Growing up in a non-musical family, Joe latched onto the country music tapes his parents would play around the house. After asking his parents for piano lessons, he began playing at age seven. During this time, he discovered composers like Koji Kondo and Nobuo Uematsu through video games and their soundtracks. His parents began showing him other music from their era: namely Elton John and The Beatles.

He played other instruments during his teens, like the trombone and guitar. During high school, he played in a metal band with friends and played jazz in his school band. He was awarded the Paderewski Medal prior to graduating high school.

Previously uninterested in modern music, Joe began to incorporate more styles into his repertoire. His primary influences around this time ranged from classical composers like J. S. Bach, metalcore bands like Underoath, to songwriters like John Mayer.

He attended Ouachita Baptist University, studying piano under Dr. Lei Cai. He also played trombone in various ensembles (jazz, wind, etc.). During this time, he tutored peers when they needed help with piano pieces or other music courses. Joe began composing original works and developed an interest in music theory and analysis. The works of Alban Berg and Ludwig van Beethoven were especially impactful during this time.

Upon graduating, Joe focused on a career in information technology and played music in various settings: music collectives, weddings, and churches. Throughout this period, he continued to experiment with different kinds of composition and developed new skills: singing from vocal lessons, self-taught drumming and bass guitar, and music production.

In 2023, he formed the jazz group, The Generations Trio, with Mike Skiffington and Jorge Santamaria. The group currently plays at various spots around Richmond, including Reveler and Goldwing. The group pays particular attention to the works of Bill Evans and Herbie Hancock.

His debut EP Exhale was released in 2024 under his songwriter moniker Hilton Modes. The collection of songs uses elements of pop, jazz, and electronic dance music. The songs focus on themes of loneliness and powerlessness, but also redemption and hopefulness. Joe produced and mixed the project himself.

This same year, he faced his career burnout and left his corporate job to focus on his family and musical goals. He currently teaches music with traditional lessons, creates content, works at a record store, tinkers with vintage audio equipment, and continues to produce music with a variety of tools. He lives in Richmond, VA with his spouse, Rachel, and three cats.

Regardless of genre or style, Joe appreciates harmony, noise, and everything in between.