Chase Matthew’s Musical Journey
Chase Matthew, known for his hit “Darlin’,” has gained traction on country radio by infusing a pop element into his music.
Evolution of His Sound
Longtime supporters will recognize the familiar themes and sounds from his Chase album, including tracks like “Drives My Truck,” a vibrant love song. There’s a noticeable uplift in his energy, as if he’s now performing with a smile instead of a scowl.
Redefining Authenticity in Country Music
The idea that authenticity in country music means “Never Changed” is a misconception. For instance, Jason Aldean’s mid-’90s work was quite traditional, while Miranda Lambert moved from a fiery debut to fame with more vulnerable songs like “House That Built Me.” Walker Hayes also distanced himself from his early, more generic releases.
Acknowledging His Past Work
Unlike many artists, Matthew embraces his earlier music. His 2022 album, Born for This, released under Ryan Upchurch’s Holler Boy Records, is one he encourages fans to revisit.
Intentional Focus and Brighter Arrangements
Matthew describes his first full-length album as one of his best works. He collaborated with co-producer Austin Shawn to create more energetic arrangements rather than moody ones. His addition of “pop” elements is not a shift to pop music but rather a decision to brighten his sound and showcase his vocals more effectively.
Looking Forward
Matthew views the title of his album, Chase, as more than just his name—it’s a reminder to pursue his dreams. He has faced demons from a tough past, including addiction and the murder of his best friend. Despite his challenges, he focuses on the future, aiming to release new music by 2026.
Podcast Appearance
Chase Matthew will guest on the latest episode of the Taste of Country Nights, On Demand podcast, with an audio version featuring Jackson Dean set to be released on Friday.
