Tell us about yourself and your music
I am the type of musician that has a background in so many styles. I grew up singing hymns. I was in a Christian Rock band in high school. Country Music has always been home, however. I do my best to show my past and honor the tradition of country music, but also include new techniques that make modern country shows so much fun to attend.
Talk to us more about your latest release
My latest release is called “I Know a Guy” it is my 3rd single off my debut album “Hi Matt” and the first since the album was released. It was written by my friend Cam Spinks, who you may have seen on this season of the voice. Cam is incredibly talented himself and I’m honored to get to cut a song he wrote. It was the last track we recorded for the album but has amassed over 100k streams without being single, so we are making it a single for the fans.
Describe the writing and recording process
The recording process is the same way I do all my songs. Josh Bright in Boaz Alabama produces all my music. He uses some of the best session musicians you can find including guys that played in major releases for people like Luke Combs and Sam Hunt. I’m honored to have that kind of talent in my songs. After Josh and I talk through what I want for the track, he makes it happen better than I could imagine it. I get the fortune of getting to sing on such amazing tracks.
Any plans to release a video?
Any plans to hit the road?
I play over 200 shows a year. We love to play live. I’m the kind of artist that will open for anyone, anywhere that makes sense stylistically. Being an opener is so exciting for me. You get to meet and make new fans and forge relationships with other artists. There’s nothing like playing to a great crowd.
As an indie artist, how do you brand yourself and your music to stand out from the rest of the artists out there?
I think humor in country music is a lost art. We have allowed artists to tell people how cool they are in every song. I’m not particularly cool. I never have been. When I embraced this and let the humor shine, I allowed for the more serious topics to be well received. I always believe if you have fun on stage the fans will join you.
Who have you been listening to lately?
I have some amazing friends that write incredible music. Trey Lewis, Cam Spinks, Terry Adams, Clay Barker, Ella Langley, are just a few up and comers. In the mainstream I love Texas. Mike Ryan and Cody Johnson’s albums are always in my playlists. Jon Pardi and Midland are probably my favorites in the Nashville country scene.
Who are your biggest influences?
So many country artists list greats like Cash, Jennings, Jones, Haggard. While I love those artists that’s not what I grew up on. I grew up listening to the guys they inspired like Garth Brooks, Travis Tritt, Alan Jackson, and Brooks & Dunn. This album was heavily influenced by early Brad Paisley’s records though.
Tell us about your passions
My whole life through college baseball was my life. I had the pleasure of being a Division 1 athlete and my passion for the sport continues. I rarely miss a Braves game on tv. Outside of sports and music, I’m a nerd. I take deep dives into Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings fan theories.
What else is happening next in your world?
Growing my music a little at a time is always the goal. Getting added to a tour and opening for artists that I’m a fan of keeps me motivated. I have also been writing like crazy during the social distancing, so new music for the fans may come soon.
Thanks for an awesome interview, Matt Bennett
Connect with Matt Bennett
Website: http://www.mattbennettcountry.comFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/mattbennettbandInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/mattbennettbandTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/mattbennettbandYoutube: http://www.youtube.com/mattbennettband
