AI
Saturday, June 22, 2002 5:50:14 PM
Joe Diffie
How do you follow a Greatest Hits album and nine No. 1 hits? If you're Joe Diffie, you simply record ten more potential chart toppers.
Diffie has earned a sterling reputation as a singer's singer, a master song craftsman who can deliver great-country lyrics. One of the most liked and respected figures in the country music industry, he has repeatedly demonstrated his prowess on the charts as one of the most consistent hit makers of the '90's. Three Gold albums, two Platinum and one Double Platinum plaque hang on his wall.
They'll have to make room for another. A Night To Remember is arguably the finest collection of songs he has ever released.
"I wanted to record an entire album of lyrics that had messages," says Diffie. "Every song had to have something -to say. I think for a while now Country music has been afraid to play a song with any substance to it. What I'm trying to do there is present some songs that I feel have some depth."
A Night To Remember finds Joe Diffie scat singing merrily along with the guitar on the swinging "My Heart's In Over My Head" and letting his big tenor soar majestically on "Not In This Lifetime." He hits an emotional bullseye with the troubled lyrics of "Are We Even Yet" and marries a dance floor groove to a heartache lyric on "You Can't Go Home." "The Quitting' Kind" and "It's Always Somethin'" also combine insightful words with toe tapping rhythms. The bittersweet, poignant "A Night To Remember" seems tailored for his spectacular range. And "Better Off Gone" is as finely nuanced a vocal performance as he has ever recorded.
Two highlights of the album are his handling of the stone-country honky-tonk weeper "Don't Our Love Look Natural" and his pull-out-the-stops emotional reading of "I'm The Only Thing I'll Hold Against You." Both songs have special meaning for Diffie. The-former was originally recorded by the late Keith Whitley, for whom Diffie sang song demos years ago. The latter is a song that Diffie cowrote which- became Conway Twitty's final-charted single.
A Night To Remember contains four of Diffie's compositions. His spectacular voice frequently overshadows the fact that he is a hit writer. But it was as a songwriter and demo singer that Joe Diffie originally rose to prominence in Nashville.
"I was feeling a bit of staleness, both in my career and my everyday life," he reports. "I felt like it was time to make some kind of move. People thought I wouldn't stick with running my own business. But it's been so good for me; man, I enjoy it; I'm at the office every day. It's been so refreshing and has helped me in so many-ways. I feel like I've got my finger on my own pulse."
Diffie's business sense is not all that drives him. Since 1992 he has spearheaded the annual First Steps concert and golf tournament which benefits disabled children. (Diffie's son Tyler was born with Down Syndrome in 1989). His efforts have raised more than $500,000 for First Steps and Joe says he will continue to do charity work as long as he lives.
In recognition of his contributions, the Country Radio Broadcasters presented Diffie with its Humanitarian Award during the 1997 Country Radio Seminar convention. It is, he says, the highest honor he has aver received.
Another incredible honor -was bestowed upon Joe Diffie when he won his first Grammy in 1999 for his performance on `Same Old Train", a Marty Stuart song from Sony's Tribute To Tradition album.
But even with awards and accolades surrounding him, Joe Diffie was in the midst of change and evolution. Around the time he formed Third Rock Entertainment he also quit smoking and found new power in his vocal performances as a result The former high school athlete is now working out again every day and preparing for a year long tour schedule with more energy than ever before.
A Night To Remember shows another growth stage for Joe and confirms he has no intention of resting on his laurels. He is constantly striving for improvement, challenges and innovation in his music.
"With A Night To Remember I'm trying to do something unique and on this album I wanted a completely new feeling. Don Cook, Lonnie Wilson and I adapted different instrumentation to compliment the vocals which strengthened the presentation. And the songs speak for themselves."
And the music on Joe Diffie's masterpiece A Night To Remember speaks for an artist comfortable with himself at the peak of his artistry.
The former Oklahoma iron foundry worker moved to Music City in 1986. His bluegrass and country roots ran deep; and his "quick study" abilities rapidly attracted attention in the songwriting and publishing community. In between shifts at the Gibson Guitar factory warehouse, Diffie sang "I've Cried My Last Tear For You" (later a hit for Ricky Van Shelton), "Born Country" (likewise, Alabama), "You Don't Count The Cost" (Billy Dean) and dozens of other tunes.
