MATT SCANNELL

To answer the question “Who is Matt Scannell?” I could have copied over his biography from his official band website or reprinted what’s been collated over the years via various press outlets. But, that wouldn’t further the purpose of this site — which is to help fans discover the many facets of the man behind the music. A biography can present an event chronology of one’s life but can’t capture the essence of a person’s spirit and heart. This fan site can’t accomplish that goal either, but my hope is that by presenting his accomplishments, contributions, and life interests, people can enjoy “getting to know” Matt a little better, in their own way. Matt is synonymously tied to the successful alternative rock band he founded – Vertical Horizon. As a consummate and professional musician, many fans across the globe have come to respect, admire, and appreciate Matt’s musical talent. Which, by the way, includes songwriting, singing, guitar playing, and production. Specifically, Matt possesses an uncanny ability to connect with his listeners via his unique musicality and style. He does this through thought-provoking lyricism, an incredible on-stage energy, incomparable performance techniques, a beautiful, clear and resonant voice – all alongside a rich multi-layered composition tapestry.

Matt’s songwriting presents engaging and ear-catching harmonies and twists, and some of the most unique and arresting song bridges you’ll ever hear.Beyond his rockstar status as a talented musician, Matt is also simply put – a nice guy. His two-word self-description on his Twitter profile headliner reads as “serial seriousist.” There is that side to him, evident via his song lyrics, some of his wry status postings, and his relay of his darker life experiences in press interviews. However, I challenge Matt to come up with a more comprehensive moniker, because if you ever get a chance to meet Matt in person, or follow him for any period of time on his social media platforms, you will also experience a very light-hearted, playful, and refreshingly fun side to him as well, who is able to find humor within his observations on life. Matt is a creative amateur photographer, a massive Rush band fan, a sports car and aviation aficionado, and a self-professed watch & denim nerd. Additionally, he loves snow and “subscribing” to cold weather (while he simultaneously hates being cold with air conditioning overuse), enjoys fly fishing, would like to try scuba diving, and prefers (actually demands) that those colorful sugar things which go on cupcakes & ice cream be called jimmies, as per his local custom from his hometown of Worcester, MA. (I don’t dare type the word that begins with “s” and rhymes with twinkles).Most notably, Matt possesses a humble & kind spirit coupled with a deep sense of thankfulness. His heart and gratitude fosters his drive to give back – whether it be musically on stage at his live shows, performing for the troops stationed overseas, or connecting with his fans online and in person.

I noticed that Matt consistently takes time out of his busy schedule to share his insights, personal anecdotes, photographs, musical passions, and knowledge on an array of topics. He regularly provides song commentaries, studio updates & guitar tutorials, and even shares his Spotify playlists of songs he’s listening to. I’ve provided direct links to those two playlists, so check them out in the side column bar of this page. Matt’s humble sharings caught my attention and furthered my respect for him, because in this day and age, many people similarly situated do not use social media this way.Does all the above summarize Matt Scannell in a nutshell? While I think much of what I collected captures bits & pieces of his life, I firmly believe no one can ever be adequately summarized in a biography. It’s up to you to discover him on your own by listening to his music, meeting him yourself, following him online, and enjoying the material on this site for starters. His biography and legacy are evolving entities. As we celebrate the 15th anniversary of his hit song, “Everything You Want” going #1 on the Billboard charts, we also celebrate the inspiration that Matt invokes as a musician and a person. To echo the song title and sentiment of Matt’s favorite single from his latest album, his fans worldwide are lovestruck evermore. And to that end, he IS everything we want.

For additional information, visit: www.verticalhorizon.com