Matthew Primous

 

Known as a R&B / soul artist with an enigmatic side, Matthew Primous's new single ‘A Ride’ has exploded on radio and put this R&B / soul artist on the world map.

There is something special happening with Matthew Primous, the talented R&B / soul artist out of Rochester, New York. A firm believer in the time-honored tradition of composition and careful attention to detail, Matthew Primous's work demonstrates how personal and affecting music can be when the right elements come together. This legitimacy is discernible from other angles. He has a deep understanding of the techniques and traditions of the R&B / soul genre which is perhaps why the critics had this to say about his award-winning work: ‘Matthew Primous' heartfelt ode to the girl of his affections shows strong melodic instincts and songcraft; his sincerity is palpable on this raw but promising track.’ Reporter Blake Wright recently caught up with this talented artist to learn more about his unique story and his plans for the future.

BLAKE: As an artist on the rise, what is one thing you are most excited about and one thing you are most afraid of happening in your career?
MATTHEW PRIMOUS: I am most excited about the buzz around my music. I like how people are starting to get used to my music and I like the way it makes them feel. I believe this music is meant to last and I will do my best to keep it real and relevant. I am most afraid of losing the spark that got me into music. I believe that I must maintain my credibility by writing songs about love and expressing love to show my fans that my music is real with real feelings.

BLAKE: Your song’A Ride’ is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
MATTHEW PRIMOUS: My initial reaction was overjoyed. I was very excited about hearing my song playing all over the world. It made me feel very proud and I will cherish that memory. I was reminded of what an A&R Executive told me, that the song will change the genre and I believe I did.

BLAKE: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
MATTHEW PRIMOUS: I really was writing about a girl that I would like to ask out and tell her all the things that I would like to do with her. It was my way of asking a girl out on a date. And by girl, I mean a woman. I wanted to show the nice and welcoming side with the wild and free style. The song was supposed to ask the girl on a date by giving her a ride in his car or whatever else have you. The song was supposed to conquer how a guy approaches a beautiful woman that he likes and sees in need.

BLAKE: It is often said that great art arises from difficult experience. Is there something in your life experience thus far that you would describe as the ‘catalyst’ or ‘fuel’ for your desire to create music?
MATTHEW PRIMOUS: I had a harsh experience in my career. I wrote many songs but I could find no one to sing them. I received some recognition in singing but I was unsure about my talent. It took me 11 years to get this recognition and all I want to do is share it with the world. I invested all that I got into this career and I’ll be damned if I give it up now.

BLAKE: How would you characterize yourself as an artist/musician? (Ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving, complicated…)
MATTHEW PRIMOUS: I am down-to-earth and fun-loving but most of all, serious about music because I love making music. I love writing it, producing it, and singing it. I write music when I feel good and when I feel bad. It has been therapeutic for me, and it helps me to stay sound. It allows me to let out all my aggression and it helps me to show all my love to the world. Music is simply a miracle to me.

 

BLAKE: What has your experience been like working with the other people on your team?
MATTHEW PRIMOUS: They have been great and helpful. They really took a chance out on me and they give me the benefit of a doubt. Without their help, I’m sure I could not have done what I’ve done. I am very fortunate to have them on my side. It is a blessing from God and I cherish their friendship.

BLAKE: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
MATTHEW PRIMOUS: I was singing ever since I was the young at age 6 in elementary. My mother sung in the church and my father sung in college. My brothers and sisters including me were in a church choir. Music has been in my family for a long time and they encouraged me to live my dream. In middle school, I learned how to play the keyboard and I sung in the school choir. I sung in the Middle School’s Talent Contest, which was my first performance. I took a Voice Class and entered the New York State Music Festival receiving Excellence from the judge. I played a “little” piano to my voice but voice has been my strongest musical area. Later on, I learned how to play a “little” guitar after high school.

BLAKE: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
MATTHEW PRIMOUS: I find the awards to be the most rewarding because it recognizes my talent. It tells me that I have come a long way since starting in music. I thank God for the talent because I believed that is my purpose to sing the music of my heart to the world. This music is all about love and showing the big heart I have for that music. I was proud to win Akademia Award for 2 consecutive times and to be a Double Nominee for Artist of the Year in the genre of R&B/Soul and the genre of Pop. It is challenging getting prepared for a performance. I have to find the right band members and I will have to see if they can hold true to the purpose of love songs. I am working on doing a national and world tour, I got a vendor that is interested but I have to find a way to put a band altogether.

BLAKE: Who are your role models in music?
MATTHEW PRIMOUS: Prince is my role model because he had it altogether. He had the nice suits and the style. I remember when I was young listening to his song ‘1999’on Batman and his ‘Diamonds and Pearls’. Batman was my favorite superhero. His music makes you want to scream and shout. He had a flame with his music that made his audience feel that he loved what he was doing. His music draws you in and take you into a trance. Michael Jackson is my role model because he had the power. His outfits were one-of-a-kind and unique. I remember when I was young watching him with my family. His music was for teenagers and up but it did not stop me from listening. ‘Thriller’ was my favorite because it made you want to dance and dance like him. Michael Jackson had the beats and the words were intoxicating. I also think ‘Dirty Diana’ was very moving and influential. James Brown is my role model because my Dad introduced me to his music. He always had it together with his band and his performance. I remember watching his documentary about his life. His songs make you feel all kinds of expressions. I like the repetition in his voice and in his music as he sung ‘Get On Up’ and ‘This Is a Man’s World’. The horns made you wanna dance and you could hear the love in his music.

BLAKE: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
MATTHEW PRIMOUS: I would have to say when I was 28 years old at Letchworth Park in New York at a local singing event. I was singing the stanzas of ‘Man in the Mirror’ by Michael Jackson. The R&B/Soul and even Pop really came out as I sing the song without noting the notes and guidelines. The audience was shocked about how I sing the song and they applaud loudly and cheer. I got in trouble when I thought the song would be easy because they had Michael Jackson’s voice played in the background, so in a way I was trying to take control over the song but it was hard singing like Michael Jackson. I was caught in the impression of the song. But from that time on, I knew that I had music in my background and I would build on this moment. I wanted to grasp that rich inheritance within me and share it with the world and I was determined.

BLAKE: What advice would you give to young, aspiring artists out there who are unsure and need guidance?
MATTHEW PRIMOUS: I would tell them to try out contests and to test their vocal ability. Everybody is not gifted to be a vocalist but they can share in the musical experience. And if you know that you have a gift to share with the world, keep trying and be ready for criticism and the reward of enduring. Try to work from the ground up and you will never fall.

BLAKE: What's next for you as an artist? Is there a new single in the works? If so, what can you tell us about it?
MATTHEW PRIMOUS: I have done about 8 albums in advance, years ago, and I plan on coming out with one next. It is called Matthew Primous – ‘The Latest’. It will feature 13 songs about love and anxiety. It has already been reviewed as great music and it is in the Pop genre.

BLAKE: Very exciting, I can't wait! Thank you for taking the time to let us into your world as an artist. I wish you continued success in your career.

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