Joel Cotton is an emerging multi-instrumentalist based in North Jersey known for his captivating sound and unique melodies.

In 2012 he moved to the East Coast to study at the Jackie McLean School in Hartford Connecticut. ​

In 2014, he was chosen to as a Master's Student at the world renowned Jazz Studies program at William Paterson University on a a full-ride scholarship.

It was at WPU that Joel met Steven Kirsty and Matt Niedbalski and started a band known as Sonic Connection. They have performed in many venues in New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut. Joel and Matt also started a duo band, drums and saxophone called Brothers. They released their first album in 2020. 

​In 2016 Joel recorded and released his first self led album, Consequence. 

In 2023 Joel met Brandon McCune, a great musician based in North Jersey and began playing writing music for a quartet featuring McCune and playing as a sideman with him. 

​Over the years, Joel has performed with the likes of Harold Mabern (Lee Morgan),

Abraham Burton (Arthur Taylor), Duane Eubanks (Elvin Jones), Bill Charlap (Tony Bennett), Brandon McCune (Buster Williams), Nat Reeves (Kenny Garrett), Rene McLean (Jackie McLean and Woody Shaw), Steve Davis (Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers), Jack Walrath (Charles Mingus), Joe Farnsworth (George Coleman), Ben Wolfe (Wynton Marsalis), Bob Cranshaw (Sonny Rollins), Josh Evans (Christian McBride), Dezron Douglas (Louis Hayes), and the Charles Mingus Big Band (Grammy Artist).

Joel has played at many jazz clubs and music festivals across the United States.

 

For booking inquires email joelcottonbetteridge@gmail.com