Meet Matt Reagh | Drummer/Musician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Matt Reagh and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Matt, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Growing up in a household surrounded by music was certainly an influence. Music turned into a pretty sacred thing for me at an early age. It was there for every occasion and emotion I was feeling, so another reason to become involved in the industry is wanting to be a part of the force that helps elicit those emotions for other people as well.
I don’t really remember what exactly led me to drums, but I do remember it being a pretty easy decision to say, hey I actually want to learn this. Something about figuring out how to play songs was kind of a rush which led me to want to play with other people and create my own style. After playing with some bands in school, at dances, talent shows, wherever they’d have us, it didn’t take long for me to realize that this is something that needs to be a part of my life.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Being a drummer I provide expression through rhythm. I get excited seeing a song come together and figuring out what I can contribute to help further create the landscape or just to help create the vibe at that time.

Showing off or being in the spotlight isn’t really a thing I’ve been comfortable with. I’ve always tried to play for the song rather than for myself.
I think that’s something that sets me apart. Having discipline is pretty important. Knowing when to hold back and when to shine can be crucial to get the job.

It’s not necessarily something easy to obtain. I mean, who doesn’t want to sit behind a drum kit, grab some sticks and go crazy. It’s fun, man! But wanting to do it for a career isn’t for everyone. There are definitely some times it’s not fun and can be challenging.

Practice plays a big part of course, like most skills. You can lose your muscle memory pretty quickly so not staying on top of it, rather its behind the kit or on the pad, you can lose your chops.

Early on I was self taught and really had no direction, until my Dad connected me with a professional drummer that gave me more guidance and the tools to take drumming to the next level, including discipline.
But even now, several years later I’m still learning and meeting new people giving me more guidance and showing me new things and different approaches. I get bored pretty easily so it keeps me wanting to challenge myself.

I’m always willing to meet new musicians or professionals in the industry to network and possibly create something with.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is a pretty awesome question. Man, there’s a lot of cool spots in Atlanta. I’m more of an off the cuff kinda guy so I don’t know if I’d make an itinerary, but some places off the top of my head to visit would be Krog Street which with so many options that could be a more than one day hang. Bone Garden Cantina is a great spot. Especially on Dia de Los Muertos, they go all out. Another absolute must would have to be Trader Vic’s. Tikis, Food and Mai Tais, what more would you need?

Speaking of drinks, Monday Night Brewery is a great place to grab one and definitely stop by Gaja, a hidden little Korean bar across the street from The Earl.
Music is huge in Atlanta! So there is a lot of venues to check out. If a show is happening, The Tabernacle would be a good one. For some local music Smiths Olde Bar and Eddie’s Attic is a couple of great venues, along with the Star Bar and walk across the street to check out some of the oddities in Junkman’s Daughter at Little 5 of course

Fernbank, The High, the Belt Line, it would be pretty tough to squeeze it all in one week!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’m fortunate enough to have support from many people in my life including friends and family. It definitely helps me from getting discouraged and to keep pushing forward. I’ve met so many mentors along the way, a few stand out that I regularly keep in touch with.
Every one of them has contributed in keeping me on the right path and have pushed me to keep going.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/reagh_13?igshid=MzNlNGNkZWQ4Mg==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.reagh.5?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Other: Email: matt.reagh13@gmail.com

Image Credits
Chad Edwards Nicholas Jude