Joseph McElmeel ’97
Joseph McElmeel graduated from Bradley University in 1997 with degrees in both Music Performance and Business Management. Over the last ten years he has been able to develop both as a musician and a businessman. He has performed throughout the US and abroad including touring with his bands in Tokyo and with the USO. In addition to performing, he also manages and promotes other up-and-coming groups and runs a music camp for kids during the summer. He has truly been able to find a wonderful mix of both of his educational backgrounds.
What made you decide to go to Bradley?
I fell in love with the campus the minute I visited. It just felt very comfortable…oh…and I got a bunch of scholarship money and grants…
Who were your favorite mentors/professors/advisors??
Dr. Stephen Heinemann was probably the professor I learned the most from and respected the most. He challenged me regularly as a student, professional, and creative individual.
This year is the 10 th anniversary of your graduation. What do you miss most/least?
I miss being able to take that nap in the middle of the day, the basketball games, and being immersed in learning.
Favorite Spot/Hangout at Bradley?
My favorite hangouts were the practice rooms in Constance Hall or the basement of Dingeldine. Things, both creative and otherwise, happen in those rooms that are amazing…ha….
You are now out in California. How long have you been out there? What was it like to make such a drastic move (since you are originally from IL)? What encounters have you had with BU alums in the area?
I’ve been in Los Angeles for nine years now. The move itself was awesome and had its challenges, but I was very fortunate right away and that helped me land on my feet. I was surrounded by a few alumni that had come out here before me, so that was cool. First, I played with a band signed to Hep Cat records with an alumnus who played drums. We played huge venues like the Hollywood Bowl and The Derby. Then I recorded my first album with Bradley alumnus and engineer Evan Beigel ’95, at his amazing studio. We also did a couple of other projects together for Capitol Records. Outside of that, I would have big parties with tons of bands that would attract numerous other alumni living in the area.
You were a Music and Business double major at BU. Tell us a little bit about your current professional career?
I’m currently signed with my band “Better Luck Next Time” to GoKart Records in the U.S. and internationally. I’ve been on TV shows and been filmed in movies as a musician. I’ve earned three multi-platinum RIAA awards for business I’ve done in music. I have a roster of private students, teach general music classes, tour as a hired gun with other artists, oversee five rock music day camps in Southern California, produce albums, write songs for artists, arrange for Broadway musicals, and lead music at a huge church. In order to do this I have an office, staff, and assistants.
What at BU prepared you most for what you are doing now?
The entrepreneurship classes and all the performing that I did while at Bradley gave me the practical skills to earn a living and succeed in a challenging field.
Are there musicians or other performers that you would like to work with?
Sure…tons… I don’t know where to start…
It’s been 10 years since graduation, and you’ve accomplished a lot. What are your goals for the next 5-10 years?
The most important thing I can do over the next ten years is get to a point where I’m able to tour but still grow the business I have here, without needing to be here to run it. As a band putting out our sophomore album internationally and our debut domestically, it is important that we see CD sales grow astronomically. This improves revenue in all other areas, thus allowing the creative process to go on without restraint or compromise.
What advice would you give a student who’s graduating or will graduate in the next year?
Do what you love the absolute best you can in a positive way; you will attract blessings that will exceed all of your needs.
Is there anything you wish you could come back and do again?
A few things: first, play timpani with the Wind Symphony. Second, play piano with the jazz band. Third, sing a jammin’ tune during the half-time of a basketball game.
To find out more about what Joseph is up to in California or to hear his band Better Luck Next Time, check out www.betterlucknexttime.org and www.josephjohn.net
View the archived Alumni Spotlights. Go>