Matt Nathanson doesn’t just write catchy pop songs; he’s also a guy who puts his time and energy where it counts. Whether it’s working with Operation Smile to help kids with cleft palates or collaborating with Starkey to bring hearing aids to those in need, Matt’s all about using his platform for good. “It’s cool to perpetuate good things,” he says. “And I found when we shot the ‘Headphones’ video, instead of fake making out with a model, it was great to put that money towards a good cause.”
Operation Smile recently honored him with an award, recognizing his work with Starkey, a company out of Minneapolis that gives the gift of hearing worldwide. Matt humbly shrugs off the recognition: “I’m just donating my time and some energy. They really do the bulk of the incredible work.” The whole experience has given him some perspective on how fortunate he is: “How lucky are we to have our senses? Music saved my life repeatedly. Imagine not being able to have that as a lifeline.”
Matt’s also stepping way outside his usual lane with a contribution to a feminist anthology, prompted by a fan who noticed how much he shares about books and life on social media. “She wanted me to write a piece, and I was like, ‘Dude, I’m a straight white man—how am I qualified?’” He laughs about how his instinct was to make space for other voices, but after some encouragement, he’s diving in, exploring how to thoughtfully navigate his role as an ally.
Of course, Matt’s got opinions, and he’s not afraid to put them out there. From slamming Trump to calling out racism, he’s not one to stay silent. But he’s also realistic about the backlash: “It’s just not really my thing to go on rants because I don’t necessarily want to engage anybody in conversation about it. I don’t need people to illuminate to me how ignorant they are—that really depresses me.” Instead, he’s learned to channel his energy into real-world actions, whether that means showing up for a cause or simply being a better human.
When it comes to songwriting, Matt’s all about transparency—especially these days. He’s got no time for glossing over the rough parts just to sound charming. “My goal as an artist is to get as transparent as I can. The more honest I am about who I am, the more impactful the art.” Take the song “Washington State Fight Song,” where he starts with the line, “It snowed in Seattle and we fucked on the floor.” His co-writer wasn’t so sure about it, but Matt dug in: “If it’s a line I want to run away from, it feels like a line I should run into.”
He’s equally transparent about his influences. Whether he’s channeling Sly and the Family Stone on “Summertime Golden Summertime” or letting his love of classic rock and AM radio seep into his songs, Matt’s unapologetically open about being a music nerd. “I like music more than I like people,” he jokes. “It’s actually true. I’m in a constant state of devouring music—just looking for that moment of elation.”
For a guy who’s been at this since 1993, Nathanson’s enthusiasm is still infectious. Whether he’s nerding out about records or reflecting on how to be a better person, he’s living proof that you can evolve as a human while staying true to the music that’s always been your lifeline.
And here's an earlier interview:
