I was and still am heavily influenced by some great songwriters whose careers began in the early 70s. Billy Joel, Elton John, and James Taylor have been quintessential in contributing to my songwriting and singing style.
Sounds Like
Jason Mraz, John Mayer, Howie Day, Gavin DeGraw, Billy Joel, James Taylor
Here's a recent performance of Matt and the band, live on BT:
Here's a recent performance of 'Everything Changed On The Way' at The Bitter End in New York.
'Everything Changed On The Way...' the new EP from Matt Humphreys is more fact than fiction for this singer/songwriter from Toronto. Having grown up in a Northern Ontario town, Matt brings a folk/roots vibe to his brand of adult contemporary pop. His songs speak of growing up, experiencing life, and finding (and losing out on) love.
The EP, produced by veteran Paul Milner who's previous credits include Queensryche, Eddy Grant, Sass Jordan, and the Doughboys, is backed by a band of stellar musicians including Kevin Breit (Celine Dion, Norah Jones), Mark Rogers (Kazzer, Edwin), and Jamie Oakes (Amy Sky, Tom Cochrane). 'Bailee', a song about breaking free from an emotionally negative relationship, highlights Matt's soaring melody over layered instrumental arrangements.
Born in Sudbury and raised in the town of Timmins, Ontario, Matt studied piano and voice privately before moving to Toronto to complete a Bachelor of Music in Voice. He continued to embrace the popular side of music as a frequent performer in pubs and clubs in the Toronto area, joining the ever growing Irish pub circuit of the late-90s.
From 1998 - 2003, Matt founded the successful celtic/folk ensemble Urban Folk with his brother Beau. They toured extensively across Canada, releasing two albums both containing original material penned by Matt. Post-Urban Folk Matt continued to play solo, building on the relationships he established at dozens of venues across the province.
Matt was recognized for his vocal abilities by being a featured contestant on the first season of the CTV television show 'Canadian Idol', battling his way to the top 48 singers in Canada, and more recently, in the third season, reaching the TOP 32..
After his TV appearances, Matt decided to concentrate on creating a solo persona that melded together the piano-pop greats of the 1970s with a much needed urban feel. Striving to break the mold of the contemporary pop singer, Matt draws inspiration from artists like Billy Joel, Elton John, and James Taylor. He continues to break new boundaries with his 'Everything Changed On The Way...' which is already receiving national radio play on CBC.
I have finally hit the road on a busking tour to raise money for War Child, Coast-to-coast – 50 cities – ALL PROCEEDS TO WARCHILD. Why? 66% of all war victims are CHILDREN. Shocked like me? War Child helps these children that have been affected by war. Check out the new blog – the whole story is up there. Love to have you be a part of it.
You’ll find a Blog, Tour page and a Bio page. I’ll be blogging daily from the road.
hey! just wanted to stop in let you know that I've changed my artist name to Adrian Edward but it's still me, I'm not going anywhere! lol! have a great week much love ~adrian edward
Speical Notice. WE MOVED! TO A NEWER AND BIGGER MYSPACE PAGE! To handle our international interest and provide an easier way for artist and fans to locate each other....
