Joe Potenza is a versatile bass guitarist working in the Rhode Island / Southern New England area. His musicianship, passion and professionalism spring from years of varied musical experience.

In his own words:

“A lifelong Rhode Islander, I grew up in a musical family where my mother insisted that there always should be a piano in the house (for performances and family shows and just because…) and my father supported inclinations to play by providing us with good instruments and encouragement. This meant that when one of my guitar playing brothers left a bass guitar around and I started amusing myself with it, (a) I could tune it to the piano, play along with records and not be told to be quiet and (b) receive as a Christmas gift a real professional – grade instrument. My family knew that I was a bass player before I knew it!

“I listened and learned, learned to listen, listened some more, saw the Beatles on TV and Jimi Hendrix in person, discovered that girls hung around the band practice space, realized that there was something else going on when John Coltrane, the Allman Brothers, Miles Davis and Cannonball Adderley improvised…all the while being drawn to the foundation and pulse of the music. The natural role of bassist as collaborator drew me in.

“Later listening and performing experiences moved me toward joining the ranks of musicians dedicated to staking a claim for a legitimate role for the bass guitar in jazz music. I learned what I know and do mostly on the bandstand under the guidance of numerous players and singers who alternately kicked my ass, steadied my hand and tweaked my ears. I’m still learning and listening, striving to develop a personal voice on the instrument, beyond category. I have an irreverent respect for ‘the jazz tradition’. I still look forward to every gig and to finding new ways to fit my voice into diverse musical settings.”