When G Matthews calls herself an independent artist, she means a whole lot more than how her music gets released. You can hear her strength, individuality and unfettered spirit in every song.
The Southern California native brings together alternative rock with street-smart pop and irresistible rhythms, creating an unshakable foundation for her heartfelt lyrics. It’s a sound that could only have grown from the Golden State while being uniquely G.
G recently made the leap to creating her own original music, so now fans can hear her journey for themselves in songs like “Backtrack,” “Chasing Happy” and “Judge Me Not” from her debut LP, Chasing Happy. You can also catch her in action around Los Angeles while she brings her inimitable live experience to venues including the world famous Whisky a Go Go, The Viper Room, and The Mint.
In this interview, we chat with G about her influences, newest project, and more.
Full Q&A, links, and streams below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into G Matthews, the artist and your music. What attracted you to pop-rock?
I was drawn to genre pop-rock because I like the mixture of the two; being able to do something on a mainstream and popular level whilst incorporating classic rock or even alternative rock vibes. It’s kind of like mixing your two favorite flavors together. You get the best of both worlds.
How long have you been creating and sharing your music with the public?
I have been creating and sharing my music for a good solid two years now. But there was this one time I wrote a rap song to a guy I was dating; in order for him to notice that I was unhappy with our relationship. Does that count as sharing to the public (hahaha)?
Who or what influences your playing and/or writing? Also, what motivates you to keep going?
A lot of my past life experiences influence my songwriting. Sometimes it’s hard to talk about…But the fact that I’m able to use singing/songwriting as an outlet is what motivates me to keep on going. It’s nice to be able to share my stories on a different level.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new LP, Chasing Happy? Creatively or otherwise?
WIth this album, Chasing Happy, I wanted to explore my vocal range and challenge my ability to be raw and vulnerable with my audience.
What was the last song you listened to?
The last song I listened to today was a song called ‘Bridges’ by Broods.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
Hhhmmm… I prefer CDs because I like seeing the artwork in the cases.
Somehow, I feel like this is a trick question to see what generation I belong to (hahaha)!
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I’m usually on Google Play when I’m streaming music. And that’s probably because that is where most of my music is and I’m too lazy to move over to another host for music.
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what are one or two of the biggest challenges you face when trying to attract listeners to your music?
My biggest challenge with trying to attract listeners to my music is my genre. When I tell people that I’m a singer they immediately assume I sing R&B. If people continue to judge a book by its cover, when it comes to me they will always end up surprised.
Do you gig, tour or perform? Do you ever live stream? Where can music lovers see you live?
I do gig locally around Los Angeles. And recently was able to perform in New York and soon Seattle. I have done a few live stream performances on my Facebook page.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?
The best place to connect with me would be on my Instagram page (gmatthewsmusic) or Snapchat if you’re daring (justgmatthews) . I have a website www.GMatthewsMusic.com and that is where you can stay up to date with shows, music and press.
Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?
Last thoughts… now that this interview is over I can go eat a cupcake
Shout outs… HI MOM (insert smiley face)
Words of wisdom… Be yourself because that’s best!
Thank you for your time and interest!
XoXoX
