Joan As Police Woman is the stage name of Joan Wasser, an American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for her soulful, genre-blending music that moves effortlessly between indie rock, soul, and jazz influences. Born in 1970 in Biddeford, Maine, Joan began her career in the Boston music scene as a violinist, developing a reputation for her emotional depth and instrumental versatility. She played with several bands, including the experimental rock group Dambuilders, before eventually embarking on a solo career that would define her as a unique voice in contemporary music.

Wasser's journey as Joan As Police Woman began in 2004, channeling her experiences and inner world into a compelling debut album, Real Life (2006). Critics and fans alike praised the album for its intimate, stripped-down sound, and its thoughtful blend of melancholy, resilience, and emotional honesty. The single "The Ride" showcased her ability to capture vulnerability and introspection, setting her apart from her contemporaries and drawing comparisons to artists like Nina Simone and Jeff Buckley. Her voice—simultaneously powerful and tender—became her defining instrument, though she continued to feature her skillful violin and piano throughout her work.

Wasser's subsequent albums, such as To Survive (2008) and The Deep Field (2011), further solidified her reputation as a distinctive artist unafraid to take creative risks. Her sound grew richer, adding elements of R&B, jazz, and soul, and her lyrics delved deeply into themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Over the years, Joan has collaborated with an impressive range of artists, including Lou Reed, Rufus Wainwright, and Antony and the Johnsons, each collaboration reflecting her adaptability and influence across genres.

Joan As Police Woman continues to captivate audiences worldwide with her emotive performances and fearless exploration of sound. Her work is celebrated for its authenticity and powerful, raw beauty, making her a consistently respected figure in the music industry.