Joe English, American drummer and songwriter

Born on February 7, 1949, Joe English is a distinguished American musician, vocalist, and songwriter, widely recognized for his significant contributions as a drummer during the vibrant 1970s music scene. His rhythmic prowess propelled two notable bands of the era: Paul McCartney's globally renowned supergroup, Wings, and the acclaimed jazz fusion ensemble, Sea Level. Beyond these prominent roles, English's extensive career also saw him lend his drumming talents to various other projects, cementing his reputation as a versatile and in-demand percussionist.

His Tenure with Paul McCartney's Wings

Joe English's arrival in Paul McCartney's Wings in 1975 marked a pivotal moment for both the drummer and the band. Joining the highly successful post-Beatles outfit, English succeeded Geoff Britton on drums, quickly becoming an indispensable part of Wings' dynamic sound. His energetic and precise drumming style provided a robust foundation for the band's chart-topping hits and extensive touring schedule during what is often considered their most prolific period.

During his tenure with Wings, Joe English contributed to several of their most iconic recordings. He played on two critically and commercially successful studio albums:

• Venus and Mars (1975): This album, recorded primarily in New Orleans and Los Angeles, showcased English's adaptable drumming on tracks like the chart-topping "Listen to What the Man Said" and the fan-favorite "Rock Show."
• Wings at the Speed of Sound (1976): Featuring hit singles such as "Silly Love Songs" and "Let 'Em In," this album further solidified English's rhythmic impact on the band's pop-rock sound.

Furthermore, English was the powerful rhythmic engine behind the monumental 1976 "Wings Over America" tour. This highly acclaimed and commercially successful concert series spanned the United States and Canada, culminating in the release of the triple live album, Wings Over America (1976), which stands as a testament to his vibrant live performance capabilities. His drumming on tracks like "Band on the Run" and "Live and Let Die" during these shows underscored his integral role in the band's live presentation. Joe English departed from Wings in 1977, seeking new musical directions.

The Jazz Fusion Era with Sea Level

Following his departure from Wings, Joe English quickly transitioned into a different musical landscape, joining the jazz fusion band Sea Level in 1977. Formed in 1976 as an offshoot of the legendary Allman Brothers Band, Sea Level featured Chuck Leavell (keyboards), Lamar Williams (bass), and Jaimoe (drums). English joined the band, initially sharing drumming duties with Jaimoe and later becoming their primary drummer, which allowed him to explore more intricate and improvisational rhythms characteristic of the jazz fusion genre.

With Sea Level, English showcased his versatility, moving beyond the rock and pop frameworks of Wings into a more complex and fluid musical environment. His drumming on albums such as Cats on the Coast (1977) and On the Edge (1978) demonstrated his ability to navigate sophisticated time signatures and interplay with virtuoso instrumentalists. This period highlighted his broad musical range and his capacity to excel across diverse genres.

Beyond the 1970s: Other Projects and Later Career

While his roles in Wings and Sea Level define his most prominent period, Joe English's musical journey extends further. Prior to joining Wings, he also performed with the Buddy Miles Express, a testament to his early rock and R&B influences. After his tenure with Sea Level, he briefly joined the Marshall Tucker Band in the early 1980s, further expanding his repertoire within the Southern rock genre.

In a significant shift in the mid-1980s, Joe English turned his focus towards Christian music and ministry. He founded the Joe English Band, releasing several Christian rock albums, and subsequently established the New Life Fellowship, a non-denominational church in Fayetteville, North Carolina. This period reflected a profound personal transformation, where his musical talents became dedicated to spiritual expression and community leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions about Joe English

When was Joe English born?

Joe English was born on February 7, 1949.

What instruments does Joe English play?

Joe English is primarily known as a drummer, though he is also recognized as a musician, vocalist, and songwriter.

What notable bands did Joe English play drums for in the 1970s?

In the 1970s, Joe English famously played drums for Paul McCartney's Wings and the jazz fusion band Sea Level.

Which Wings albums did Joe English appear on?

Joe English played drums on Wings' studio albums Venus and Mars (1975) and Wings at the Speed of Sound (1976), as well as the live album Wings Over America (1976).

What did Joe English do after his mainstream music career?

After his prominent roles in rock and jazz fusion, Joe English transitioned into Christian music, forming the Joe English Band and later founding the New Life Fellowship church.