His own compositions were recorded by Charley Pride, Hank Thompson, The Forrester Sisters, Tracy Lawrence, Doug Stone and Clinton Gregory, among others. Diffie's cowritten "There Goes-My Heart Again," which became a chart-topper for Holly Dunn in 1989. He sang harmony vocals with the then -unknown Tim McGraw at yet another demo session. The tape earned Tim his recording contract and Diffie penned "Memory Lane" as the future star's second single.
Joe Diffie landed his -own contract when Epic Records signed him in 1990. He immediately rewarded the company's faith in him by taking five of his first six singles straight to No. 1. Diffie cowrote two of those smashes, "'If You Want Me To" and "New Way To Light Up An Old Flame." The other four "Home," "If The Devil Danced (In Empty Pockets)," "Is It Cold In Here" and "Ships That Don't Come In" -- remain among the most memorable country performances of 1990-91.
He finished his debut year as a recording artist by being named CashBox magazine's Male Vocalist of the Year and Billboard magazine's Top Singles Artist of the Year. His first two albums, A Thousand Winding Roads and Regular Joe, were both certified Gold Records. -His 1992 duet with Mary Chapin Carpenter, "Not Too Much To Ask," was nominated for a Grammy and he picked up a CMA Award for his work with George Jones on "I Don't Need Your Rocking Chair."
In 1993 Diffie began to reveal the "fun" side of his recording personality with the Platinum CD Honky Tonk Attitude and continued his successful songwriting streak by penning the title cut. That same year Joe was offered one of country music's highest accolades, cast membership in the Grand Ole Opry. Two years later he was starring in his own TNN television special.
Diffie was made a national commercial star in 1996 when the Ford Motor -Company selected "Pick Up Man" as a national jingle. That same year, Joe provided "She Ain't Comin' Back" to the soundtrack of the blockbuster hit movie Twister and made his acting debut opposite Johnny Cash-in a TV production.
By 1997 Joe Diffie's horizons seemed limitless. He formed his own show business company Third-Rock Entertainment.
Previous Bio Information Follows:
Most of Joe Diffie's milestones are measured in millions. In eight years, his songs have been played on radio an amazing 25 million times. He's sold over five million records, and performed live to millions of fans. With 14 Top 10 songs to draw from, the newly released Joe Diffie Greatest Hits is the ultimate career capstone, and-much more than a collection of great music. It's another strike in the seemingly endless vein of precious metal that's become Joe's stock in trade.
Joe Diffie Greatest Hits is a 12-song testament-written in platinum and solid gold-to a man who has established his, place as one of the definitive country artists of this decade. And even though this regular Joe is shy to sing his own praises, few would argue that Joe Diffie is indeed one of country music's all-time great vocalists.
From the soul-deep wisdom and heart-rending emotion of his classic ballad, "Ships That Don't Come In," to the ingenious wit of his signature smash, "Third Rock From the Sun," and the three new hits-to-be that the album comprises, Joe sets the standard for a new generation of country artists and fans. And the nine No. 1 songs he's left in his trail underscore his deep and enduring connection with the masses.
"I can't do a song that isn't honest and genuine," Joe explains. "Before I sing anything, -it --has to make a real-life connection with me. And then people can see pieces of their own lives in there. I'm a country boy from Oklahoma, and what touches me are the same things that touch a lot of folks."
Joe has made a career of seeing magic in much of what the world would call mundane. His 1995 chart-topper, "Bigger Than the Beatles," is a perfect case-in-point. The song tells the story of a couple who lead lives that most people think of as completely "ordinary." Yet in each other's eyes, their life and love couldn't be more special and extraordinary.
And the same could be said of Joe's Greatest Hits. The effect of 12 back-to-back Diffie masterpieces is staggering-and leaves no, doubt that he is not only a terrific singer. Joe Diffie is a stylist and interpreter of singular-even stunning-range and diversity.
Looking for humor? "Pickup Man" is a side-splitting saga of the timeless love affair between a man and his truck. True and tender love? "So Help Me Girl" is your ticket. How about 100-proof-no-chaser country? "Honky Tonk Attitude" and "Prop Me Up Beside the Jukebox (If I Die)" are as straight-up as it gets. Or perhaps a modern-day parable. "Ships That Don't Come In" resounds with hardwon, life-changing insight and revelation.
