Today we’d like to introduce you to Matt Woods.
Hi Matt, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started playing guitar and performing professionally in 2002, after only about 6 months of picking up a guitar for the first time. I have played about 100-150 live shows per year since 2002, recorded 7 albums under my own name and provided guitar or vocals on countless other studio recordings for other artists. I try to maintain a heavy schedule of work and continue to move toward my goals of being a well-respected member of my music community, and hopefully, eventually gain some national recognition for what I do.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It has been anything but smooth!! There have been great things along the way…getting to know people all over the county and building a network of friends and new family, but for the most part its a very difficult grind. There are long stretches away from my home and family and I’m often traveling long distances to play for rooms where I’m often just background music, or worst case even considered an inconvenience by staff and patrons of establishments that hire live music. Obviously, there are some bright spots but it’s a constant struggle to get people to listen in a sea of other entertainment options and distractions. Fortunately, I decided a long time ago, that since I’m the one putting in all the work, I will do this thing for myself. It’s who I am at this point, and I really don’t have any choice but to continue, despite the obstacles.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a roots based guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer. I suppose I’m known mostly for my guitar playing, which is what I am most passionate about. I always try to be true to myself and express myself honestly through music, regardless of what is trendy or what others may think. That is something I’m very proud of. I am also proud of the fact that I have a great family life and for over 20 years I have been able to maintain a music career and a full time career outside of music to support my family.
Any big plans?
I plan to play as many gigs and build as many relationships in my music community as possible! Hopefully keep working with other artists and releasing new music to a wider audience.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.mattwoodsmusic.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/mattwoodsrootsmusic
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/mattwoodsrootsmusic
Image Credits
Sophia Chesney
Jen Taylor
Darren Shultz
