Joe Schermie was an American musician best known for being the bass player for the rock band Three Dog Night. He was a skilled and versatile musician who contributed to many of the band’s hit songs during the 1970s.
Personal and Family Life
Joe Schermie was born as Joseph Edward Schermetzler on February 12, 1946, in Madison, Wisconsin. He grew up in a family involved in entertainment, as both of his parents performed in vaudeville and operated a nightclub. Joe had a sister named Judy and later moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where he developed his passion for music.
Musical Career
Starting his music journey, Joe played in various rock bands during school and performed in bar bands in Los Angeles. He was a founding member of Three Dog Night when they formed in 1968, contributing to many of their 21 hit songs. After leaving the band in 1973, he went on to establish his own group called S.S. Fools and collaborated with artists like Stephen Stills and Chuck Negron.
Death and Legacy
Joe Schermie passed away on March 25, 2002, from a heart attack at the age of 56 in Los Angeles, California. His talent and influence as a bass player remain remembered through the enduring music of Three Dog Night and his various collaborations throughout his career.
Filmography
| Type | Title | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Actor | Three Dog Night: One, Version 2 | Joe Schermie | 1969 |
| Actor | Three Dog Night: One | Joe Schermie | 1969 |
| Soundtrack | The Magnificent Cowboys | Writer: “Fire Eater” (uncredited) | 1971 |