"John Deere Green" takes a rocking country look at the light-hearted side of small-town life, while Joe's debut single, "Home," earned him a place in posterity - and the record books - in 1990, when it shot to out of the, box to the top of the charts, stirring memories and tugging heartstrings all across America.
But that was then. And as great as it was-and remains-the "now" gets even better. With all-star producer Don Cook at the helm-revered for his multimillion selling work with Brooks & Dunn, and a host of country superstars-the three new songs Joe cut for Greatest Hits evidence an artist incapable of sitting still creatively, and determined to stretch himself beyond the boundaries of established perceptions and expectations.
"It's no coincidence that Don has been behind so- many hit records," says Joe. "He's got a feel for great songs, and he is a master at getting the best out of his musicians. We'd never worked together before. The newness of the relationship shook things up in a -really positive way. And along with Lonnie Wilson, who co-produced, I think we found a pocket that took us to a place that is consistent with what's gone before, but at the same time is fresh and a little different."
"Texas Size Heartache" lays country fiddles and guitars atop a popping, infectious groove, as it paints a picture of a let-down as big as the Lone Star State itself. In "Hurt Me All the Time" a delighted lover dispels rumors of his partner's unfaithfulness. And "Poor Me" is a classic, late-night roadhouse lament worthy of legends with names like Haggard and Jones. As Joe swaggers into the million-dollar hook ("Poor me/Poor me/Pour me another"), both his reverence for his mentors and his own worthiness to stand in their hallowed company are obvious.
Joe was raised in a musical home where extended-family jam sessions were a normal event. He made his public debut at age four, singing "You Are My Sunshine," accompanied by his aunt's country band. Stints in a "four-song, highschool garage band" segued -into -a gospel quartet and a bluegrass group in Joe's early 20s as he continued to expand his horizons. Seriously bitten with the music bug, it wasn't long before Joe lit out for Music City and a stab at the big time. A job at Gibson Guitar's Nashville plant paid the bills while Joe shopped his songs on Music Row. The job cemented a relationship with the legendary company that continues to this day through endorsements and customized guitars.
When Holly Dunn had a major hit in 1989 with "There Goes My Heart Again," co-written by Joe, the value of his stock increased considerably. By that time he'd also become a sought-after demo singer whose voice was winding up on the desks of producers, artists and label executives all over town. As the '80s ended, Joe graduated to a record deal of his own and within a year had laid claim to a permanent stake atop the country charts.
Throughout the '90s, Joe's fevered chart activity has been accompanied by equally fervent charitable and humanitarian -work. Himself -the, parent of a Down Syndrome child, Joe has ;worked tirelessly on behalf -of. Nashville's. First Steps, an organization dedicated to loving, teaching and nurturing physically and mentally handicapped children. Sponsoring the star-studded, yearly "Country Steps in for First Steps" concert, and the annual "Joe Diffie Charity Golf Classic," he's raised more than a half-million dollars for the group, with this year's concert proceeds of $80,000 doubling 1997 and setting an all-time record. Joe was also selected this year by the Nashville Council of Community Services as its first "Honorary Unsung Hero" for -his extensive charity work, as well as the Country Radio Broadcasters' Artist Humanitarian Award in 1997.
Joe Diffie is a man who has received a lot from country fans and the industry itself. And he's never hesitated to give back generously in return.
Joe's outlook on what he does is much like his songs-truthful and to the point. "Just making great music is my only goal," he says. "if I take care of the music, the music will take care of me."
But it's Joe's thoughts on the legacy he leaves behind him that reveal volumes about both his music and the heart of the man behind it. "I hope I'd always be known as a great singer, but that's really secondary," he concludes. "If people could say, 'He was a good friend ... a nice -guy ... someone you could trust,' I'd be really satisfied. Strip everything else away, and those are the things that matter the most."
