Introducing… Matt Gary

It’s an exciting time for country newcomer Matt Gary. The Lenexa, KS native is ready to release his new single, “It’s On You,” to country radio.

After graduating from the University of Tampa with two degrees (yes, two!), Gary decided to follow his passion and move to Nashville, TN to pursue a career in country music, following the path of his musical influences like Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney and David Nail.

We caught up with Matt Gary to get to know him a bit. Check out our Q&A below.

Was music always a big part of your life?

Music has always been a big part of my life. Unlike a lot of other artist out there, my parents weren’t musicians or into the music scene, so I didn’t have that type of influence growing up. My passion for music developed on its own. Country music was what I was drawn to first. It was something about the realness of the stories that sucked me in. Made me feel. Made me think. Made me want to do music for a living.

When did you decide that you wanted to pursue a career in country music? Was there one moment that just solidified that for you?

There wasn’t one moment that solidified it. I’ve always been a fan of country music. The stories drew me in. Going to concerts and watching the artist, I would sit in the crowd and think, “Dang I want to do that!” I still get that feeling when I go to shows.

Who are some of your influences?

One of my biggest influences is Kenny Chesney. He is a great entertainer and really knows how to engage the crowd from a live perspective. Another influence is Keith Urban. He isn’t afraid to push the boundaries and try new things, which I think is cool. I like traditional country music, but also like other styles of music. I’ve tried with this new music to really make it a combination of the different styles I personally listen to.

How would you describe your music/sound to fans?

I think my music is a combination of all styles of music. I’m a country artist first, but have added little elements from other styles as well. For me, I want my music not to be just about one song, but all the songs. I want it to be a lifestyle. A soundtrack to those moments, good or bad, in somebody’s life.

What’s the story behind your single “It’s On You?”

It’s a song I wish I would have written. A buddy of mine knew that I was cutting and I asked him if he had any songs that would fit the vibe I was going for. He said “Yeah, I’ll send over a song we just wrote.” I listened to it once and sent him a text saying “I’m cutting it!” The song grabbed me right from the start. I could hear the production in my head. I also dug how the lyrics put the girl in charge. Makes her sound confident. Once we got into the studio and started recording it, I knew it had a chance to be the lead-off single. I’m super pumped that it is and can’t wait for people to hear it.

Are you currently working on a full album? If so, what has that process been like?

Yes, I am working on a full album. An EP will be coming early 2016 with the album following. This process has been awesome! I’ve been in Nashville for 8 years now and have been through this process before, but this time I’m doing it my way. I’m in the driver seat and co-producing alongside my producer Ilya Toshinskiy. He sees my vision. Ilya is super talented in his own right, one of the most talented in Nashville, if not the industry. He can always pull me back in if my ideas get to far out there and always gives me a hard time saying “Matt knows what he wants.” I’m grateful to have him producing this project.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given since moving to Nashville?

When I made the official move to Nashville, a producer once told me “Nobody will be as passionate about your music as you are. Get out and work cause nobody is going to make you a star.” I believe that. You have to be ready to get knocked down and get back up. Work ethic is everything.

What’s on your country music “bucket list” as an artist?

I think its on every country artist’s bucket list, but someday hope to be invited to play the Opry. To stand in the circle where so many legends have been would just be mind blowing. Another bucket list item is to play my hometown’s (Kansas City) arena “Sprint Center.” Lots of memories of seeing shows there to then standing on that stage would be awesome.

Who is your dream tour mate and why?

There are so many good artists out there today. Each one has taken a different road to get to that level. As a newcomer and on the road making my introduction, I know how much of their life they have devoted to get where they are. If I had to pick one…. I would have to say Chesney. Just because I’ve always been a fan of his music. I could also learn a lot from watching an artist of that caliber. Plus, I’m also sure it’s one hell of party!

Fans can keep up with Matt Gary on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.