Ely is originally from Lubbock, Texas and is part of the great tradition of Lubbock artists which includes such greats as Buddy Holly and Waylon Jennings. Along with Butch Hancock and Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Joe Ely formed the legendary Flatlanders, who have released a number of highly acclaimed albums. Joe Ely's latest release is a live CD recorded at the Cactus Caf in Austin along with accordion player Joel Guzman. The Austin Chronicle praised the CD saying "the real starsare the stories Ely tells and the magical way he transports his listeners into a distinctive space and time". Music Matters said "his songs are cinematic with vivid melodiesJoe Ely is a powerful musical presence".

Joe Ely has played his music in the company of such greats as Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, Stevie Ray Vaughn and more. He even toured with the Clash. He was asked to write songs for Robert Redford's film, "The Horse Whisperer" and a book of Ely's writings "Bonfire of the Roadmaps" was published in 2007.

Joe Ely is a Grammy award winner and last year he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Americana Music Association. He has appeared on many television and radio programs including Prairie Home Companion, David Letterman, CBS Saturday Morning, and Austin City Limits.