Joe Scruggs is a retired American singer-songwriter widely acclaimed for his children's and folk music output. He was also a major personality as a children's entertainer, touring schools across America and making television appearances on shows ranging from Barney & Friends to The David Letterman Show.
Background
Joe Scruggs grew up in El Paso, Texas, making his first performances as a member of youth choirs in the Methodist Church. As a child of the 1960s, he sang in a group that performed folk songs which would influence his future compositions. Scruggs attended the University of Texas at El Paso. He later received an MA from Texas Tech University. By the 1980s, he had married and brought his brand of folk music to the kindergarten classroom, where his wife taught. His songs received the acclaim of teachers and students alike.
Career
1980s
Scruggs released his debut studio album, Late Last Night, in 1984. It featured "catchy lyrics and professional arrangements", catching the attention of the Children's Radio Network. He built upon his musical canon by releasing his next four albums in the four years following. This output netted him many awards, and got him featured on Today and The David Letterman Show. The decade ended with the release of a Christmas album.
1990s
Bahamas Pajamas released in 1997, followed by the LP that would be his last, Ants. However, Scruggs continued to perform for children nationwide and was featured in the Barney & Friends episode "The Exercise Circus!" in 1993. In the gap between Bahamas Pajamas and Ants, Scruggs released two live concert videos to heavy praise.
2000s
Scruggs partnered up with his high school friend, Pete Markham, to tour the country performing his show called the Nanny Nanny Boo Boo Revue. The creative force of Scruggs's career culminated in a musical theater piece called Not Afraid of the Dark, for which Scruggs wrote the songs. His music was arranged by Gary Powell, and together with Stephen Mills and the Ballet Austin organization Joe's fun and magical music was put to the stage.
Personal life
Scruggs has recently retired from the children's entertainment business. He currently lives with his wife and two children near Austin, Texas.
