies.
Scroll to read reviews.
CD Baby Reviews for - "Rockwells and Picassos" Clever, passionate, enlightening, uplifting. In a nutshell ... that's life ... author: Joe S. Carlsbad, CA
This CD realy hits the mark. The lyrics are some of the most clever I've ever heard. You can hear your life in Joe Rathburn's musical stories. Amaizingly, Rathburn notices the universal, and delivers it to you as personal. Is it Joe, or is it you that he's singing about? The songs on this CD showcase Joe Rathburn's versatility. He has the passion of Jackson Brown, the stoy telling abilities of Elvis Costello, the playfullness of Ringo Star, and the easygoing down to earth every-dayness of life of Jimmy Buffet all rolled into one. The music is fabulous. And it's a special treat to get the lyrics of every song on this CD's insert. You'll want to listen to this CD over an over again before you become compelled to share it with the ones you love and care about most. If you like music, people and life ... you'll love this CD.
great voice and guitar, exellant expression of lyrics author: Bob Barckley
I have heard Joe Rathburn live and several of his CDs. The Rockwell’s and Picassos CD is special for me (partly because of the title, alone) but more because of the main song itself and the variety of moods expressed. These include an exquisite sense of humor, plus romance and sadness. All great music.
Klever! author: Kornflower
It's been many years, but worth the wait! author: Mike lowmon
It's been many years since I used to watch you at the Galley at the Marina Joe. You have inspired me in so many ways with your music and self. I am now working in Baghdad and I have shared your music with many of the troops here.I can Honestly say that Rockwells and Picasos is the first thing to put me in my happy place since I have been here. Your red head friend, Mike Lowmon
author: CD Baby
Another glimpse into the mind of an acoustic/ singer/ songwriter that could uplift, upset, or upgrade you depending on where you're standing at the time, cut from the same bolt as the classic singer/songwriter folk rockers of the 60s and 70s. A very cunning and lucid work of folk pop splendor.
Very nice! author: grandlaguna
Thanks for this wonderful music..from Germany. :O)
Buy this CD now, you will never regret it! author: Dave Sawyer - MusicJammers.Com
Joe does it again! His thoughtful, positive perspective comes across in such a variety of styles, one can't avoid being uplifted. A firm grasp of irony and the absurd is evident, not only in lyrics but musically as well - hear Way Of The World. The production is beautiful, diverse and wholly entertaining. Someone get this man in the mainstream! Keep 'em coming, Joe!
This is an important CD author: John Olin
This is Joe's triumph. Songs that make a difference and make you think. Joe's music may be "island music" but he does not resort to sex and drinking binges, rather he sings about real life and love. OK, I am bias, but get this CD and listen well, see how it might change the way you think about things. More new stuff Joe! I can say it all in a line form a song on the CD "When I awoke this mornig I had to say, hey, so far so good" This is the Steve Goodman or our times.
Outstanding!!! author: Tony Stewart
Outstanding! I love ALL of Joe Rathburn's CDs! If you can sit by and not be drawn in by the song "Way of the World", you must be numb. It doesn't take much to realize that Joe can really write inspiring music that makes you run through a gambit of notions, motions, and emotions (har-har), but that's the Way of the Joe!
Too good to be unknown. author: T. Harvey
This is an outstanding collections of songs - truly ranking among he best I've ever heard. Joe accomplishes so many things with his guitar and his voice he clearly ranks right up there with the best singer/songwriters of his generation. Paul Simon, James Taylor, Stephen Stills? They got nothing on Joe Rathburn.
Present once again is Joe Rathburn's trademark solid songwriting author: Jim Earp - Http://www.guitar9.com/rosewood.html
Present once again is Joe Rathburn's trademark solid songwriting, and his clean and articulate acoustic guitar work - but a welcome addition this time around are the stylistic stretches that go beyond the usual idiomatic singer-songwriter fare.
I think Rockwells & Picassos may be the independent CD of the year. author: Jim Hoehn
I think Rockwells & Picassos may be the independent CD of the year.
Joe Rathburn has hit the mark with his newest CD author: Dave Garcia - San Diego Troubadour Magazine
If the purpose of folk music is to provide the listener with something to think about while being entertained with good instrumental and vocal accompaniment, Joe Rathburn has hit the mark with his newest CD, Rockwells and Picassos.
Wonderful assortment of styles, instrumentation for a fine CD! author: Tom Sutphen
Wonderful assortment of musical styles, from folk to rock to reggae. I've only gotten all the way through twice, but this one's gonna stay in the car CD player for a while. Especially satisfying is the high quality production, variety of instrumentation, and catchy nature of the tunes - a must have!
