An Evening with That Joe Payne and Friends!

Information

This year’s ProgPower Pre-Party, presented by The Progspace, welcomes UK prog artist That Joe Payne, performing an acoustic setlist of stripped back original songs and popular covers, joined by his guitarist Joshua Ryan. His show will also feature a collection of special guest musicians from the genre (to be announced).

It will be the vocalist’s first performance in NL since appearing at Progproms 2024 last December, when he got the chance to sing alongside the legendary Eward Reekers and his amazing band of musicians. Previous appearances in NL include Progdreams Festival in Zoetermeer (both solo and with The Enid), and the 2019 Marillion Weekend in Port Zélande.

Biography

Queer artist and award-winning progressive-music vocalist, That Joe Payne, is recognised for his involvement with a variety of projects, from solo releases to collaborations with Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater), The Enid, John Holden, and Zio.

Based in Northampton, England, and remembered by audiences for boasting an impressive five-octave range and flamboyant showmanship, his voice has featured on no less than seventeen album releases since his debut in 2012.

Today, the singer uses his platform to advocate for better Mental Health Awareness and LGBTQ+ rights, with Payne's 2025 shows and releases carrying a message of solidarity with all marginalised groups affected by anti-DEI rhetoric.

Personal achievements include being voted Best Male Vocalist two years running by the readers of Prog Magazine, winning 'Best Progressive Rock Album' with Jordan Rudess for PERMISSION TO FLY in the 2024 Progspace Awards, and three Progressive Music Award nominations for his work with The Enid.

Quotes

“Vocally a cross between Freddie Mercury and George Michael.” Jerry Ewing, Prog Magazine

“That Joe Payne sets up one magical evening.” Paul Davies, Record Collector Magazine

“An exceptional talent – the show is phenomenal.” Kerrie Cosh, BBC Introducing

“He proves to be able to stand on his own two feet and is an excellent composer.” Paul Rijkens, iO Pages

"A welcome change into the vast prog landscape." Roie Avin, Prog Report

"An artist that may have infinite potential." Jason Spencer, The PROG Mind

“The winning mix between different sounds.” Jacopo Vigezzi, Progressive Rock Journal

“Music to save lives.” Steve Pilkington, Velvet Thunder