When asked, Maeson discussed that the name of the title is drawn from his personal evolution from a teenager to an adult. “When I turned 18, life really started beating me down… I tried to compensate with drugs and parties and just generally being a dumbass.” Fortunately, he made it through this tumultuous period. Through the turmoil, he noted, he lost a version of himself that he doesn’t think he’ll ever get back, thus, the proverbial death of Matt Maeson. On the topic of inspiration, Maeson noted how important his faith has been throughout his life and music endeavors. His faith is extremely important to him, as he spoke about his selfproclaimed “unconventional relationship” with God. A majority of his songs reflect his unorthodox relationship with faith and God, and the struggles that have resulted. Maeson’s inspirations for music is undoubtedly unique, and so too is his sound. Raw and troubled, his sound stands apart from a lot of other artists in the industry. His emotional and story-telling lyrics partnered with his soulful voice create this distinctive style that helped push his success. “When I write something personal, it’s easy to give it all I’ve got and luckily God gave me a cool voice to do it with.” This style is reminiscent of various artists whom he’s found a lot of inspiration in. Johnny Cash, Jeff Buckley, and Andy Hull were three
52
of Maesons’ favorite artists while growing up. Highly intrigued by their ability to tell stories through lyrics, Maeson referred to them as “prolific storytellers.” His childhood admiration for these artists followed into his adult life. Maeson noted how he always wanted to write songs like theirs, “songs that make you feel emotion.” Music is Maeson’s lifeline and emotional release– “it’s the only thing that ever made real sense to me.” Throughout his life, music was something he constantly could depend on and control in his life. Additionally, music offered him an escape and catharsis. Without music, he noted, he’s not sure who he’d even be in life. Maeson’s music is an honest reflection of his life and experiences. Raw and exposed, his music reflects the troubles and tribulations that he’s met throughout his journey in life. Music, for Maeson was a means of coping with his emotions. Beyond its personal cathartic capacity, his music has reached audiences around the world. Audiences have connected to his authentic and candid lyrics partnered with his soulful sound. Maeson will be joining Jaymes Young on his Feel Something tour this summer. What’s beautiful about music is that it can be so personal and individual to an artist, yet offer comfort and emotional support for audiences far and wide.