For Joe Buscema, music has always been a driving force, a purpose, and a lifelong commitment to the art of storytelling. His journey began at just four years old, electrified by the first chords of CCR’s “Down on the Corner” echoing through his family home. That moment ignited a flame that would fuel decades of creativity, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to the music industry.
By age 7, Buscema had mastered the guitar, followed closely by the drums at 9, and by 11, he was starting his first band. Raised in Toronto’s vibrant punk rock community, he not only immersed himself as an artist but also quickly delved into the world of promotion, booking his friends’ bands as opening acts at major shows.
Buscema’s early eye for talent was unmistakable. While most teenagers were discovering music online, a memorable night on MySpace introduced him to Abandon All Ships, a band that would become his gateway into the professional music business at just 17 years old.
Initially managing logistics as a tour manager, Joe dedicated himself fully to artist representation. For the past 11 years, Joe Buscema has built a reputation as a trusted architect of artistic careers, known for discovering and supporting emerging talent across all genres. His roster includes names such as Late Night Drive Home, Ryan Woods, Bearings, Say Anything, Set It Off, The Dangerous Summer, Say We Can Fly, Like Pacific, Locket, and many others.
Buscema’s hands-on approach, encompassing artist development, creative direction, business strategy, and execution, has made him a key behind-the-scenes figure dedicated to helping artists achieve their dreams.
Today, his primary focus is late night drive home, an alternative band from El Paso, Texas, which recently surpassed 100 million streams with their hit song “Stress Relief.” With performances at major festivals like Coachella, Austin City Limits, and Shaky Knees, in addition to signing with Epitaph Records, the band’s momentum is a testament to Buscema’s patient and visionary guidance.
Even in his mid-thirties, his philosophy remains refreshingly simple: “It starts and ends with the music.” After decades of experiencing all aspects of the industry, from the stage to the studio to the boardroom, Joe Buscema continues to help create the next generation of defining voices.
