You might be needing new music and entertainment to listen to during this quarantine since we’re about a whole month into it. We have your solution! Rising musician, Finn Matthews just released his brand new single “Into The Open.” Matthews voice and beats makes his music irresistible, such as songs ‘Catching Fire’ which is one of his strongest singles. Matthews is on his way to become a heartthrob in the industry and ECHO had the chance to chat with Matthews about his new single.
You’re getting ready to release your new song “Into The Open” on the 17th. Describe the sound and meaning behind the song. What was the creative process like?
The song is about love, but it’s not a love song. It’s about loving yourself and understanding your purpose as a human. It’s a very introspective song which for me highlights a bunch of thoughts I’ve had about life, the world, and my personal identity. I myself have struggled with finding identity and fulfillment so I hope that this song can inspire those kinds of conversations to be had and bring attention to the importance of having a sense of purpose to feeling truly happy. The song came to me in a totally random way. I made the beat before I had any lyrics. As soon as I started writing I knew exactly how I wanted the whole record to sound. The interaction between the energy of the verse and the intense space of the chorus was really important to me. I wanted the chorus to feel like you’re entering a dream world that feels surreal and infinite — then you’re brought back to reality when the second verse comes in. I wrote the song with Elijah Blake, who is one of the most talented songwriters I’ve ever worked with. It was a super interesting process that happened pretty effortlessly.
I love the artwork for the single, what inspired you to create that artwork, how does the artwork symbolize the single?
Thank you! When I was brainstorming ideas for the artwork I had the idea to sit on my roof. I captured it in a way that felt infinite with no real reference point to reality; symbolizing our infinite potential. Flipping the photo upside down was something that I tried when I was designing it and it made it feel much more open. It gives me the feeling that there is no up or down, and everything just exists within that realm.
How has your sound evolved since starting to release music back in 2017?
My music has made almost a complete 180 since then. I love some of that music but I hadn’t had much life experience at the time, so a lot of it wasn’t as personal to me as I would’ve wanted. I also didn’t yet know who I was as a person or as an artist at that time.
A key turning point for me is when I felt confident enough in my writing and production skills that I could create entire songs on my own and with that I made a ton of music and explored lots of genres that helped me find my sound. For the new record I’ve pulled a lot of influence from RnB, hip-hop and blues/jazz as well. Everything on this record and beyond is extremely personal to me; a snapshot of a period of my life and the way I felt.
What’s your writing process like, what do you do to go into a writing process clear minded?
I don’t have a specific writing process. Almost all of my songs come to me at random times, if I’m out, I’ll record the idea on my phone. Most of the time it’s just when I’m messing around on guitar or making a beat. I almost never go into a session trying to make a certain kind of song because I’ve found it never works out that well. I just let the music flow out of me.
What have you been doing to stay creative during quarantine?
It’s really important for me and my creativity to not put pressure on myself to make music. I’ve been taking the time to think, watch movies and just reflect. I’ve written a few songs since the quarantine but I like to do other things as well to keep myself inspired. One thing I always try to remember is that I need to live my life and have experiences first and the music will come.
What’s the first thing you’re looking forward to doing once quarantine is over?
I’m dying to go to the beach with my friends.
If you could set up a fan in a setting for them to listen to your music what setting would that be?
Ideally, it would be at a show with people they love so they can experience it together and really connect with the music. One of the most beautiful parts of music is that it brings people together and some of the best memories we have are with the people we love.
What can we expect from you next after this single?
I’m currently finishing my debut album. I’m releasing it sometime this year. I’m also planning on doing some live shows after the COVID-19 outbreak settles. I’m very excited for what’s to come 🙂
What’s one quote you’ve heard in life that you want to ECHO out to fans?
“We accept the love we feel we deserve”
I’ve always loved this quote from the movie ‘Perks of Being a Wallflower.’
I really connected with it because it’s so true to my life. I think a lot of people don’t recognize the amount of power they have over their destiny. If you want something, whether it’s love, a career, anything, you have to believe you deserve it. If you don’t, then when the opportunity comes, you might not notice it or pursue it and it will pass you by. This is why I believe so much in manifestation. If you truly believe you are meant to do something, you will be much more likely to end up in the position to do it.
Take a listen to “Into The Open” now!