The origins of See Joe Smile are in the Ottawa Valley, west of Ottawa Centre, in a suburb named Kanata. It was in the land of telecommunication companies, strawberry farms, and Ottawa Senators hockey that the red-haired Joe Cousineau learned to drum, play piano, sing, and write songs. After years of practice, prayer and performance, playing in basements, clubs, community centres and church halls with his high school pals, Joe created the moniker “See Joe Smile”.

The act debuted in the fall of 2006, and over the next two years, a variety of friends would be asked to join Joe on stage during his sets, playing original material and cover songs.

From 2009-2011, See Joe Smile became more than a solo moniker for a red-haired pop/rock pianist. It became the banner under which 5 talented musicians would present their upbeat rock tunes. With songs like “Bent Out Of Shape” and “Canadian History”, See Joe Smile entertained and delighted crowds with sing-along choruses, tight harmonies, and toe-tapping beats. Their on-stage banter was witty and silly, revealing the friendly and unique personalities of each band member.

In 2012, band members moved off in different directions to pursue other professional, educational and personal goals, although they do get together from time to time. During the following years, Joe’s musical contributions were directed towards developing a music curriculum and leading music groups at ASLA, leading music ministry at St. Monica’s and St. Augustine’s parishes, and trying his hand in musical theatre, performing for local theatre group ASNY.
Now, carrying a new collection of originals and covers, Joe is putting out into the deep and sharing his songs and stories, going wherever the wind takes him.

An evening of See Joe Smile tunes is a lot like a great mix CD. There’s a delicious variety of songs, originals and covers, with smiles, stories and sing-alongs sprinkled in along the way.


Come on out and…