To know me is to love me…

 

Joseph “Jo-Jo” Bernard Clarke was born in Richmond, Virginia on February 7, 1991. 

As a young child Joseph has always had a passion for music. Anything with music 

would immediately grab his attention and make him smile. He always admired 

groups such as The Clark sisters, Kurt Carr and the Kurt Carr Singers. His 

imagination would run wild thinking of the day he could sing, direct and interact with 

a choir. 

At the early age of 13 he was given the opportunity to be the Assistant Director of 

the Wilder Middle school choral program. He coached and directed the 7th & 8th grade 

choirs. This was just the tip of the iceberg of doors that would open for him. 

Joseph realized he could make a difference in his church and decided to create a 

pre-teen youth group, Radical Praise at Richmond Christian Center in Richmond, 

Virginia. By the time he turned 15 he was the Youth Choir Director and the powerful 

ministry of “Radical Praise” grew to include teens and young adults from all over 

Richmond.

His professional career began at 16 when he was hired as the Vocal Coach, 

Arranger and Choreographer at Hopewell High School. During his time at Hopewell, 

he created a vison for the Female Intuition show choir & Unlimited Voices group. He 

worked tirelessly to ensure all members had the support and resources they needed 

to be successful. This included one on one vocal coaching, after school and 

weekend practices. During his time with Hopewell the groups won over 18 awards 

including best vocals, choreography, soloist and grand champion. 

In 2011, he noticed a local church had an opening for the music ministry. He 

pursued the opening and became “Da Hype” Youth Choir Director at St. Paul’s 

Baptist Church. This gave Joseph the platform to use all his skills; teaching, music 

arrangement and choreography to develop the youth to feel empowered and 

supported. The choir quickly grew from 8 to 70+ members in a couple of months. Not 

only was he the Music Director but he became a mentor and truly invested his time 

and energy to be their leader. This opportunity grew to include directing the 

Women’s Choir and serving as the Worship Leader.

Joseph realized his passion extended to vocal coaching and in 2013 he started 

Clarke Vocal Coaching LLC (CVC). This provided an opportunity to combine his 

classical training, vocal expertise and mentoring to help others perfect their gift. He 

has coached over 85 students and is currently a vocal coach at Clover Hill High 

School in Midlothian, Virginia.

Joseph is also a member of the talented trio “Resound” based out of Richmond, 

Virginia. Resound made an appearance on Good Morning America and The 

Christian Broadcast Network (CBN). They have ministered on stage and/or sang 

background for Tye Tribbit, Johnathan Nelson, Byron Cage & Kurt Carr. Resound is 

currently working on their debut project. 

 

In the fall of 2015 he accepted the position as Director of the Black Awakening 

Gospel Choir at Virginia Commonwealth University. It is his mission to take them to 

the next level!

Joseph is humbled by every opportunity to share his passion for music. He is known 

for his strong roots in Gospel music but his classical training adds a distinct sound to 

his teaching style, arrangement and music. He has organized and coached classical 

workshops for youth and adults across Virginia and directed several musical groups. 

However, his desire is to serve the Lord in every way possible and now it is time to 

share his gift with the world. 

Professional Experience:

 The Black Awakening Gospel Choir Director

 St Peter’s Baptist Church Youth Choir Director

 Clover Hill High School Vocal Coach & Music Arrangement

 RESOUND Group Member

 CEO of Clarke Vocal Coaching LLC

 St. Paul’s Baptist Church Worship Leader & Music Director

 Hopewell High School Vocal Coach, Choreographer & Music Arrangement