News & Reviews

Joel Rafael Recorded Live at Newport Folk Festival 2012

Courtesy of FolkAlley.com

Joel Rafael first began performing in showcases and small clubs around Los Angeles, San Diego and the Inland Empire in California. He formed a duo with San Diego-based Rosie Flores in 1978, enjoying standing-room-only crowds during their nine-month collaboration. Soon after, local promoters sought him as an opener for national touring acts from Rick Danko to Emmy Lou Harris, including John Lee Hooker, John Stewart, Laura Nyro, and Taj Majal. In 1981, Rafael toured the southwest with Jesse Colin Young, and released a debut album, Dharma Bums.