Talent Site Features Talented Singer

As a young child, Joseph King Jr. was always singing. While most children were outside playing sports, he was inside exercising his voice. From a young age, the New Orleans, Louisiana native knew he was talented and his passion for music would only grow.

Once Joseph realized his calling was to be a musician, he quickly began his search for bands that he could lead. In 1977 he joined De'Sire, a four-man show group. Offering his vocals for lead and background, Joseph performed covers of top hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s until 1985. During this time period he was also able to perform a "Temptaions" review and release his first single recording, "I Don't Care," and flip side recording "Feed on the Groove."

Never skipping a beat from his calling, Joseph joined Shades of Praise, New Orleans interracial gospel choir. The choir promotes racial harmony and respect for all religious diversities. Joseph and the choir have performed in numerous New Orleans settings, including The Gospel Tent at Jazz Fest, The French Quarter Festival and The Martin Luther King Birthday Celebration in Armstrong Park.

While in the choir, Joseph has given live performances on TV and was featured in a commercial for the "Spirit of Louisiana." The choir also had the opportunity to tour Ireland giving nine concerts in 12 days. Shades of Praise have released three full length CDs entitled, "There's a Blessing," "God is Sill Doing Great Things," and "Celebrate the Child" all of which Joseph is a featured soloist on.

Today, as a retired Postal worker Joseph has dedicated his life to music, performing and recently acting. He is the owner of Black Cat Productions, performing at private functions and weddings. Perhaps Joseph's most notable accomplishment is his role in Brad Pitt's, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button." He is featured in the 1963 funeral scene as a member of the church choir.

Though gospel music is not considered to be one of the leading musical genres, it has left its footprint in music history. Its origin is not quite clear, but one thing is for certain, it has been an inviting music source for all. Like Joe King Jr. many before him have sung their praise in the form of gospel. According to the NPR, the most famous gospel singer was Mahalia Jackson. Mahalia's voice was powerful and energetic and she has been recognized as one of gospel music's pioneers. She may have been one of the reasons Joe has picked this genre over all of the others. With Joe's continuing help, gospel music can grow and compete with its genre peers.