Joey Mitchell's bachelors degree in music performance and education with honors from UMBC and achievement awards in music are just some of the things that speak to this bassist's intellect. While at UMBC Joey honed his jazz chops with award-winning bassist, Tom Baldwin, and went on to solidify his technique with Laura Ruas who holds both her bachelors and masters degrees from Julliard. He continues to maintain this undying thirst for knowledge and progression. Recently, Joey began studying with Paul Langosch, acclaimed bassist and long time touring and recording artist for Tony Bennett.

Through dedicated involvement in a handful of bands Joey demonstrates his compelling success in mastering a diverse collection of genres including country, jazz, bluegrass, rock, folk, blues, and more. His range of technical skill is equally inspiring. While opting for his 5-string Kay upright bass for the majority of his work, Joey also sports 4, 5, and 6 string fretted and fretless electrics and simultaneously fills out the sound with a kick drum at his feet or a harmonica fastened to his neck. No matter the band, genre, venue, or instrument, Joey habitually comes to the stage with infectious energy and stage presence. In recent months Joey also lent his talent to local recording artists and added session bassist to his extensive resume. Always eager to collaborate with other musicians, he looks forward to ramping up his studio time.

Joey first broke out onto the local scene after joining forces with country singer and former Sony recording artist Caitlin Lynn and singer/songwriter Jen Van Meter as the full-time bassist in their group, Eighty1South. Forced to move on after Caitlin relocated to Nashville, Joey and Eighty1South guitarist Brian Forte teamed up with former Yellow No. 5 bassist Mark O'Dell to launch Mixed Business. Now in it's third year, MB has achieved a loyal following and a jam-packed calendar. When he's not gigging or recording with Mixed Business, Joey is the other half to Ruben Dobb's brainchild Swampcandy. In the summer of 2010, this accomplished duo tore up a two-week trek to the UK where they supplied a fury of delta blues licks to intensely receptive crowds and returned tighter than ever. Since there are 28 hours in Joey Mitchell's day, he also sits in with Annapolis bigwigs Pressing Strings whenever he has the opportunity. Joey's artistic contributions to these projects have allowed him to showcase his talent nationally and internationally -- from music hub Nashville, TN to Canada and the UK.

In addition to performing, Joey also juggles an enthusiastic passion for teaching. He has taught professionally at Mike's Music in Ellicott City for the past 3 years and operates a private studio in Elkridge, MD. Equipped with the patience of a teacher, the drive of a rock star, and the talent of a classically trained musician, Joey Mitchell is a force to be reckoned with.