JOE DIFFIE GREATEST HITS THE SONGS
1 "Third Rock From The Sun" #1
Third Rock From The Sun
2 "John Deere Green" #5
Honky Tonk Attitude
3 "Texas Size Heartache" New Single
Joe Diffie, Greatest Hits
4 "Ships That Don't Come In" #1
Regular Joe
5 "Pickup Man" 4 Weeks at #1 in Billboard
Third Rock From The Sun
6 "So Help Me Girl" #1
Third Rock From The Sun
7 "Poor Me" New Unreleased Track
Joe Diffie, Greatest Hits
8 "Honky Tonk Attitude" #5
Honky Tonk Attitude
9 "Home" First Single of Joe's Career #1
A Thousand Winding Roads
10 "Prop Me Up Beside The Jukebox (If I Die)" #2
Honky Tonk Attitude
11 "Bigger Than The Beatles" 2 Weeks #1 in Billboard
Life's So Funny
12 "Hurt Me All The Time" New Unreleased Track
Joe Diffie, Greatest Hits
Previous bio information follows:
Just last year, Joe was somewhere in orbit high on the country charts, savoring the widely successful ride of Third Rock From the Sun. His light-hearted, live-wire fourth album landed the amiable Oklahoman firmly into the upper echelon of Nashville stars, and is soaring now toward double-platinum status. Not exactly the easiest act in the world to follow. But, with a shift of imagery from interplanetary to interpersonal: Joe has done it masterfully with his latest release for Epic Records, Life’s So Funny.
The vivid and versatile work taps the trademark playfulness of his honky tonkin’ past and his touch for heartfelt ballads--traits that have marked the success of past albums. Yet Life’s So Funny also charts new territory for the singer. It sets a more contemporary and contemplative country tone, thoughtfully exploring the joys, sorrows and ambiguities of life and love.
"To quote and old saying, you don’t want to get off the horse you rode in on, but you don’t want to travel over the same trail, either," he says with a chuckle. "It’s always a little bit or a risk when you go out there a little bit and test the waters. But I just really wanted to try to take the next step."
Joe has notched nine No. 1 hits since his debut since 1990.
Joe received a Gold record for 1992’s Regular Joe 1993’s Honky Tonk Attitude and Third Rock From The Sun each went platinum (one million copies sold).
Joe won a Country Music Association award for the George Jones collaboration I Don’t Need Your Rocking Chair and was nominated for a Grammy for his collaboration with Mary Chapin Carpenter.
Joe will announce nominees for the American Academy of Country Music Awards show, set for May, and will as perform on that highly rated program as well.
Besides country music, Joe’s passions include NASCAR racing and playing golf; last year his annual charity golf tournament raised $40,000 to benefit First Steps, a school for mentally and physically challenged children.
How do you follow a Greatest Hits album and nine No. 1 hits? If you're Joe Diffie, you simply record ten more potential chart toppers.
Diffie has earned a sterling reputation as a singer's singer, a master song craftsman who can deliver great-country lyrics. One of the most liked and respected figures in the country music industry, he has repeatedly demonstrated his prowess on the charts as one of the most consistent hit makers of the '90's. Three Gold albums, two Platinum and one Double Platinum plaque hang on his wall.
They'll have to make room for another. A Night To Remember is arguably the finest collection of songs he has ever released.
"I wanted to record an entire album of lyrics that had messages," says Diffie. "Every song had to have something -to say. I think for a while now Country music has been afraid to play a song with any substance to it. What I'm trying to do there is present some songs that I feel have some depth."
A Night To Remember finds Joe Diffie scat singing merrily along with the guitar on the swinging "My Heart's In Over My Head" and letting his big tenor soar majestically on "Not In This Lifetime." He hits an emotional bullseye with the troubled lyrics of "Are We Even Yet" and marries a dance floor groove to a heartache lyric on "You Can't Go Home." "The Quitting' Kind" and "It's Always Somethin'" also combine insightful words with toe tapping rhythms. The bittersweet, poignant "A Night To Remember" seems tailored for his spectacular range. And "Better Off Gone" is as finely nuanced a vocal performance as he has ever recorded.
Two highlights of the album are his handling of the stone-country honky-tonk weeper "Don't Our Love Look Natural" and his pull-out-the-stops emotional reading of "I'm The Only Thing I'll Hold Against You." Both songs have special meaning for Diffie. The-former was originally recorded by the late Keith Whitley, for whom Diffie sang song demos years ago. The latter is a song that Diffie cowrote which- became Conway Twitty's final-charted single.
A Night To Remember contains four of Diffie's compositions. His spectacular voice frequently overshadows the fact that he is a hit writer. But it was as a songwriter and demo singer that Joe Diffie originally rose to prominence in Nashville.
