Joe Cross is a Writer-Producer based between his studios in Manchester (UK) and Paris (France), floating between production work and writing. Joe started his musical career as part of the cult Manchester band (We Are) Performance (album achieved no. 2 in NME’s ‘Greatest Albums You’ve Never Heard’). Having taught himself production during this period, Joe began working with fellow Mancunian artists Hurts.  

He would go on to produce and co-write half their debut album, including the international hits “Better Than Love” and “Wonderful Life”. The album would achieve gold or platinum sales around the world, including in Germany and the UK. His working relationship with the duo has endured to this day. This has endured to the extent that two versions of Hurts’ hit ‘Wonderful Life” hit the no 1 and 6 in the German charts in 2025.

In 2012, Joe met Liam Fray of Courteeners and has since produced six albums for the group; Anna (UK no 6), Concrete Love (UK no 3), Mapping the Rendezvous (UK no 4), St. Jude:Re:Wired (UK no 5) More. Again. Forever (UK no 2). Most recently, Pink Cactus Cafe (UK no 2). 

He has also contributed songwriting to some of the band’s biggest songs. In 2015, Joe officially joined the group as bassist and live musical director, enjoying festival headlines, arena tours and three 50,000 sell out shows of their own curation. 

Joe produced the Norwegian band Kid Astray’s popular debut album ‘Home Before The Dark’ and The LaFontaines’ sophomore record ‘Common Problem’ (Scottish no 9). More recently, Joe delivered an album charting 29 for The Slow Readers Club followed by their 2025 album Out of a Dream charting no 11.

Additionally, he produced the no 21 album for cult indie band Ist Ist. Their follow up record ‘DAGGER’, produced by Joe, is out February 2026.

Joe’s career as a songwriter has developed significantly over the years. He has been working extensively with former One Direction member Louis Tomlinson, having written and produced 3 anthemic songs on Louis’ #1 album ‘Faith in the Future’ including the single ‘Silver Tongues.’ Joe’s relationship with Louis is ongoing. He has also written with artists such as La Roux, Hot Milk, Orla Gartland, Lana Del Rey, Zoot Woman, Glass Caves and Larkins. 

Going forward, Joe has written and produced the forthcoming Callum Beattie album, which has already gained signifcant traction at radio. His contribution to the new Louis Tomlinson album, How Did I Get Here, features four songs.