Joe Bargar

Anyone who hears keyboardist and singer Joe Bargar, with his Soul Providers band, knows that he is the closest thing vocally to Otis Redding we’re ever likely to hear in these parts. He uses his extraordinary voice to put an unexpected twist on standard swing tunes with his group The Soul Providers. They treat audiences to a rousing set of authentic Rhythm and Blues that can’t be beat. It’s an all-star rhythm and blues lineup that includes gifted sidemen who’ve backed everyone from James Cotton to Dr. John.

Joe Bargar is a veteran of the New England music scene. Having grown up in Providence, RI, Joe had the opportunity to appear with such legendary acts as Roomful Of Blues, Scott Hamilton, Duke Robillard, James Montgomery, and The Fabulous Thunderbirds. Living in New York City for most of the 70's and 80's, Joe played with performers such as Sly &The Family Stone, Robbie Robertson, blues greats Otis Rush, Mississippi Fred McDowell, Son Seals, and John Lee Hooker; and soul masters Percy Sledge, Clarence Carter, and Solomon Burke. He can also be heard on several recordings, including those by Diana Ross and "Late Show" bandleader Paul Shaeffer.

~ Jay Miller "The Patriot Ledger"