The connection of Dry Creek to its earthly namesake is best reflected in its lead singer/guitarist/ director Joe Baxley.  Like his father before him, Joe is a practicing natural resources professional whose appreciation for nature and the great outdoors is reflected in his musical tastes and interests. Joe’s early influences include the likes of Doc Watson and Bill Monroe as well as Bob Wills and Jerry Lee Lewis.  Those influences can be heard through Joe’s flat picking guitar playing and through his soulful, down-to earth vocals.  Joe stepped into the lead vocalist’s role at the “passive urging” of his band mates, originally preferring to leave the singing to someone else. However, it has been his rock-solid steady baritone accompanied by his artful chord picking segueing into articulate lead work that has been the heart and soul of the Dry Creek sound.  In addition to his talented musical works Joe has been the organizational brains behind the success of Dry Creek, coordinating musicians, bookings, recording sessions and payroll.  

Joe is the consummate outdoorsman, spending as many daylight hours as possible afield.  In addition to his work in conservation Joe is a skilled horseman and upland field guide, and an expert shot with both pistol and long gun.  He also is a talented builder and Dry Creek’s rehearsal studio at his home estate was built with his own two hands.