Introducing Matt Zaddy: A Journey of Passion, Soul, and the Art of Music
Published on TRK TLNT
How Matt Zaddy Got Started: A Lifelong Passion for Music
Matt Zaddy’s love for music began at a very young age. Growing up surrounded by a diverse range of sounds, he started playing music at just 5 years old. With a father who exposed him to more music than most people hear in a lifetime, Matt quickly developed a fascination for the art form.
By the age of 8 or 9, he began writing his own songs on the piano, and soon after picking up the guitar in his early teens, he was creating music with both instruments. As Matt’s passion for songwriting deepened, he realized that music was not just a hobby, but his true calling.
A defining moment came during his time at the National Music Camp of Canada in Orillia, ON, where he studied jazz guitar. Every night, the camp faculty—composed of renowned jazz musicians and teachers—would perform for the students. It was during one of these performances, when the legendary Kirk McDonald was playing a sax solo, that Matt experienced something truly special. He could feel the communication between the musicians, the subtleties of their improvisation, and it was in that moment that Matt knew he wanted to dedicate his life to music. Time seemed to stop, and he felt a profound connection to the art form that would shape his future.
Matt Zaddy’s Sound: A Fusion of Folk Rock, Rhythm & Blues, and Canadiana
Describing his sound, Matt Zaddy blends folk rock, rhythm & blues, and Canadiana into a style all his own. His music brings to mind artists like James Taylor meeting Leon Bridges, or Neil Young collaborating with Maroon 5. Each track is unique, with some songs leaning more toward folk, while others embrace the soulful rhythms of rhythm & blues.
What sets Matt’s music apart is its visceral quality and raw honesty. His songs feel like conversations—intimate, genuine, and deeply personal. There’s a sense of being right there with him, as though you’re in the room experiencing the music live. Matt’s songwriting is deeply rooted in the lessons he’s learned, the passions he holds dear, and the ups and downs of life, love, hardship, and redemption. His music resonates with hope for the future, giving listeners a sense of connection and comfort.
Proud Achievements: Sharing the Stage with Music Legends
Throughout his career, Matt Zaddy has had the privilege of sharing the stage with some of the most iconic names in Canadian music. He has opened for Jim Cuddy, The Trews, 5440, Cowboy Junkies, Sam Roberts, Tom Cochrane, and K’Naan—experiences that have helped shape him as an artist and contributed to his continued growth.
However, what Matt is most proud of is the ongoing evolution of his music. He continues to improve and push boundaries with every project, believing that his best work is still ahead of him. This commitment to growth and artistry is what fuels his passion for creating music that matters.
What’s Next for Matt Zaddy: New Music, New Horizons
Currently promoting his new single, "Far Too Long," Matt Zaddy is excited for what the future holds. A new music video for the song will be released in January, and Matt is already hard at work on a new record, slated for recording in 2025. In the lead-up to the album’s release in late 2025, Matt plans to release a series of singles, each reflecting his artistic evolution and the new ideas he’s eager to share.
Matt’s excitement for his upcoming projects is palpable, and he can’t wait to bring his new material to life. With so many ideas in the works, fans can look forward to more captivating music from this talented artist.
Stay tuned for more updates from Matt Zaddy and be sure to check out his latest single, "Far Too Long." The best is yet to come.
