Born on July 2, 1949, in Rochester, New York,[2] Joe English was a member of the band Jam Factory, a group based in Syracuse, that evolved into the Tall Dogs Orchestra of Macon, Georgia.
In September 1977, during the recording sessions for Wings' London Town, English became homesick and returned to Macon, Georgia, where he began playing with Chuck Leavell's band Sea Level.
Following his Christian salvation experience, he formed the Joe English Band, performing as lead singer and drummer.
In the late 1980s, English joined Randy Stonehill, Phil Keaggy, Rick Cua and others as part of the Compassion All Star Band.
He has been unable to play drums professionally since the late 1990s, due to chronic problems with his ankles.