"I was feeling a bit of staleness, both in my career and my everyday life," he reports. "I felt like it was time to make some kind of move. People thought I wouldn't stick with running my own business. But it's been so good for me; man, I enjoy it; I'm at the office every day. It's been so refreshing and has helped me in so many-ways. I feel like I've got my finger on my own pulse."
Diffie's business sense is not all that drives him. Since 1992 he has spearheaded the annual First Steps concert and golf tournament which benefits disabled children. (Diffie's son Tyler was born with Down Syndrome in 1989). His efforts have raised more than $500,000 for First Steps and Joe says he will continue to do charity work as long as he lives.
In recognition of his contributions, the Country Radio Broadcasters presented Diffie with its Humanitarian Award during the 1997 Country Radio Seminar convention. It is, he says, the highest honor he has aver received.
Another incredible honor -was bestowed upon Joe Diffie when he won his first Grammy in 1999 for his performance on `Same Old Train", a Marty Stuart song from Sony's Tribute To Tradition album.
But even with awards and accolades surrounding him, Joe Diffie was in the midst of change and evolution. Around the time he formed Third Rock Entertainment he also quit smoking and found new power in his vocal performances as a result The former high school athlete is now working out again every day and preparing for a year long tour schedule with more energy than ever before.
A Night To Remember shows another growth stage for Joe and confirms he has no intention of resting on his laurels. He is constantly striving for improvement, challenges and innovation in his music.
"With A Night To Remember I'm trying to do something unique and on this album I wanted a completely new feeling. Don Cook, Lonnie Wilson and I adapted different instrumentation to compliment the vocals which strengthened the presentation. And the songs speak for themselves."
And the music on Joe Diffie's masterpiece A Night To Remember speaks for an artist comfortable with himself at the peak of his artistry.
The former Oklahoma iron foundry worker moved to Music City in 1986. His bluegrass and country roots ran deep; and his "quick study" abilities rapidly attracted attention in the songwriting and publishing community. In between shifts at the Gibson Guitar factory warehouse, Diffie sang "I've Cried My Last Tear For You" (later a hit for Ricky Van Shelton), "Born Country" (likewise, Alabama), "You Don't Count The Cost" (Billy Dean) and dozens of other tunes.
His own compositions were recorded by Charley Pride, Hank Thompson, The Forrester Sisters, Tracy Lawrence, Doug Stone and Clinton Gregory, among others. Diffie's cowritten "There Goes-My Heart Again," which became a chart-topper for Holly Dunn in 1989. He sang harmony vocals with the then -unknown Tim McGraw at yet another demo session. The tape earned Tim his recording contract and Diffie penned "Memory Lane" as the future star's second single.
Joe Diffie landed his -own contract when Epic Records signed him in 1990. He immediately rewarded the company's faith in him by taking five of his first six singles straight to No. 1. Diffie cowrote two of those smashes, "'If You Want Me To" and "New Way To Light Up An Old Flame." The other four "Home," "If The Devil Danced (In Empty Pockets)," "Is It Cold In Here" and "Ships That Don't Come In" -- remain among the most memorable country performances of 1990-91.
He finished his debut year as a recording artist by being named CashBox magazine's Male Vocalist of the Year and Billboard magazine's Top Singles Artist of the Year. His first two albums, A Thousand Winding Roads and Regular Joe, were both certified Gold Records. -His 1992 duet with Mary Chapin Carpenter, "Not Too Much To Ask," was nominated for a Grammy and he picked up a CMA Award for his work with George Jones on "I Don't Need Your Rocking Chair."
In 1993 Diffie began to reveal the "fun" side of his recording personality with the Platinum CD Honky Tonk Attitude and continued his successful songwriting streak by penning the title cut. That same year Joe was offered one of country music's highest accolades, cast membership in the Grand Ole Opry. Two years later he was starring in his own TNN television special.
Diffie was made a national commercial star in 1996 when the Ford Motor -Company selected "Pick Up Man" as a national jingle. That same year, Joe provided "She Ain't Comin' Back" to the soundtrack of the blockbuster hit movie Twister and made his acting debut opposite Johnny Cash-in a TV production.
By 1997 Joe Diffie's horizons seemed limitless. He formed his own show business company Third-Rock Entertainment.
