Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew Earley.
Hi Matthew, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hi my name is Matthew Earley, an artist/creative out of the twin cities metro area. Since a young age I have been experimenting and exploring both writing and music creation. My main medias of art include free verse poetry and hip hop music. I also play guitar and sing.
Growing up I learned more about music through listening to the radio, and CDs that me or my two older siblings purchased. Some of my first albums ranged from Blink-182 and other punk rock bands; all the way to Nas’ classic Stillmatic.
Attending concerts and tours in my adolescence cemented in me my love and aspiration for performance and creativity in general. I have been ebbing and flowing between writing poetry and recording hip-hop music since early high-school.
I started my journey of releasing music publicly with an EP titled “Dream Vivid” back in 2016. Since then I’ve released several more projects including a full length album titled “Living Blind”; both under the stage name of AfterThought
Now, at 34, I have bundles of poetry and notebooks filled with prose. I’m still working on new music, individually and with other artists. I’ve made a habit of writing several times a week and enjoy sharing my craft on social media platforms.
My main purpose for writing is focusing on self-development, honest reflection, and the movements of nature. I.e. things that stem from the soul.
What separates me from other artists is my content is organic, original, and includes a lot of humility..
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My road in life has been challenging in a few ways. I was diagnosed with major depressive disorder my junior year of highschool and have gone through the wringer in terms of living with mental illness.
For about 7 years 2012-2018 I lived with the daily reminder that I would likely struggle with depression for the entirety of my life. Fortunately for me I have been properly medicated and mostly functional during this long stretch.
Late in 2018, I was introduced to a church where, through the pastors guidance and power of God, I was graced with a new beginning. One night we met for prayer service and was guided word for word through a deliverance prayer. That night something tangibly shifted inside me and allowed me to start taking steps towards healing and recovery.
It’s been a long journey since, in fact, I would compare this healing process to relearning how to walk again. My mind has been through so much and the journey to wholeness was a big one. It has included a move to Arizona to live and recalibrate, working several different professions to learn and explore my capabilities first hand, and of course continuing to honor myself through the creative process of writing and music.
One thing that always brought me hope and a sense of solidarity throughout was my ability to express the trials I have endured through poetry and hip-hop music. If you choose to listen I do not doubt you will hear the threads of my journey in the lyrics.
Depression has been my biggest obstacle, but growing despite it, and healing internally has brought about so much joy and gratitude for my life now.
Music and poetry is my gift I use to reciprocate that back to the world, and it’s expression I use to tell my unique story.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Previously stated, I have worked in several different positions, and made it a goal to learn from each one.
While living in Phoenix I worked as an in home caregiver, it was here that I helped elderly men who had dementia/Parkinson’s disease. I exercised empathy, patience, and strength to give these individuals a fuller day and brighter end to their lives. This job was a good fit for me, and I am extremely proud of the impact I was able to make. I had a total of 4 clients, 3 of whom passed away in my time with them. It takes a lot of self awareness to live alongside someone who needs extra care, but also requires the balance of independence and individuality. I believe my sense of empathy and resilience from living my own struggle was a great asset to each client I worked with.
Currently, and for the last several years following my return to Minnesota, I’ve resumed my work in carpentry and home renovation. It’s another area where I have sharpened skills as a handyman and someone useful with tools. Empathy and care has less of a placeholder in this career path, but I still manage to enjoy myself and sneak some in when the opportunity arises.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Even at 34, I feel as though I’ve lived a very full life. I’ve lived in multiple places, worked in several fields of interest, and kept the cord of poetry and music running throughout it all. If you find yourself in a dark place, use your resources available and take no shame in asking for help. Life is innately beautiful and sometimes requires discovery.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Poetic4existence.blogspot.com
- Instagram: @mattjearley
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JerryCurl34
- Soundcloud: https://Www.Soundcloud.com/beyondhumanidea
