Joss Baselli, born Giuseppe Ottaviano Basile on September 19, 1926, in Somain, France, was a renowned French accordionist known for his elegant virtuosity. His parents, Italian immigrants, ran a café where Baselli began his musical journey, receiving his first accordion at age eight. By his late teens, he was playing semi-professionally and participating in musical competitions. After World War II, Baselli moved to Paris in 1950, where he became a prominent figure in the French music scene, known for his work in the bal musette style.

In the 1950s, Baselli gained fame as a soloist and accompanist, notably for the singer Patachou, whom he accompanied on tours in France and the United States. During his time in the U.S., he recorded over thirty albums under the name Jo Basile, selling more than four million copies. His recordings often featured instrumental versions of popular French and Italian tunes, characterized by high-quality performances.

Baselli's career included collaborations with notable artists like Barbara and the foundation of the Académie de l'accordéon in France. He was married to Josette Viseur, the daughter of accordionist Gus Viseur, and was the father of drummer Pascal Baselli. Joss Baselli passed away on September 5, 1982, in Mâcon, France, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by an annual accordion performance award bearing his name.