CD Baby Reviews for - "Little Suns" Little Suns author: Kornflower
This is one CD I've been listening to for the last ten years or so (at the time of writing Jan 2008.) This one surely ties Joe's other CD's together, reminding me profoundly of the all-but-forgotten Mikey's Coffeehouse in Poway, where I would be a regular fixture at this place on an almost daily basis, listening to Joe play these old songs at least once a month. These clever, God-fearing lyrics are surely what everyone must hear and engrave in their brains permanently. (I don't think, I know.) Kornflower
A Must Have! author: Veronica Graciano
It's rare that you find an artist that creates such clever, inspiring lyrics as well as fantastic melody. The combination makes for an awesome CD. My Holiday shopping is going to be a breeze this year because this CD is such a great gift to give to anyone.
A jewel! author: Dave Blackburn
As producer of this CD I am obviously not impartial, but before we began this project Joe and his music were unknown to me. After hearing his immaculate demos I realized that this was one world-class songwriter and that we could make a really fine album together. This album possesses all the vibrancy and magic that the songs inherently contained at birth with some great performances by both Joe himself and the guest musicians. Now celebrating its 10th year! --- Dave Blackburn
Little Suns is great, uplifting music! author: ddbass
This CD is a mix of acoustic roots music (Searchin'), improvisational jazz (Dem Birdies), and pure sunshine (Sunshine through the rain). The songs tell great stories (Dear Dad) that inspire me to hope (Little Suns) and force me to think about my own role in the world (If I Don't Change My Way). This CD has so much to offer, it's no wonder it was on the regular rotation for years at work.
every song is great author: michael james moore
A real find.Some great songwriting and production.This cd is uplifting and has a cool vibe.But it!!
A nice surprise! author: Gary Bosley
I am so glad that while searching through the numerous artists on CD Baby I happened to stop and give a listen to Joe Rathburn's Little Suns. It is now one of my most played CDs. I enjoy every song but am especially fond of, "If I Don't Change My Way" and "I Don't Think I Know." Joe is an accomplished guitarist and his arrangements are very professional. I am looking forward to hearing more from Joe Rathburn. This CD will indeed be of your favorites too!
I'm sorry I waited so long to buy this CD, it's WONDERFUL! author: Dave Sawyer - MusicJammers.Com
Little Suns is a wonderful piece of work. From beginning to end, it has heart sustained by a talent for phrasing and detail. Joe exhibits his technical talents as a guitarist as deft support for his songwriting and singing. It's all about the song...no more than necessary, no less than just enough. Even in the liner notes, his ideas are well delivered without being preachy. Why isn't this on the Billboard charts??? Thanks Joe, and please make more!
I love this CD . . . author: Drew
I have played this CD at least a hundred times . . . and it still moves me. From the opening track's, "Hello there," to the final tracks farewell (Till There Was You--cover), this album wedges itself into my heart. Joe takes me on a spaceship ride beyond the earth, and on a long ride in the back of his dad's Oldsmobile on a fishing trip. We don't catch any fish, but there's chocolate enough to make the ride home a sweet one. Joe is up to more than coating our ears in candy, however. He is on an unabashed mission to save the world, one "homeless soul" at a time. In the album's title track, Little Suns, he draws on saints from all walks of life (from waitresses to Mother Teresa) to encourage us all to "shine light everywhere we go." The music is top notch, the vibe is positive, and it has a universal appeal. Go Joe!
Great tunes, well produced, looking forward to more! author: Tom Sutphen
Joe's song writing has matured over the years. His ear for arranging and producing is quite remarkable. Lyrics and melodies are catchy, and many with deep meaning (check out the bonus track he writes to his "Dear Dad"). "Sunshine Through the Rain" is a powerful lead in to an excellent album (whoops, CD). Well worth the investment of $15.
CD Baby Reviews for - "Would You Please Welcome... Joe Rathburn Live at Dark Thirty" ONE OF THE FEW CD'S I LISTEN TO... author: EDDIE CUNNINGHAM
GREAT WORK JOE! TOUCHING BALLADS, EXCELLENT VISUAL FURNITURE AND FINE GROOVES...YOU ARE A FOLKY MONKEY..YOU SONGS WILL STAND THE TEST OF TIME...ROCK ON!
Two thumbs way up. author: Veronica Graciano
I'm absolutely charmed by the music on this set.
Happy Music author: Diannesss
Seeing Joe live is really the biggest treat. His lyrics and great stories combined with his easy going attitude and great acoustic guitar sound are to me... unforgetable. This CD puts Joe with his band, and almost captures the essence of the Joe experience. This Set is a nice combination of songs from other CDs, and a few tracks that I hadn't found on other CDs. It's definately a CD to add to your collection when you need a little injection of easy going attitude.
Brings the Joe Experience to life in a warm setting. author: Steve Goldstein
I have been a fan and friend of Joe's for more years than either of us would care to admit, so I feel I am intimately acquainted with his music, which I love. However, when I listen to this double live set, I hear shadings I never heard before and I have a whole new perspective on his talents and songs. For novice or die-hard Joe fan, this CD is a must have for any serious music collection.
