At first sight, with his acoustic guitar in hand, unwavering smile, long white hair and ample necklaces and bracelets, you would think that Joe Kidd is a West Coast hippie, straight out of the 60’s. Rather, he is a third generation Lebanese-American musician, residing here in the Detroit area. 

Last month, Kidd, along with his music partner Sheila Burke, won the prestigious Detroit Music Award for Outstanding World Music Songwriter of the Year. Burke and Kidd have been working together for a little under a year.

Burke and Kidd.

Burke says that music she produces with Kidd is multi-cultural, embraces diversity and speaks to the heart. Burke who is of Native American and Irish descent said the group’s cultural diversity allows it to provide music appeal to everybody.

“Our music is socially aware, without being political.  Spiritual, without being religious,” said Kidd. “We want to be the voice of the people who don’t have a voice; the poor, the sick, the homeless, who are holding up signs near the Southfield freeway.” 

Kidd’s grandfather was originally from Sidon, Lebanon and had his last name changed from Saab to Kidd when he immigrated to the United States. Kidd says that he has been influenced by Arabic music for years and used to own a oud, which is a stringed musical instrument, commonly used in the Middle East.

Kidd, who is a Detroit native, joined several bands in the late 1970’s, before putting his music career on hold to raise his daughter. He said that last month’s award came as a surprise, especially since he and his partner do not have a record. He also indicated that he views this award as more of a door-opener, than a sentimental recognition. 

“It means somebody out there likes what we are doing,” he said.

The duo has performed in many cities and at events across the country and is currently working on a music record. The musicians often perform for peaceful causes, and have even performed at an anti-nuke rally and a Veterans for Peace rally. 

When asked about his age, Kidd says that he is “eternal, ageless and timeless.”

“We are just old hippies who feel like teenagers,” added Burke.