We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Matren. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Matren below.

Alright, Matren thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. One of the toughest things about progressing in your creative career is that there are almost always unexpected problems that come up – problems that you often can’t read about in advance, can’t prepare for, etc. Have you had such and experience and if so, can you tell us the story of one of those unexpected problems you’ve encountered?

The most unexpected and biggest obstacle I’ve had to overcome as an artist was re-training my voice after being told I may never be able to sing again.
I began vocal training at a young age in choir and theatre as a first soprano. I had a crystal clear and pure sounding voice that was higher pitched, but always prayed for some soul to come out of me somehow.
In September of 2019, I was put into a medically induced coma for one week due to an asthma attack. During recovery my doctor informed me that the intubation likely caused permanent damage to my vocal cords; leaving an indefinite rasp and lack of control over something I worked so hard my whole life for. All the progress I’ve made to build my artistry was suddenly gone (in my eyes) overnight.

Music is a musicians way to cope; how was I going to get through this without coping through music?

Although I knew my voice would never sound the same, I was determined to have my control back. I would lock myself in my bathroom and practice vocal warm ups at the house so my roommates (who were also vocalists) couldn’t hear how badly my voice had been affected. I seized every opportunity of having an empty house to train my belting; And man, was it rough. I was utterly embarrassed by the sounds that would come out of me.

I’d say it took about 8 months to a year for me to regain most of my vocal control. Although I lost my old voice; I earned the soulful rasp that I always prayed for.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m an R&B, Pop/Soul artist originating from Indianapolis, Indiana. I grew up with a background in theatre and performative arts and becoming an artist has always been my passion. With a soft, choral soprano tone, I began writing and playing pop songs on piano at 14 years old.  At the age of 19, I had a near death experience that left permanent damage to my vocal cords. My recovery unveiled a new voice with warm, raspy, sultry alto tones which lead to my devotion to R&B/Soul. Explore my life and emotions through songs of love, heartbreak, individualism, lust, and growth.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the peace that writing music brings you. Writing can help destress when you’re having a hard time expressing yourself; I sometimes find that I write better songs when I’m at a loss for words.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

I built my social media following on TikTok to 40k+ by doing livestream performances for my followers. I would take requests and treat it as if it was a gig all while interacting with my viewers comments and questions. If I were to give any advice, it’s to be yourself! You never know why someone may like you, or what part of your personality will connect with an audience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://matren.bandzoogle.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madelynerene/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Matren.
• Other: Link Tree for all music links and future releases:
  https://linktr.ee/Matren