Joe Principe American musician Date of Birth: 14.11.1974 Country: USA

1. Joe Principe: An American Musician
2. From 88 Fingers Louie to Rise Against
3. A Discography under Different Labels
4. A Passion for Music and Pizza
5. Straight-Edge and Animal Rights Activism
6. The Evolution of Principe's Playing Style
7. A Humble and Influential Musician

Joe Principe: An American Musician

Joe Principe is an American musician, best known as the bassist, backing vocalist, and one of the founding members of the punk rock band 'Rise Against'. He began his journey in music at the age of 15, learning to play by ear. His idols included 'Bad Religion', 'Minor Threat', 'Bad Brains', 'Descendents', and other similar bands.

From 88 Fingers Louie to Rise Against

For some time, Principe performed with the Chicago punk band '88 Fingers Louie'. After six years of active touring and recording, Joe decided to form his own band. Alongside him, the former guitarist of '88 Fingers Louie', Mr. Precision, joined 'Rise Against', along with drummer Brandon Barnes and singer/guitarist Tim McIlrath. In 2002, Mr. Precision was replaced by Todd Mohney, who was later replaced by Chris Chasse in 2004. Zach Blair took over the role in 2007.

A Discography under Different Labels

'Rise Against' released their first two records, 'The Unraveling' and 'Revolutions per Minute', under 'Fat Wreck Chords'. Subsequently, 'Siren Song of the Counter Culture', 'The Sufferer & the Witness', and 'Appeal to Reason' were released under 'Geffen Records', while 'Endgame' was released with the help of 'Interscope'.

A Passion for Music and Pizza

In the spring and summer of 1994, Principe worked at 'Rotz Records' for a brief period, known for their infamous basement warehouse. He was fired due to improperly packaged CDs, with the album 'Smash' by 'The Offspring' being one of the albums he was supposed to package. Currently, Joe resides in the suburbs of Chicago. His favorite food is pizza, and his bandmates confirm that he truly consumes pizza every day. His love for this Italian dish is immortalized through a tattoo he got.

Straight-Edge and Animal Rights Activism

Like Blair and McIlrath, Joe is a staunch straight-edger. He abstains from tobacco and drugs, and he is also known as an active vegetarian. He not only avoids eating meat but also supports animal rights. Often, 'Rise Against' promotes PETA and their activities during their concerts.

The Evolution of Principe's Playing Style

Fans and critics of 'Rise Against' recognized that Principe's playing significantly improved after the release of the album 'The Sufferer & the Witness'. Initially, Joe only played bass, but at some point, he decided to try other instruments. He did not attempt to stand out from the band; his playing was usually solid without any extravagant embellishments. Joe took his performances seriously, preparing five different setups in advance for the band's equipment to suit various situations. His main tools were a pick and a touch of distortion. Overall, Joe played predictably, although he occasionally ventured into experimenting, evident in songs like 'The Good Left Undone'. During the recording of 'The Sufferer & the Witness', Principe played a secondary role, but he excelled in his parts. For this album, he preferred to work with lower tones, although he is typically drawn to higher notes.

A Humble and Influential Musician

Principe regards 'Descendents' as his main idols, acknowledging that they have had the greatest influence on his playing. He does not enjoy boasting about his skills, displaying incredible modesty and sincerity in his interactions with journalists. In turn, his bandmates have repeatedly acknowledged Joe's significant contributions to the success of 'Rise Against'.