INTERVIEW: Parker Matthews — Music Musings & Such

INTERVIEW:

Parker Matthews

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FROM Italy…

it is over to L.A. for a chat with Parker Matthews. The Pop artist tells me about his new single, Hit and Run, and how he manages to balance a contemporary, accessible sound with something unique – he talks about his experiences of being bullied and why it has made him more determined.

Matthews discusses albums and artists who are important to him; whether there are any gigs locked down; whether he gets time to chill away from music – and, more importantly, whether new material is coming down the road.

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Hi, Parker. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey. I'm doing great. How are you? My week has been super-busy, but good!

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

What’s up, guys? I'm Parker Matthews.

Hit and Run is your new song. Can you explain how the song came together – what started the ball rolling?

Hit and Run came from the idea of me wanting to give someone more than a one-night stand.

It is a contemporary Pop song but not polished, needlessly, for the mainstream. Did you work hard to ensure it had some commercial appeal but kept its edge and unique flavour?

Yes. I wanted to song to have some edge to it while still being able to be looked at from a commercial eye.

What comes next in terms of material? Will we see an E.P. later this year?

So; I am going to be releasing a lot of material this year and am going with standalone singles, because I want them each to stand on their own.

Talk to me about your experiences with bullying. Did you face a lot of torment growing up at all? Did that compel you to align with anti-bullying and suicide-prevention charities?

I did. Growing up was a terrible time for me and going to school was something I dreaded each and every day. However, learning that it truly does get better has influenced me to grow and align with several suicide prevention groups.

Obviously; supporting the L.G.B.T.Q. community is a big thing for you. Do you think a lot of artists in the community are overlooked because of their sexuality?

I think the idea of artists being overlooked because of their sexuality is becoming less and less as we, as a country, progress.

Which musicians did you grow up around? When did music come into your life?

I grew up being inspired by so many artists, especially my hometown girl, Christina Aguilera. Music is something that has touched me ever since I can remember. It truly saved my life.

Is Los Angeles a great place to make music? How important are the people in terms of your music and ambitions?

L.A. is a great place for music. Really, it's between L.A. and N.Y.C. but, for me, the weather out here had me sold! Also; it's great to go to the beach and write, and also, the people I've added to my team out here have really made the process amazing.

Do you have any gigs lined up? Where are you heading?

I am set to perform at a few Pride’s this summer. More info to come soon!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I want to engage with as many fans as possible; really grow as an artist over this year and tell the world my story.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

I think my favorite memory is a writing session I had and during that night. I was sitting in the same chair as (Lady) Gaga when she uses that studio. That was truly an inspiring moment!

If you could select the albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

For sure, Stripped by Christina Aguilera

Because every single song on that album has such an incredible message behind it.

Really; any of Sia's albums, because she takes most other songs other artists turned down and makes a masterpiece out of them!