This is special and then some author: John Olin
As a fan of Joe's past work I am a bit bias. But the live CD is something special. From the opening song to the end it is a wonderful compelation of folk and perhaps a bit of pop. The guitar work is masterful and the percussion is incredible. Most of all the songs are the best of Joe. A bit of Guthrie, a bit of James Taylor, perhaps a bit of Loggins and Messina and a bit of what is only Joe. When you listen through it once go back to the first track and realize that we needed Joe somehow. This is the CD that I play whatever my mood in my kitchen when cooking and calm down. If the scale here was 10 I would give it an 11. I have introduced this CD to several friends and they were in CD Baby the next day to buy it. You will not be dissaponted. This is a creat CD by a true artist.
Live, love and laugh along with Joe (and a first class band) author: Michael Bourdet
I bought this album after hearing Joe Rathburn at a local bar. Leaving the 2 disc set in my car gave me several opportunities to become familiar with the music and I quickly became a Joe Rathburn fan. Joe's lyrics are whimsical, heart-felt poems set to catchy tunes and executed with delicious guitar licks. Sure, his vocals will never be confused with Kenny Loggins but they're as honest as the guy himself. Two thumbs up!!!!
Part of My "Team" author: Judith Guest
Saw Joe in the park one day (I took off work, was so depressed after losing my Dad, etc., etc.). His music began my lifting experience, and from that day on (about a year), this CD was a very integral part of my healing "team". I'm fine now and am passing on some healing by giving this CD for Christmas to another valued "team" member, as a way to say thanks:)
Incredible Stuff author: Bill Maine
I love this double CD. I've always enjoyed his songwriting and performances and this live CD captures Joe and the band at their best. Great versions of his classic songs and some incredible new songs as well. One of my favorite CDs, gets lots of playing time.
Super!! author: Tom Keller
Joe is great! We used to listen to him on the IB pier, this is my 3rd Joe Rathburn CD. Keep up with the great music.
Great mood music author: Jack Blackburn
I have been waiting to hear comments from a friend I sent a copy to, and she enjoyed it as well. Super and Thanks
If it were easy, everyone would do it. author: Taylor Harvey
Joe continues to bless his listeners with his humor, his spirituality and his incredible talent. Long one of the absolute best in the singer/songwriter genre, he just keeps moving the bar higher with this release. This recording of an intimate house concert may be the perfect way to capture his magic as he, with some very accomplished friends, weaves his tales of life and love the way very few can. Everone who owns an acoustic guitar should also own this CD.
Fabulous Live Performance author: John Olin
I have been a fan of Joe Rathburn for a few years now and have greatly awaited a live CD. Here Joe has outdone himself. With an incredible group of backing talents, Joe's songs come alive more than ever. While many of the songs are familiar, Joe includes new efforts that equal his past work. My only complaint is that it is not a three CD set. So many songs Joe does so well, and so little time.
High energy author: Erika Roller......folkdancer
There is always a place for folk music. Was about life and constantly moving......enjoyed it.
I've been enjoying the summer and taking many of the KPRI
Private Listen Concert cruises on San Diego Bay. Some of the talent
that I've seen has been amazing. You can see photos from them right here in my MySpace photo albums.
May I ask a small favor of you?
Recently I started writing for an Internet site called Examiner.com
about San Diego International Airport, one of my newer interests, and I
am trying to develop a loyal readership, showing that people actually
see my articles.
If you have a little spare time and it's not too much trouble, please
visit this link.
Help me to establish a following for my writing by subscribing to my
stories (it's free), and telling your friends about them. You can also
leave comments for each article. I also put up some cool links there
about San Diego. Thanks in advance for all your help, which is much
appreciated. It would mean a lot to me.
I hope that you are enjoying a great week. Do keep in touch.
IndieFest was a kick. You handled your "technical difficulty" with grace and lived up to the positive message that you sing about. Loved your show as always.
Same to you, but more of it. Top o the mornin to ye, I can't believe it's been a whole year since you sent this picture last year. Cripes.. Whew! Flies time when you are funning have, huh? The SoozOmeter
Joe, my girlfriend's father passed away 2 years ago and when you played "The Dad I Had" at Milano's, she cried a bit, and she cried a bit again when she heard it here, (so did I, a little, my, dad passed away in 82, seems like only yesterday, time don't "mess around", it just flies by....Such a great song, the 'buy" function doesn't work here, I tried, Ya gotta get me a copy, and as usual, I think your guitar playing borders on the supernatural!! Keep On Rockin', your fan, Rod
I just wanted to let you know that I thoroughly enjoyed your web show from Kulaks. I loved hearing the Katrina trilogy and Soul Radio...and so many other favorites of mine. You really know how to put on a great show.
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