Joe's professional singing career began when, among other engagements, he opened for the famed US comedian Henny Youngman. His rich and flexible baritone voice led him to tour extensively, performing throughout the US, Europe and Japan, sometimes playing in front of audiences of up to 40,000.
In the late 1980’s Joe decided to leave the Glenn Miller Orchestra and concentrate on developing a solo career, immediately earning praise from such celebrities as Jack Jones, Larry Hagman (JR), and Rosemary Clooney.
Later in the decade Joe was championed in the UK by the Sinatra Music Society. Award-winning producer Ken Barnes (who worked with some of the best, including Peggy Lee, Bing Crosby and Jack Jones) was brought in to work with Joe. A recording contract with BMG was signed and a turntable hit “Every Step of the Way” with the Pete Moore Orchestra ensued, which charted and was a huge turntable hit.
Drawing on the Great American Songbook and other popular music from around the world, Francis has a distinctive intonation and impeccable delivery. Following the success of "Every Step of the Way" Francis enjoyed great success both sides of the Atlantic appearing regularly on BBC Television with the BBC Big Band (conducted by Jack Parnell).
Joe was spotted and signed to the Damone Management GRP working with its co-founder Perry Damone, son of legendary singer Vic Damone.
Joe was immediately booked for a lengthy tour of the UK, commencing with 6 straight nights at the Pizza On The Park, the famous venue on London’s Hyde Park Following a very successful UK tour in early 2005 and a successful new CD release "Easy to Remember" on the DMG label , Francis was invited to audition for a leading role of Billy Flynn in the UK’s West End version of the stage musical Chicago. Despite being invited back for a second time Joe was unable to commit at that time but remained on the radar for several West End producers.