Previous Bio Information Follows:
Most of Joe Diffie's milestones are measured in millions. In eight years, his songs have been played on radio an amazing 25 million times. He's sold over five million records, and performed live to millions of fans. With 14 Top 10 songs to draw from, the newly released Joe Diffie Greatest Hits is the ultimate career capstone, and-much more than a collection of great music. It's another strike in the seemingly endless vein of precious metal that's become Joe's stock in trade.
Joe Diffie Greatest Hits is a 12-song testament-written in platinum and solid gold-to a man who has established his, place as one of the definitive country artists of this decade. And even though this regular Joe is shy to sing his own praises, few would argue that Joe Diffie is indeed one of country music's all-time great vocalists.
From the soul-deep wisdom and heart-rending emotion of his classic ballad, "Ships That Don't Come In," to the ingenious wit of his signature smash, "Third Rock From the Sun," and the three new hits-to-be that the album comprises, Joe sets the standard for a new generation of country artists and fans. And the nine No. 1 songs he's left in his trail underscore his deep and enduring connection with the masses.
"I can't do a song that isn't honest and genuine," Joe explains. "Before I sing anything, -it --has to make a real-life connection with me. And then people can see pieces of their own lives in there. I'm a country boy from Oklahoma, and what touches me are the same things that touch a lot of folks."
Joe has made a career of seeing magic in much of what the world would call mundane. His 1995 chart-topper, "Bigger Than the Beatles," is a perfect case-in-point. The song tells the story of a couple who lead lives that most people think of as completely "ordinary." Yet in each other's eyes, their life and love couldn't be more special and extraordinary.
And the same could be said of Joe's Greatest Hits. The effect of 12 back-to-back Diffie masterpieces is staggering-and leaves no, doubt that he is not only a terrific singer. Joe Diffie is a stylist and interpreter of singular-even stunning-range and diversity.
Looking for humor? "Pickup Man" is a side-splitting saga of the timeless love affair between a man and his truck. True and tender love? "So Help Me Girl" is your ticket. How about 100-proof-no-chaser country? "Honky Tonk Attitude" and "Prop Me Up Beside the Jukebox (If I Die)" are as straight-up as it gets. Or perhaps a modern-day parable. "Ships That Don't Come In" resounds with hardwon, life-changing insight and revelation.
"John Deere Green" takes a rocking country look at the light-hearted side of small-town life, while Joe's debut single, "Home," earned him a place in posterity - and the record books - in 1990, when it shot to out of the, box to the top of the charts, stirring memories and tugging heartstrings all across America.
But that was then. And as great as it was-and remains-the "now" gets even better. With all-star producer Don Cook at the helm-revered for his multimillion selling work with Brooks & Dunn, and a host of country superstars-the three new songs Joe cut for Greatest Hits evidence an artist incapable of sitting still creatively, and determined to stretch himself beyond the boundaries of established perceptions and expectations.
"It's no coincidence that Don has been behind so- many hit records," says Joe. "He's got a feel for great songs, and he is a master at getting the best out of his musicians. We'd never worked together before. The newness of the relationship shook things up in a -really positive way. And along with Lonnie Wilson, who co-produced, I think we found a pocket that took us to a place that is consistent with what's gone before, but at the same time is fresh and a little different."
"Texas Size Heartache" lays country fiddles and guitars atop a popping, infectious groove, as it paints a picture of a let-down as big as the Lone Star State itself. In "Hurt Me All the Time" a delighted lover dispels rumors of his partner's unfaithfulness. And "Poor Me" is a classic, late-night roadhouse lament worthy of legends with names like Haggard and Jones. As Joe swaggers into the million-dollar hook ("Poor me/Poor me/Pour me another"), both his reverence for his mentors and his own worthiness to stand in their hallowed company are obvious.
Joe was raised in a musical home where extended-family jam sessions were a normal event. He made his public debut at age four, singing "You Are My Sunshine," accompanied by his aunt's country band. Stints in a "four-song, highschool garage band" segued -into -a gospel quartet and a bluegrass group in Joe's early 20s as he continued to expand his horizons. Seriously bitten with the music bug, it wasn't long before Joe lit out for Music City and a stab at the big time. A job at Gibson Guitar's Nashville plant paid the bills while Joe shopped his songs on Music Row. The job cemented a relationship with the legendary company that continues to this day through endorsements and customized guitars.
