Photos by Natalie Mason – Vance Joy is an Australian singer-songwriter and musician born on December 1, 1987, in Melbourne, Australia. His real name is James Gabriel Keogh, but he chose his stage name in honor of his grandfather, who used to play in a band called Vance Joy.
Joy attended St. Kevin’s College in Melbourne and later studied law and arts at Monash University. However, he decided to pursue music and started performing in local venues in Melbourne.
In 2013, Joy released his debut single, “Riptide,” which became a huge hit in Australia and internationally. The song peaked at number six on the US Billboard Hot 100 and was featured in several TV shows and movies, including “The Vampire Diaries” and “Pitch Perfect.” The success of “Riptide” led to Joy’s debut album, “Dream Your Life Away,” which was released in 2014. Joy’s music is characterized by his distinctive voice, acoustic guitar, and catchy melodies. His lyrics often explore themes of love, relationships, and personal growth. He has cited artists such as Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, and James Taylor as influences.
Since his debut, Joy has released two more albums, “Nation of Two” (2018) and “Live at the Opera House” (2021). He has also toured extensively, playing in festivals and arenas around the world.
Joy has received several awards and nominations, including an ARIA Award for Best Male Artist in 2014. He is known for his engaging live performances and his ability to connect with his fans through his music.
JACK BOTTS
