Matthew Cue is an artist and performer based out of Detroit, Michigan but now resides in Dallas, Texas. The inspiration for his unique blend of sound comes from genres as diverse as hip-hop, soul, pop and R&B; echoing the work of influential talents such as Michael Jackson, Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole Earth Wind and Fire or Kanye West, just to mention a few. The strength of Matt's vision is in the way the energy of many different genres come together in a really unique and unforgettable sound that feels catchy, yet raw and honest.
Get to know Matthew, what he's been up to and what he's got in store for us in our latests artist Q&A:
What was the inspiration behind writing and recording your song "Freedom"?
The inspiration behind Freedom was just watching so many extremely gifted people around me get caught in the cycle of “everyday life” and wanting to remind them to use their talents. A lot of us are working jobs we hate, basically feeling unfulfilled just to get by, and I wanted to inspire people to do more than survive. I thought what if I wrote a song that’ll motivate people to go after their dreams and I found myself writing the lyrics to Freedom.
Is the song part of an upcoming release?
Yes! The song is part of an upcoming project called “Over Thinking” look for it in 2018
Describe your sound in one ramble-on sentence
My sound is a mix of hip-hop, soul, pop and R&B; basically just me adding my energy and point of view for a new relatable sound.
What's your earliest music-related memory growing up?
My earliest memory was listening to my Dad play the guitar while me and my brothers would make up freestyle songs. We were laughing, having fun , and it clicked that this was what I wanted to do with my life.
If you were to cover another band/artist's album, which would you pick and why?
Kendrick Lamar‘s Damn. Hands down this album was so artistic and I’d love to get the chance to cover his creative style.
Do you write/compose your own songs? Briefly describe your songwriting process
Yes, I do write my own material. Usually I try to capture a moment of strong emotion and I’ll freestyle while listening to a beat just letting it flow.
What has been the highlight for you in 2017? Either personally or for your music career?
For me it was actually getting back to the music. It’s a huge part of who I am and how I can express my outgoing nature. I took a break from it briefly but I missed performing, so I’m finally glad to get back to my true self.
What have you been working on recently? Can you give us a hint for whats to come in your music career?
My next big project “Over Thinking” coming out in spring of 2018. As for my career you can expect more media, videos, and live performances.
What do you like more: Performing live or recording in the studio?
I have to say performaning live wins. There’s a certain edge to watching the crowd vibe and be free to your music. It’s easier to give the fans a better listening experience.
Any embarrassing on stage moments you'd like to share? C’mon, don’t be shy.
So this is funny, one time I was preforming with my brother and the mics kept falling off the stands. Rather picking it up because it refused to stay in I just raised my voice and continued to perform. It was awkward at the time but since I don’t have any moments where I tripped off stage that’s my most embarrassing.
What's one thing people should know about you?
That a lot of my creative drive comes from wanting to make a better life and world for my kids. I try to inspire change and music is the way I try to reach out to people.
What do you enjoy doing outside of music? Does your hobby rejuvenate your creativity?
Spending time with my family, I’m a big sports fan, and I love film media. I dabble in the modeling world and actor and those two things help your creative stay active.
What do you like the most about Radio Airplay?
I like that you are huge supporters of us independent artist. You also give us a chance to network with other industry professionals and to connect interested fans, who are the most is important to any artists success.