E33 Harmonizing Music and Film with Joe George

Exploring the depths of creativity and music, in this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose I talked with songwriter, producer, and Emmy nominated film composer, Joe George.  Joe George Shadid makes music for a living, and it’s been a road of discovery.  We delved into Joe’s music journey from first falling in love with music, to moving to Chicago to pursue it, to film composition, and the intricacies of the creative process. 

This episode offers a captivating glimpse into Joe George’s passion for music, as he narrated his journey from gigging at bars and restaurants in Chicago to venturing into the realm of film composition. Joe George shared fond memories, reflecting on the sense of freedom and opportunity that defined his time in Chicago. His genuine enthusiasm for film music shone through as he described how the experience of watching movies with his brother igniting his profound love for cinematic soundscapes. 

A pivotal point in the conversation emerged as Joe George expounded on the challenges of entering the film composing industry, and first doing work for free.  Explaining that this may not be the best advice for today, but acknowledging that it did work for him, and it was the advice given to him at the time. His unwavering commitment to pursuing film composition served as a testament to get him work in the field. 

What stood out most was Joe George’s contemplation on artistic purpose and the intrinsic ability of music to evoke emotion and nostalgia in others. His candid introspection resonated deeply as he pondered the ultimate meaning and impact of his creative endeavors, offering a thought-provoking dialogue on the significance of simply being present and finding joy in the creative journey. 

Amidst the conversation, Joe George shared his perspectives on time management and the delicate balance between the structured and chaotic aspects of his creative process. He provided a glimpse into the ebbs and flows of creativity, emphasizing the importance of embracing moments of inspiration and creativity, unbound by specific deadlines or job requirements. Contemplation on self-doubt and the pursuit of creative fulfillment offered a raw and resounding resonance with my own personal creative endeavors. His candid acknowledgement of grappling with self-doubt and the quest to inspire others through his TikTok channel spotlighted the vulnerability and passion encapsulated in his creative pursuits. 

From commanding stages with his music to crafting evocative scores for films, illuminated the power of resilience, humility, and unwavering dedication to one’s craft. Joe George’s creative journey, punctuated by introspection and boundless passion, serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative force of artistic expression. This episode stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit of artistic expression and the enduring quest to forge one’s path in the boundless realms of creativity. As we navigate the vibrant landscape of artistic expression and the pursuit of purpose, the resonating words of Joe George offer a profound reminder of the enduring power of storytelling, creativity, and the unyielding pursuit of purpose. 

My hope is that this podcast invites us to embark on a journey of self exploration and introspection, delving into the profound narratives that define the human experience. We are reminded of the indomitable spirit and boundless creativity that define the human experience, urging us to embrace the purpose that propels us forward. Joe George’s journey serves as a poignant testament to the enduring impact of artistic expression and the enduring quest to harness creativity as a catalyst for profound connection and introspection. As we chart our paths forward, let us embrace the transformative power of purpose and creativity in our lives.

To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform.