Joseph Michael Sullivan, known as Joe Sullivan, was born on November 5, 1906, in Chicago. He began his musical journey studying at the conservatory of Chicago and founded a quartet in 1923. By 1927, he joined other musicians from Chicago, such as Eddie Condon and Benny Goodman. In 1931, Sullivan moved to New York to join Red McKenzie's Mound City Blowers. He returned to New York and joined Bob Crosby's orchestra from 1936 to 1937. A severe illness paused his career for two years. Upon returning in 1939, Sullivan formed his own sextet and performed at notable venues. His career continued into the 1960s, including appearances at the Monterey Festival in 1963 and the Newport Jazz Festival. Sullivan passed away on October 13, 1971, in San Francisco.
