Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Matt Nestor. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Matt , appreciate you joining us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

Risk is always around when playing music, which I love. Whether it’s changing set-lists, how the crowd will react, or different venues and their set-ups. The challenge of all the risks involved in playing live music is what I really enjoy and makes the performace so rewarding. When a risk works out, it’s the best feeling. When it doesn’t, you take notes on how you could have played/ performed better and move on.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I have been playing music my whole life. With a band, solo, or filling in for a group it’s something that I fully enjoy. It’s never a dull moment playing gigs, which is what really keeps me going. Starting out in a middle school band into high school, then playing acoustic music with college friends, and transitioning to a full band and now solo, music has been a wild journey. I’ve been lucky enough to play with some great people, and make lasting connections. In 2014, is when it started picking up pace with my band Tom Devil and the Wizard. We were a rock band that got some radio play and had great gigs in Texas and the East Coast. In 2018, I decided to leave my parks and rec job to do solo music full time. That was a risk, but I knew I had to be all in if I wanted to give this a shot. Since then 4 EP’s, playing music all over the country, and building a rapport with venues, it has all been a great experience! .

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I think the main lesson I have learned playing solo music is every good gig will lead to another one. Meaning if you play well, show up on time, do the little things, the ball will start to roll with other opportunities. Also, don’t be afraid to try new avenues of music. Sending songs out to podcasts, or starting little youtube videos, its important to be versatile in this industry.

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

Playing live music will always be the most rewarding. As much as I love recording, in the moment of live music and engaging with people is what it’s all about.     

Contact Info:

• Website: www.mattnestormusic.com
• Instagram: matt_nestor_music
• Facebook: Matt Nestor
• Youtube: mattnestor8184

Image Credits
Sam Musabyimana & Garrett Gilliam