When Holly Dunn had a major hit in 1989 with "There Goes My Heart Again," co-written by Joe, the value of his stock increased considerably. By that time he'd also become a sought-after demo singer whose voice was winding up on the desks of producers, artists and label executives all over town. As the '80s ended, Joe graduated to a record deal of his own and within a year had laid claim to a permanent stake atop the country charts.
Throughout the '90s, Joe's fevered chart activity has been accompanied by equally fervent charitable and humanitarian -work. Himself -the, parent of a Down Syndrome child, Joe has ;worked tirelessly on behalf -of. Nashville's. First Steps, an organization dedicated to loving, teaching and nurturing physically and mentally handicapped children. Sponsoring the star-studded, yearly "Country Steps in for First Steps" concert, and the annual "Joe Diffie Charity Golf Classic," he's raised more than a half-million dollars for the group, with this year's concert proceeds of $80,000 doubling 1997 and setting an all-time record. Joe was also selected this year by the Nashville Council of Community Services as its first "Honorary Unsung Hero" for -his extensive charity work, as well as the Country Radio Broadcasters' Artist Humanitarian Award in 1997.
Joe Diffie is a man who has received a lot from country fans and the industry itself. And he's never hesitated to give back generously in return.
Joe's outlook on what he does is much like his songs-truthful and to the point. "Just making great music is my only goal," he says. "if I take care of the music, the music will take care of me."
But it's Joe's thoughts on the legacy he leaves behind him that reveal volumes about both his music and the heart of the man behind it. "I hope I'd always be known as a great singer, but that's really secondary," he concludes. "If people could say, 'He was a good friend ... a nice -guy ... someone you could trust,' I'd be really satisfied. Strip everything else away, and those are the things that matter the most."
JOE DIFFIE GREATEST HITS THE SONGS
1 "Third Rock From The Sun" #1
Third Rock From The Sun
2 "John Deere Green" #5
Honky Tonk Attitude
3 "Texas Size Heartache" New Single
Joe Diffie, Greatest Hits
4 "Ships That Don't Come In" #1
Regular Joe
5 "Pickup Man" 4 Weeks at #1 in Billboard
Third Rock From The Sun
6 "So Help Me Girl" #1
Third Rock From The Sun
7 "Poor Me" New Unreleased Track
Joe Diffie, Greatest Hits
8 "Honky Tonk Attitude" #5
Honky Tonk Attitude
9 "Home" First Single of Joe's Career #1
A Thousand Winding Roads
10 "Prop Me Up Beside The Jukebox (If I Die)" #2
Honky Tonk Attitude
11 "Bigger Than The Beatles" 2 Weeks #1 in Billboard
Life's So Funny
12 "Hurt Me All The Time" New Unreleased Track
Joe Diffie, Greatest Hits
Previous bio information follows:
Just last year, Joe was somewhere in orbit high on the country charts, savoring the widely successful ride of Third Rock From the Sun. His light-hearted, live-wire fourth album landed the amiable Oklahoman firmly into the upper echelon of Nashville stars, and is soaring now toward double-platinum status. Not exactly the easiest act in the world to follow. But, with a shift of imagery from interplanetary to interpersonal: Joe has done it masterfully with his latest release for Epic Records, Life’s So Funny.
The vivid and versatile work taps the trademark playfulness of his honky tonkin’ past and his touch for heartfelt ballads--traits that have marked the success of past albums. Yet Life’s So Funny also charts new territory for the singer. It sets a more contemporary and contemplative country tone, thoughtfully exploring the joys, sorrows and ambiguities of life and love.
"To quote and old saying, you don’t want to get off the horse you rode in on, but you don’t want to travel over the same trail, either," he says with a chuckle. "It’s always a little bit or a risk when you go out there a little bit and test the waters. But I just really wanted to try to take the next step."
Joe has notched nine No. 1 hits since his debut since 1990.
Joe received a Gold record for 1992’s Regular Joe 1993’s Honky Tonk Attitude and Third Rock From The Sun each went platinum (one million copies sold).
Joe won a Country Music Association award for the George Jones collaboration I Don’t Need Your Rocking Chair and was nominated for a Grammy for his collaboration with Mary Chapin Carpenter.
Joe will announce nominees for the American Academy of Country Music Awards show, set for May, and will as perform on that highly rated program as well.
Besides country music, Joe’s passions include NASCAR racing and playing golf; last year his annual charity golf tournament raised $40,000 to benefit First Steps, a school for mentally and physically challenged children.
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