In the world of country music, there are performers who chase fame first and musical success later. These artists often find themselves enjoying lavish perks like private jets and arena catering. On the other hand, some, like Matt Daniel, are drawn to country music out of necessity, driven by an unshakable need to express their deepest emotions through song. Yet, despite their immense talent, these artists often face struggles that include financial hardship and imposter syndrome.
Matt Daniel is one of those artists. He’s not in it for the fame or the spectacle; instead, he writes and sings country music because he feels it’s his calling. He’s blessed with extraordinary talent, a powerful voice, and the ability to write deeply meaningful lyrics. However, self-promotion and big performances are the last things he desires. As he admits in the opening track of his new album, The Poet, “I guess what I’m trying to say is I feel unqualified.”
But make no mistake—Matt Daniel is more than qualified to be a country music artist.
Daniel first gained widespread attention with his 2022 album All I’ll Ever Need, particularly with the song “Weatherman,” which resonated deeply with many listeners. Now, his latest release, The Poet, continues where his last album left off. It features another standout track, “Long Way Home,” a song that perfectly showcases his incredible musical abilities and memorable melodies.
The cover art of The Poet, a simple graphite sketch, reflects the album’s essence: unpretentious, no-frills country music. With nine tracks, Daniel takes listeners through the seasons of his life, sharing the emotions and stories that shaped him. The album is a testament to his artistry, with the help of co-writers Nate Fredrick and Nathan Chapman who assisted with some of the lyrics.
The beauty of The Poet lies not only in its heartfelt lyrics but also in its exceptional instrumentation. Fiddle, steel guitar, and lead guitar blend seamlessly with Daniel’s voice, each instrument carefully chosen to enhance the raw emotion in his songs. The track “Keepin’ Me Alive” brings to mind the sounds of ’90s country, evoking memories of Clint Black, but with a modern twist. The song stretches over six minutes, allowing the studio band to fully explore the depth of the music.
Other highlights include the powerful closing track “Long Way Home” and the emotionally stirring “Brand New Start,” the second-to-last track on the album. Both songs showcase Daniel’s devotion and passion, with lyrics that will resonate even with those who may not share his religious views.
In a different era, Matt Daniel’s talent would have been widely recognized, leading to major tours and international acclaim. Today, it’s up to country music fans to support artists like him. By sharing his music with others, attending his shows, and promoting his work, we can help ensure that he has the resources to continue creating music and sharing his soul with the world.
Matt Daniel isn’t pursuing fame—he’s singing because he has to. And country music needs artists like him to keep the genre alive and true to its roots.
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