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After three decades in music—and now 20 solo albums deep—Matt Smith isn’t slowing down. If anything, he’s sharpening his perspective. A songwriter, producer, and mentor, Smith has spent years not only crafting his own expansive catalog, but also helping hundreds of artists find their voice.
In this candid conversation with Vents Magazine, he reflects on how turbulent global events have reshaped his creative drive, why great albums are so rare, and what it really takes to build a lasting career in music. From the evolution of his songwriting to the philosophy behind his Austin-based studio, 6 String Ranch, Smith offers equal parts hard-earned wisdom and unfiltered honesty.
Hi, Matt! Welcome to Vents Magazine. Congratulations on the release of your 20th solo album, …this is not ok…. What fuels your drive to keep writing and producing your own albums?
For the last 10 years, it’s been the incredibly tumultuous times we’ve all been through, how the pandemic affected our social behaviors on a global scale and the loss of empathy for each other that has given me a lot of things to say. Previously, life, love and trying to figure out where I fit in the world was the creative motivation. Constant experimenting with sound and sonic textures also keeps me inspired.
How has your songwriting evolved over the last three decades?
Writing mirrors life. It’s like a picture of you at a certain age with a particular haircut. It represents where you were emotionally at that time. As I evolved as a person, I’d like to think the songs went along for the ride. Living in upstate NY, then NYC, then Austin each brought so many experiences and so much inspiration. 30 years is a lot of life. Each song is like a photograph of that period, each album a picture of that year.
You’ve produced and mentored hundreds of other artists from all over the world. What recurring lessons do you find most impactful for developing artists?
Believe in yourself but try to maintain perspective about expectations. Careers take a lot of time and effort. Put the work in. Listen and learn from those who know what you need to know. Put the right people around you. Never let the passion that drives you be discouraged by those who would break your spirit. There are many levels of success that are not measured financially or by fame. Getting to do what you love for a living with good friends can help get you through the tough times!
Over the past three decades of creating music, which projects have stood out the most to you?
Honestly, helping others achieve their visions with their music gives me just as much joy and satisfaction as writing and creating my own songs. I’ve been very blessed to be busy enough to have a wonderfully varied schedule at 6 String Ranch. I’m either working with an artist, teaching, writing and recording my own music, or playing gigs all the time.
What makes a “great” album, in your opinion?
When there is the rare, magical combination of songwriting, musicianship, imagination, integrity, passion, wit, rebellion and cinematic vastness in a collection of songs whose pacing takes the listener on a sonic and emotional journey. That’s a lot. I always strive to do the very best I can do…
Tell us how you started 6 String Ranch Studios?
For over 20 years I did guitar seminars all over the US and Europe for Kaman Music (Ovation, Takamine, Hamer, Genz-Benz, Trace Elliot) and later for Pigtronix and Supro, as well as Fret King and Silvertone guitars.
Bill Kaman was a great friend and moved to Austin. Together, in 2016 we formed 6 String Ranch, which is a full-service recording studio specializing in mentoring artists and bands through writing, production and recording as well as master classes with visiting artists and guitar and recording instruction. Bill made it happen!
What do you find the most rewarding as a producer?
Being a part of others’ creative process, stepping out of my own! Seeing the growth of careers and long term relationships with artists. It’s like you’re having a music baby together. You try to give the music the best start you can, and hope that it has a long successful life!
Any plans to tour?
I generally play sporadic gigs in Austin and in the northeast. The studio keeps me very engaged. I like sleeping in my own bed at night. I spent many years traveling. I think the touring environment is much more difficult for artists now. Costs make it very difficult.
What’s the best advice you received as a developing artist earlier in your career? What’s the worst advice you’ve received?
“What’s the best part of this song and why isn’t the rest of it as good?”
“To truly be an artist, you need to look beyond what goes over in your local bar and try to make music for the world.”
“Music doesn’t come from you, it comes through you!”
Worst advice?
“You need a gimmick! Let’s make you into a pirate. We’ll get you an eyepatch, a stuffed parrot and a tricorner hat! You can be Pirate Matt! Ahoy matey! I play Guitaaarrrrgggh!”
That didn’t fly with me!
What’s next for Matt Smith?
More writing, recording, producing and teaching! I’m working on a new record, and have a 30 year live retrospective in the works.
For more info on Matt Smith and 6 String Ranch Studios: https://6stringranch.com/
