ABOUT Multi-instrumentalist, singer/songwriter/arranger, champion of the underdogs, Matt Mayes
“For me, busking is more than just playing music on the street. It’s a chance to connect with people from all walks of life, to share my passion for music with complete strangers, and to create spontaneous moments of joy and inspiration. There’s a magic to performing in public spaces that you just can’t find anywhere else. Whether I’m playing for a crowd of people or just one passerby, every busking experience is unique and unforgettable. It’s a true honor to be able to bring music into people’s lives in such an intimate and unexpected way.”
Performed at the Fox Theater for McDonald’s Gospel Fest and with Jerry Rosa’s Stringworks Band in St. Louis.
Won several banjo contest trophies across the Midwest.
Mentored by the late Frank Mullen, renowned arranger, and guitarist.
Jammed privately with Bela Fleck and the Flecktones.
Toured with Jerry Falwell in The Sounds of Liberty.
Performed Irish Fiddle at the Mayor’s River of Green in Tampa with the Paddy O’ Furniture Band.
Taught at historic Bringe Music in St. Pete with over 30 private students.
Collaborated with notable musicians including Nate Najar, Patrick Bettison, Larue Nickleson, Joe Porter, Eddie Rosicky, Rick Redcay, Rick Flippen, and Patricia Nevins.
Shared stages with jazz legends like Butch Thomas, Slide Hampton, John Lamb, Wayne Pearson, and John Blackwell.
Established himself as an underground photographer, “MOJOKISS,” during the alt-glam era with notable connections and publications.
Consulted with Chick Corea in person and via email.
Worked as a studio session player.
CURRENT NEWS From Matt:
I have been playing my ukuleles more lately, the last 5 years and tuning them like a Viola or a Mandola and play Bach and New Wave synth and guitar lines on the while singing, and getting into busking, more and more using this little uke as my main instrument.
I set out the summer of 2024 to spend time in Asheville because of the mild summers and great music and to develop some music and artwork in my small new studio in The River Arts District in the Phil Mechanic Building which houses many art studios and galleries, which gives me a nice feeling and allows me to have an environment rich with creative force.
Please consider donating to my efforts as I just like you require food, gas and rent to survive and to make my art and music.
