Hailing from a small town in Ontario is country singer/songwriter, Matt Morson. This past September, he released his dark & heavy-hitting single, “By The River”.
Recently, I spoke with Matt about his artistry, his latest single and more.
Kyla Pearson: For those who are unfamiliar with you and your music, can you tell us a bit more about how you got your start in music? Why did you decide to pursue country music specifically?
Matt Morson: Well, I am Matt. I write music and occasionally play when they let me. I have been doing this for 7 years and love what I do. Country is not all I play or listen to, but it’s definitely is the root of all my music. I grew up listening to country and have been surrounded by the truth of country all my life.
Kyla Pearson: Your music blends southern rock, country and blues. A fan of all three, which artists from each genre would you say influenced your sound the most?
Matt Morson: We need a lot more time to get the real answer. But if I had to off the top of my head I would say this. Southern rock I love The Steel Woods. For country, I would have to say, Vince Gill. Finally blues I would have to say Otis Taylor
Kyla Pearson: In the past, you’ve helped produce and manage the logistics of music festivals. What have you learned from those experiences that you’ve applied on the business/marketing side of your artistry?
Matt Morson: Not enough! Haha! Honestly, I learned how to talk to people. Everyone and their uncle is a musician, so what makes YOU special? What makes YOU worth it? That’s what I try to apply to it. You need to find a balance between demand and truth.
Kyla Pearson: This September, you released your latest single, “By the River". Can you tell us more about the song?
Matt Morson: By The River is a song I am really proud of. It’s all of me. It’s a song I wrote a couple of years back. It’s dark and heavy but still very much country. A dark country if you will. It’s authentic and I am happy to admit that. By The River is unapologetic and raw. The story is of love & murder and the energy ebbs & flows.
Kyla Pearson: You’ve previously stated that "By The River" your “favourite to date”. Can you tell us why that is so, as well as a bit more about the songwriting & recording process behind the song?
Mat Morson: The writing was done in a hotel in Ottawa one weekend while I sat around and waited for people. I think it is my favourite because it’s me. I mean, during recording and production I truly didn’t care at all about marketability. (a recurring theme for me, unfortunately). I just wanted to make a song that I felt was true, real and raw. Just pure emotion.
Kyla Pearson: No stranger to country life and outdoorsmanship, how would you say “By the River” (and your music in general) directly reflect that? How have those experiences influenced the type of lyrical storytelling you gravitate toward?
Matt Morson: That’s a good question. I guess it’s just my opinion, but I think my lifestyle has been what’s really pushed the honesty in my music. When hunting, writing or working alone–You don’t care if you impress anyone, but rather if you get the job done right. I hope that makes sense.
Kyla Pearson: According to you, what is the ideal setting for fans to listen to the song in order to fully experience it?
Matt Morson: Live. That’s it. Music is meant to be heard live. Anyone who says otherwise should get off the stage.
Kyla Pearson: You’ve become known for your high-energy live performances across Ontario. Do you have any upcoming shows where fans can hear you play “By the River” live?
Matt Morson: Stand by. Haha. For the winter, I have a couple. More will be announced in the new year.
Kyla Pearson: Lastly, is there anything you'd like to mention?
Matt Morson: I would like to thank you for this wonderful Q and A. I know it takes time to do. Also the fans for continuing to support me. I truly appreciate every one of you.
Listen to "By The River" Now:
Stay up to Date With Matt Morson:
FB: @MattMorsonMusic
IG: @mattmorsonmusic
YouTube: @mattmorson9285
Website: www.mattmorson.com
Apple Music: Matt Morson
Spotify Music: Matt Morson
Morson, Matt. Interview. Conducted by Kyla Pearson, Oct 1 2023.
Ravens Feather Photography. “Featured: Country singer/songwriter, Matt Morson.” Photo courtesy of Matt Morson. Accessed Aug 5 2023.
Ravens Feather Photography. “Featured: Country singer/songwriter, Matt Morson.” Photo courtesy of Matt Morson. Accessed Aug 5 2023.
Ravens Feather Photography. “Featured: Country singer/songwriter, Matt Morson.” Photo courtesy of Matt Morson. Accessed Aug 5 2023.
