Joe Seneca, born Joel McGhee Jr. on January 14, 1919, in Cleveland, Ohio, was a multifaceted American talent known for his contributions as an actor, singer, and songwriter. Seneca's early career was marked by his involvement with the R&B singing group The Three Riffs, which performed at upscale supper clubs in New York City from the late 1940s to the mid-1970s. As a songwriter, he achieved success with hits like "Talk to Me," sung by Little Willie John, and "Break It to Me Gently," popularized by Brenda Lee and Juice Newton.

In the 1970s, Seneca transitioned to acting, making his Broadway debut in "Of Mice and Men" alongside James Earl Jones in 1974. He continued to perform in notable productions, including "The Little Foxes" with Elizabeth Taylor and "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom," where he learned to play the trombone for his role. Seneca's film career included memorable roles such as Willie Brown in "Crossroads" (1986), Dr. Meddows in "The Blob" (1988), and appearances in "School Daze" and "The Verdict."

On television, Seneca appeared in over twenty series, including "The Cosby Show," "The Golden Girls," and "Doogie Howser, M.D." He also contributed to the PBS children's show "Sesame Street" as a writer from 1970 to 1973. Joe Seneca passed away on August 15, 1996, on Roosevelt Island, New York City, leaving behind a legacy of artistic versatility and cultural impact.