Joe Burton, affectionately known as “Lil” Joe from Chicago, is the quintessential Blues instrumentalist in a class of his own.

Lil’ Joe’s career began in 1964 with the late, great Junior Wells.  Joe’s relationship with Junior continued for years but he also toured with other great acts such as, Bobby Womack, Joe Tex, Otis Clay and many others.  He has appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show, Midnight Special, Soul Train and a host of others.  Joe even toured with B.B. King for 10 years performing 340 plus shows a year.

Born: May 4, 1952
Repertoire Summary: Powerful trombone solos and energetic performances
Current Location: Atlanta, GA

More about Lil’ Joe Burton:
Joe is well known throughout Europe and the United States for his heart-wrenching solos and tasteful high-energy performances.  His uniquely versatile approach to traditional and contemporary Blues is legendary.  He effortlessly blends fat round tones of his trombone with various styles and formats of Roots Music. 

His recordings include: B.B. King’s Lucille Talks Back, Guess Who, Mississippi Seeds, L.A. Midnight, B.B. King & Bobby Bland for the First Time; Junior Wells’ Junior Wells Live at Buddy Guys Legends (which was nominated for a Grammy in 1997),  Junior Wells Live around the World and Mudcat’s The Mess is On and Get Your House in Order.

Photo ©Jimmy Williams