Joe Winters is a Chicago-based rock drummer best known as a founding member of The Steepwater Band, a hard-driving blues-rock group formed in 1998 that built a strong following through heavy touring and festival appearances. As the band’s original drummer, Winters helped shape their sound — groove-first drumming rooted in classic rock, blues, and American roots music.
The Steepwater Band’s live reputation has always been central to their identity, and Winters has stayed closely associated with that working-band approach: strong pocket, strong dynamics, and a steady, road-tested feel that supports the band’s big guitar tone and live energy.
What he’s doing now: Winters continues performing and remains active as The Steepwater Band’s drummer/percussionist. In addition to Steepwater, he also plays in another Chicago-area rock band, Furbaby — a second local project he lists alongside his Steepwater work.
Recordings / credits: The Steepwater Band (founding member/drummer), with credits reflected across the band’s catalog and music databases.
Gear: Dream; Evans, Sonor
Sources: Intrepid Artists (The Steepwater Band); Joe Winters Instagram profile (projects + gear); Steepwater Band history references and database listings.
Update: 1/22/26
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