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BTJ: I’ve played a few clubs on Beale Street in Memphis a few times, mainly during
the International Blues Challenge. The audience response was amazing. Some people

said they hadn’t heard that kind of music in years, or only from their grandparents,
which honestly surprised me. It also feels really good to have listeners who get the
lyrics. I had some really fun shows there.

BiTS: If you could choose, what would be the ideal venue you would like to play in?

BTJ: I’d love to play in a cosy listening room or a small theatre for around 250 to 300
people, close to the stage. Dimly lit, so everyone can just sink into the music and the

stories. I’ve done a few shows like that, and they’re absolutely magical.

BiTS: The one thing I don’t want to know is your real name! I am delighted that you
follow the footsteps of all of those people who went by strange stage names like Muddy
Waters and Barbecue Bob, Peetie Wheatstraw and many others. What I would like to

know though is why you chose the name you use. Can you tell me?

BTJ: I guess the name chose me. Friends always said I seemed grumpy, like I was
bad-tempered all the time, even as a teenager. When I started playing open mics, I

used my birth name for a few shows, but I switched pretty quickly. Friends were always
calling me Joe anyway.

I’ve always liked the idea of stage names, like Lightnin’ Hopkins or Big Joe Williams,

and I wanted something that fit me. I went with ‘Bad Temper’. It actually helps on
stage. Sometimes I don’t talk at all or don’t smile, and it’s fun when the audience tries
to make me laugh or catch me smiling. It’s like a little game within the show.

BiTS: Thanks for chatting to me Joe

BTJ: Thanks so much for the interview! I really enjoyed your questions. If anything
else comes up, just let me know!

Bad Temper Joe — If Tears Were Diamonds