Biography
Joy Clark is a Louisiana-born singer-songwriter and guitarist whose music is a vibrant blend of southern folk, soul, and the rhythms of her New Orleans upbringing. Raised as the youngest of five children in a deeply religious family just outside New Orleans, Clark’s earliest musical experiences were rooted in the church, where she led worship services with her siblings every Sunday in Harvey, Louisiana. Home-schooled for much of her childhood, she was steeped in gospel and hymns, which shaped her vocal style and songwriting, but her journey was also marked by the challenges of growing up as a queer woman in a conservative environment.
Clark’s artistic path took a decisive turn when she attended the University of New Orleans, immersing herself in the city’s legendary music scene and drawing inspiration from its 'do whatcha wanna' spirit. This period of exploration and self-discovery connected her with a diverse community of queer artists, poets, and activists, and exposed her to a wide array of musical influences, including Southern rock, blues, and Americana. Her debut album, 'Tell it to the Wind,' produced by Grammy-nominated Margaret Becker, is both a declaration of independence and a tribute to her roots, blending social consciousness with the soulful traditions of Southeast Louisiana. Clark has since established herself on the national stage, touring with Grammy winner Cyril Neville and performing alongside artists such as Allison Russell, Brandi Carlile, Indigo Girls, and Ani DiFranco.
Clark’s music is celebrated for its introspective lyricism, expressive guitar work, and the way it bridges her personal narrative with broader themes of identity, community, and resilience. As a proud, queer Black woman, she uses her platform to foster connection and hope, making her a distinctive and influential voice in contemporary southern gothic and Americana music.
Fun Facts
- Clark’s first memory of singing was in church with her father at around age 11.
- She was not allowed to listen to secular music or popular culture until she was old enough to make her own decisions, leading to a unique blend of gospel and folk influences in her work.
- Her grandmother was the first family member to accept her after she came out as queer, providing crucial support during a challenging period.
- Clark’s debut album, 'Tell it to the Wind,' is both a declaration of independence and a love letter to the traditions that shaped her upbringing.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Cyril Neville - Tour mentor and collaborator; Clark earned a regular spot touring with Neville, a Grammy-winning New Orleans music legend, which helped launch her professional career. (Touring performances) [2010s–present]
- Margaret Becker - Producer and co-writer; Becker, a four-time Grammy nominee, produced Clark’s debut album and co-wrote six of its nine tracks. (Tell it to the Wind (album)) [2020s]
Key Collaborators
- Allison Russell - Clark has played professionally in bands for Russell, contributing guitar and vocals. (Live performances, touring) [2020s]
- Brandi Carlile - Shared the stage during live performances and festivals. (Live performances) [2020s]
- Indigo Girls - Shared the stage during live performances. (Live performances) [2020s]
- Ani DiFranco - Shared the stage during live performances. (Live performances) [2020s]
Artists Influenced
- No widely documented protégés or direct students as of 2025. - Clark’s influence is noted in the broader community of queer, Black, and southern musicians, but specific names are not cited in available sources.
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Tell it to the Wind | 2024-10-04 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Freedom Is A Constant Struggle (Freedom Is A Constant Struggle)
- Lesson (Tell it to the Wind)
- Guest (Tell it to the Wind)
- Shimmering (Tell it to the Wind)
- One Step in the Right Direction (Tell it to the Wind)
- All Behind (Tell it to the Wind)
- Shine (Tell it to the Wind)
- Tell it to the Wind (Tell it to the Wind)
- Good Thing (Good Thing)
- These are the Days (Tell it to the Wind)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Joy Clark has been played 4 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 14, 2025 | 14:47 | Gumbo Christmasfrom Gumbo Christmas - Single | Homespun Americanaw/ Ol Man River | |
| Dec 8, 2025 | 13:19 | Love Yourselffrom Live! in Seattle | New Orleans Music Showw/ Murf Reeves | |
| Oct 25, 2025 | 22:46 | Shimmeringfrom Tell it to the Wind | Awake and Willingw/ Peggy Lou | |
| Sep 16, 2025 | 13:42 | Shinefrom Tell It To The Wind | New Orleans Music Showw/ Cole Williams |