JOE GOTHARD

UJC guitarist, Joe Gothard, can best be described using the word "versatile".  Gothard has performed in virtually every genre of the musical spectrum during his career.  The self-taught guitarist has performed as a solo artist, as part of a two-piece computer generated dance act, a variety of country/rock and R&B groups, and as part of the renowned World Harvest Church Praise & Worship Band.  Joe says, "I really enjoy listening to and playing all types of music.   One of the best ways to understand people who are different than yourself is to listen to their music and to eat the same food that they eat."

At age 15, Joe began his musical journey when he and childhood buddy, Phil Raney, purchased guitars and began learning chord changes from their favorite records.  Music evolved into a much more serious endeavor for Gothard during his college years at Ohio University, as Joe played his first professional gigs with The Journey's End Band.  During that period the young guitarist began to develop the signature solo style and funky rhythm chops that he now exhibits on the bandstand with Urban Jazz Coalition.

Speaking of UJC, Gothard says, "Everyone in this group is such a great player, they are a pleasure to watch.   We have been together a dozen year's which takes a special bond.   One of my favorite Proverbs says: The light in the eyes of him whose heart is joyful rejoices the heart of others .    Most importantly I think people can see that this is more than just a band to us, I hope they get uplifted too".

Gothard considers it a blessing that he has had the opportunity to meet fans from around the country and world by way of travel and the internet.   Joe says "I appreciate it when people take their time to come see us or to contact us on the web.   Time is a person's most valuable asset because we all have a limited amount.   It is special when people share it with you".

Getting the chance to meet and perform with some of the great guitar players that he has respected over the years, such as Russ Freeman, Norman Brown, Ken Navarro, Larry Carlton, Peter White and Richard Smith has also been an inspiration.

Joe plays G&L, Epiphone and Ibanez guitars, and powers his sound with Line 6 effects and Fender Amplifiers.