MATT SHOCKLEY

By Cory Murman
For many musicians, their art is an expression of the way life is and has been. For Matt Shockley, musical expression portrays what he is hoping and becoming. From picking up his first guitar at the age of 13, Matt quickly found within those six strings the power to move audiences and change lives, including his own. From his experiences of traveling the country as a backup guitarist, playing solo concerts at the University of Georgia, producing his first album in Nashville, and playing in numerous corners of the Los Angeles music scene, Matt has found the great riches of sharing a song with a complete stranger.
The music of Matt Shockley symbolizes the journey he has taken from small-town Georgia to Los Angeles. His first EP In The Making and solo album Play Along were written in the South, reflecting upon his earliest musical experiences. Matt’s influences of rock legends culminated in two acoustic rock recordings ala John Mayer and Dave Matthews. Now, having immersed in his L.A. surroundings, Matt’s new album blends the Blues-Rock of his past with the Pop-Funk production of his present. His latest single, “What Goes Around,” mixes the hovering riffs of Hendrix and Pink Floyd over the Soul-Pop of John Legend and Mat Kearney. Combining modern Pop with the Rock of the 70s and the Pop-Rock of the late 90s, Matt’s music is sure to tickle ears and challenge minds.
Diversity and unity. Hitting bottom and holding onto hope. Commitment to the important parts of life and faith in the midst of the mundane. These themes circulate in Matt’s music just as they do in his soul every day. Understanding that the greatest things in life include risk-taking and falling flat on your face, Matt has found a unique way to express his joys while never forgetting the great depths he has traversed. Whether you are looking for a reason to get up in the morning and face life, or you just need a great musical performance, Matt Shockley’s music is sure to deliver.