Suggested:
Joe Raphael is an artist who refuses to be boxed in. Originally from Vermont and now based in New York City, Joe has been making music since he was 10 years old, first experimenting with songwriting on the piano.
Despite years of musical exploration, he only officially launched his solo career as an independent artist a few years ago. His debut album, Whatever I Feel Like, released in early 2024, is a statement of artistic freedom— one that embodies creativity, boldness, and an unfiltered approach to music.
For Joe, music has never been about fitting into a single category. Instead, it’s about capturing a feeling, an instinct, and translating it into sound. Whatever I Feel Like isn’t just an album title—it’s a philosophy.
Rejecting Labels: A Sound That Speaks for Itself
When asked to describe his musical style, Joe admits that words often fall short. Rather than conforming to one niche or genre, he embraces versatility. “It’s not the best move from a branding perspective,” he acknowledges, “but I have to be true to myself.” His approach mirrors the ever-evolving nature of music in the internet age—where genre boundaries are increasingly blurred, and artists have the freedom to experiment.
His debut album serves as an open invitation for listeners to experience his range without expectations. By deliberately rejecting creative restrictions, Joe has granted himself the artistic freedom to move in any direction he chooses—a move that keeps both himself and his audience on their toes.
A Vision Beyond Sound: The Power of Visual Storytelling
While music is his primary language, Joe understands the importance of visual storytelling. Admittedly, he never considered himself a visual artist, but he has found fulfillment in collaborating with those who are. His music videos, including New Money and Whatever I Feel Like, bring his songs to life in ways he never expected.
For Joe, the challenge of translating his music into a visual format has been both frustrating and rewarding. “Somebody needs to give me a bigger budget because I have a lot of ideas for visuals,” he jokes. But despite financial constraints, his ability to perform comfortably on camera has allowed his music to resonate even deeper.
Growth, Collaboration, and What’s Next
Joe’s journey has been one of constant evolution. Over the past few years, his music has grown bigger, bolder, and more refined, reflecting a level of confidence that comes with experience. He describes the thrill of being able to finally translate the songs in his head into fully realized productions.
While his focus has been on his solo work, Joe is eager to collaborate with more artists and producers in the future. He sees music as a space for connection—one where he doesn’t always need to be in the spotlight. He also teases a new song coming out in March, a track that blends multiple genres while maintaining simplicity—yet another testament to his refusal to conform.
Live performances, though a significant part of his past, have taken a backseat for now. As an independent artist juggling multiple roles, Joe made the conscious decision to prioritize recording over performing. “When I do something, I want to do it correctly,” he explains. While he isn’t in a rush to get back on stage, it’s clear that when he does, it will be on his own terms.
A Message to Artists and Dreamers
For Joe, music is about more than just the sound—it’s about integrity, instinct, and breaking the rules when necessary. His advice to aspiring artists? “Follow your joy and your instincts. Break whatever rules you need to in order to manifest your vision. Other people may turn on you, but your art will always have your back.”
Joe Raphael is an artist committed to creating music on his own terms. With his fearless approach to genre, his dedication to artistic honesty, and his ever-expanding vision, one thing is certain—whatever he feels like doing next, we’ll all be listening.
