Biography
On stage, Joe’s live set is a masterclass in tension and release. His technical wizardry and visceral delivery completely absorb audiences, channeling the adventurous, boundary-pushing spirit of John Martyn alongside the raw, expressive instrumental power of Jimi Hendrix—an explosive approach to the instrument that earned him the SMA Award for Best Guitarist. Joes undeniable live presence has been fully endorsed by Sofia Genders (End of the Road, Wasing, Eden), cementing his reputation as a festival-caliber artist.
Joe's uncompromising sound has seen him share stages and billings alongside major independent powerhouses like Will Varley and Beans on Toast. Being personally invited by 90s Brit-pop legends Dodgy to support them at the renowned Cheese & Grain, sparking an ongoing artistic friendship, and has performed by personal invitation at the prestigious Salisbury City Hall., cementing his reputation as one of the south coast's most compelling live acts.
True peer recognition comes from the revered, visionary songwriter Alex Roberts, who hailed Joe as a "magician of the guitar and a wizard of a songsmith." Writing songs that navigate the raw edges of beauty in loss and fierce devotion in love, Joe Burke creates a communal, high-fidelity experience that demands to be heard on the big stages. He continues to push the boundaries of what a solo artist can achieve, leaving the safe acoustic world behind in pursuit of something much heavier, deeper, and completely undeniable. that defy the limits of a single acoustic guitar.
Influenced by the adventurous spirit of John Martyn and the complexity of Jimi Hendrix, Joe’s performances are both technically dazzling and deeply human — an experience that has captivated audiences from Salisbury City Hall to The Cheese and Grain, where he supported Dodgy, who praised his music as “truly incredible.”
Respected guitarist Alex Roberts calls him “a magician,”
Press Quotes“Joe is an honest goodfella with a big heart and beautiful songs — you should listen to him before you're dead... a magician.”— Alex Roberts (Troubadour of Dorset)
“His guitar playing is exquisite, his hands floating over the fretboard with purpose and chilled abandon, while his vocals and lyrics take you on a journey of wistful fantasy. He is a true artist. As humble as he is talented.”— Sounds of Salisbury
“Truly incredible.”— Dodgy
TECHNICAL RIDER / STAGE SETUP
Performance Type: Solo Alternative Acoustic (Standing setup)
The Rig: Dual-Amp Output Mode (High-fidelity stereo split using heavy distortions, delays, and custom performance programming).
Vocal Setup: Advanced performance vocal processing.
Tech Requirement: Full technical spec sheet, stage plot, and input list available upon request.
