Skip to main content
2025 Jazz Education Network Conference Main banner
Final Program


2025 Program Guide
Icon Legend
This session is not in your schedule.
This session is in your schedule. Click again to remove it.
Presentation Icons
JazzWire Adult Learner Track
JazzWire Adult Learner Track

Joseph Straws, III (he/him/his)

Kansas City, Kansas

DJ Joe (Joseph Straws III)
Born and raised in the vibrant heart of Kansas City, DJ Joe (Joseph Straws III) has built a reputation as one of the most versatile and sought-after DJs in the industry. With a musical foundation rooted in classical jazz drumming and over two decades of experience behind the decks, DJ Joe has become a master of his craft, blending genres and captivating audiences across the globe.
A jazz drummer by training, DJ Joe honed his skills while still in school at Sumner Academy of Fine Arts & Sciences. After graduation, Joe continued to use his skills, performing with local bands and musicians. He also showcased his drumming talents with the KC All Stars band before finding a way to merge his love for rhythm with his passion for DJing. This fusion led to the creation of the "DJ Joe Experience," an innovative project where he captivates audiences by drumming and DJing almost simultaneously. Continuing to embrace his love of drumming, Joe performed with the KCKCC Jazz Ensemble and earned a prestigious Downbeat award in 2020 for his performance on a jazz track. Beyond performing, Joe dedicates time every week as the Marching Band Drumline instructor at his alma mater Sumner Academy of Fine Arts and Sciences in Kansas City, Kansas, inspiring the next generation of musicians.
DJ Joe’s talent has earned him opportunities to share the stage with some of the biggest names in music. He has DJ’d alongside or opened for legendary artists such as Kirk Franklin, Erica Campbell, Robert Glasper, Babyface, Anthony Hamilton, Ledisi, and Oleta Adams, among others. His high-profile performances include gigs at premier venues, major festivals, and exclusive events across the United States and internationally, cementing his status as a global entertainer.
In his hometown, DJ Joe is a beloved figure, having entertained crowds at Arrowhead Stadium for the Kansas City Chiefs and electrified college audiences at Missouri University (MU) during football season. His dynamic range and ability to connect with diverse audiences have also made him a fixture at school events and Diwali festivals throughout the Kansas City Metro area. As the former resident DJ for the Nelson-Atkins Museum’s iconic Third Thursday events, DJ Joe transformed the elegant Bloch Lobby into a pulsating celebration of art and music each month. Additionally, he brought his energy to back-to-back performances in the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parades in 2023 and 2024, celebrating the team’s historic victories with thousands of fans.
Beyond his technical skills and wide-ranging musical knowledge, DJ Joe’s commitment to the community sets him apart. He has supported countless philanthropic initiatives, lending his talents to organizations such as Make-A-Wish, the American Heart Association, Children’s Mercy Hospital of Kansas City, the American Cancer Society, and the March of Dimes. Whether at parades, rallies, or charity fundraisers, DJ Joe’s presence brings energy, joy, and a spirit of giving to every event.
An open-format DJ with an unmatched ability to seamlessly transition between genres, DJ Joe delivers unforgettable experiences tailored to any audience. From intimate gatherings to massive celebrations, his focus remains on providing the highest level of satisfaction for every client and crowd. With an undeniable passion for music and a proven track record of excellence, DJ Joe continues to make his mark as a premier entertainer and community leader.

Disclosure information not submitted.

Presentation(s):

Email Joseph