Formula Indie Sessions _ Interview with Mattie Rose
What is your earliest memory connected to music?
I used to sing along to a Disney princess CD in the back of my mom’s car at three years old! My aunt pointed out that I should do vocal lessons, and I’ve been singing ever since.
How did your passion for creating music begin?
I’ve always been drawn to anything musical. Choir, musical theater, songwriter, etc. I started really getting into songwriting at the age of 16 when I was given my first guitar by my parents.
What’s the story behind your current music project?
I am working on releasing a duet titled “Neon Has A Way.” Originally, it was written by my duet partner, Brett Penington, as a solo performance. He pitched it to me as a duet, and we turned it into something brand new. I have fallen in love with Brett’s songwriting style, and I cannot wait for everyone to do the same.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?
Hmmm, this is hard. I’d say it’s the love child of Patsy Cline and Susan Tedeschi.
What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music?
Honestly… one thing you’ve learned is to stop pretending to be someone I’m not. I have tried following the pop-country standards, but I never felt connected to what I was writing, and neither did my audience. I’ve found that the more honest and vulnerable you are with songwriting and production, the more the audience can find a connection. For me, I pull from blues, jazz, 60s, and 70s country and soft rock. I’ve found that’s where my mind and soul feel most at home.
What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process?
All I need is a guitar and an idea. Nothing fancy.
Which indie artist or song are you loving right now?
I discovered an indie artist from Wales at Mirror Mirror in Nashville, Tennessee. Her name is Hannah Grae, and she is AMAZING. Her sound is so fresh, theatrical, and fun. She definitely deserves more spotlight than she’s getting
How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?
Both my struggles and my successes have influenced my songwriting and artistry. Coming up with new hooks, lines, and even melodies is an everyday occurrence. Not just because I love it, but because my mind picks up on my emotions and gets the creative juices flowing.
What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work?
I hope they feel real and raw emotion. Where it’s a feeling of vengeance that comes from “Snake”, longing that comes from “Still Gone”, or sensuality that comes from “Neon Has A Way”, I simply hope that my music can be a safe space for everyone.
What’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is “comparison is the thief of joy.” This holds true for any aspect of life, but for me, it serves as a necessary reminder. The music industry is full of comparisons like “why don’t I sound like that” or “I wish I had as many followers as that person.” And the only things we can do is remind ourselves that YOU are THE ONLY YOU out there. I like to think of it like this. If I were supposed to be like “Jane Doe”, then I would’ve been born Jane Doe!
What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at?
OH THERE ARE SO MANY! At the moment, I would love to be a part of the Two Step Inn festival in Georgetown, TX. It’s an iconic festival in a place that’s very near and dear to my heart. A big part of my childhood was spent in Georgetown, TX.
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
If I could sing with any artist, it would be one of my big three: Patsy Cline, Keith Whitley, or Billy Joel.
Where can our listeners follow and support your music? (Website,Spotify, IG, links)
My music is available on all streaming platforms under the name Mattie Rose or on my website mattierosemusic.com
Looking toward the future, what’s your dream for the next chapter of your musical journey?
My dream for this next chapter is to be on the road more and create true, genuine relationships with fans all over Texas and the Southwestern states.
What do you hope listeners will discover about you along the way?
I hope listeners discover that I am a complete geek who just happens to LOVE music more than anything.
