Joe Francis

b. New Jersey, USA. Francis began singing professionally in 1982 while still a student, working in fringe theatre and nightclubs. He also sang on cruise liners, including the QE2. In 1983 he was personally recommended by John Bunch for the featured vocalist spot with the New Glenn Miller Orchestra. He toured extensively with the band for three years, then went out as a single. He also studied music and has worked with coaches Vera Mazel and Maria Farmworth. Since 1986 Francis has continued with solo work apart from a brief spell as solo singer with the New Pied Pipers. He customarily works with writer-producer Ken Barnes and arranger Pete Moore. In the mid-90s Francis sang for the UK-based Sinatra Music Society and also performed at Buckingham Palace in a benefit concert for The Not Forgotten Association. Singing in the Frank Sinatra tradition, and working with a repertoire culled from the Great American Song Book, Francis has established a good reputation as a sensitive interpreter of popular music.