Behind The Lens: Re Mattei
How would you describe your music to a first-time listener?
I’d describe my music as Americana and country with a little rockin’ guitar energy, but storytelling is really at the heart of it. I’ve always loved songs that make you feel something and take you somewhere. Some of my songs come from things I’ve lived, some from people or moments I’ve encountered, and others start completely in my imagination. Musically, you’ll hear everything from traditional country influences to a little Tom Petty-style edge. If you’re listening for the first time, I’d say expect honest lyrics, memorable melodies, and songs that feel like little stories—because I really believe every person has a story, every place has a story, and every song has a story.
You're celebrating a major career milestone with a trip to the ice cream shop. What's your go-to flavor and why?
It is pumpkin pie ice cream. I hoard some in my freezer when it comes out every Fall for those special celebrations. It actually has real pieces of pie crust! Pumpkin pie reminds me of being home for the holidays. So, it feels like I’m celebrating with family with every spoonful.
What do you want fans to take away from your music?
Everyone has a story to tell. Sometimes my songs reflect happy moments in time like Momma Always Knows and sometimes life’s messy moments like Heartbreak In A Bottle. I want people to know through my songwriting lens there is no judgement. We are all just our authentic selves on life’s journey.
What about making music makes it fun for you?
There’s always a new story to write and sing with everyone I meet and every new adventure. Recently, I attended a funeral of a 99 year old woman. I had never met her, but by the time the funeral was over I felt like I knew her. I just thought, if I could touch one life like she has then my life will have been well lived. I immediately wrote a song about her. I can’t wait to share it with you all.
How do you know an idea is worth developing into a song?
I keep a list of ideas in my phone. Sometimes they are a song title, story idea, or a melody. If I am writing alone, I will share it with some people to get their input. If I am writing with others the group decides what is resonating with everyone. Lately, I try to write without an instrument and I usually am hearing a melody in my head. Later, I will pick up my guitar and figure out what I’m hearing in my head. I have found doing it that way keeps me from using the same chord progressions and keeps the melodies fresh and creative.
When do you decide to shelf an idea that isn't going to work?
I had an idea that was shelved for over 10 years. I would pull it out every now and then, but was never happy with the results. This year I was at a Tennessee Songwriters Association meeting and 5 of us decided to write a song. They liked my idea and it finally was written. A song idea will be written when it is ready.
Did you think a song was going to be less successful than it actually became?
My first single Country Love did well on country radio and actually hit #1 on one of the Indie country charts. As a new comer to radio that was a nice surprise.
What's one lyric you find fans repeating back to you?
My listeners tend to mention the stories of the songs they like more than a particular lyric. On my new album Stories Lived people have commented on really liking the story behind my song Michigan Rain.
You're creating a song for an Olympian. What would you call it and what would it sound like?
Funny you should ask that question! I recently finished writing a song during the Olympics called You Can be A Champion. It’s a ballad that gives courage to anyone trying to reach their dream and encourages them to go for the gold. The chorus builds in emotion and melodically. My hope is that it will encourage others to boldly go after their dreams even when they can’t see the finish line.
If there was a museum dedicated to your life and career, what would fans find in the gift shop? Where can fans connect with you?
A picture of me when I was 10 yrs old. I keep it in my office and recording area and it reminds me to continue living the dream this little girl started. My Buc-ee’s coffee mug. Sounds crazy right? I use it everyday. It reminds me that the American Dream is obtainable and it puts a smile on my face every time I look at that cute beaver face! My 1999 Christmas Furby. It stays in my office/studio and if I am having a down day I push on its tummy and it says "Yum" which takes me back in time and puts a smile on my face.
A Gemeinhardt flute that I played in my high school marching band. A soprano sax that I have as a keepsake from my Uncle Karl who played in a big band and was an early music inspiration for me. My two acoustic guitars that are the catalysts for all of my songs I have written: 2013 Taylor Auditorium and a 1974 bright red Ovation.
Last but not least a 1978 Stratocaster electric guitar that has traveled the world with me and has some stories that will never be told living inside it!
You can connect with me on socials and my website:
Facebook: https://Facebook.com/ReMattei
Instagram: https://Instagram.com/re.mattei
Website: https:// www.remattei.com
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