Diamond Joe Maryland - Lost New Orleans Soul Hero (2023) - Rare Soul (MP3 81.2MB)

One of the more obscure recording artists from the New Orleans’ area, but frustratingly, one of the best and least recorded. Joe made only 7 45s in the 1960s for various labels that were affiliated with Allen Toussaint. His voice is somewhat reminiscent of Willie West, but in a slightly smokier baritone. Perhaps best known for his 2 part single, Moanin’ and Screamin’, but also took on edgier material, such as the zither introduced song, Fair Play. Joe was born, and raised in a small town about 40 minutes to the west of NO, LaPlace. During his short recording career, he made a good living as an auto mechanic (same as Lee Dorsey) in his hometown, given its proximity to chemical plants and refineries, and the constant need for repair and maintenance work on their trucks and machinery. Given the steady pay from those endeavors, Joe was apparently hesitant to give that up for the uncertainty of a career in the music business. Although only rumored, part of this hesitancy may have also been the influence that Ernie K-Doe had on Allen Toussaint. Both K-Doe and Joe were managed by Toussaint, and K-Doe was allegedly intimidated by Joe’s early recordings and supposedly used his influence over Toussaint (remember, Mother-In-Law was a gigantic hit at that time) to get him to not push Maryland’s career choice. These singles are the entire Diamond Joe recording legacy; he never recorded a proper album. Enjoy gents!

Pmac. 

I can tell you now this is a brilliant collection !..only recognise 3 from the Northern Scene

AMM 

                                                                                  Courtesy Of Pmac....Thank You!

                                                                                                       The Tasters!