SONGWRITERS.......The Meaning Behind the Moments

Sometimes, as photographers, we can get so caught up in photographing everyone else’s stories that we forget to step outside our everyday routine and create simply for the joy of creating.

That’s where a Personal Project comes in.

Over the past few months, I’ve found myself paying more attention to the incredible music happening right here in our own community. With MUSIC on MAIN bringing live music downtown and local businesses opening their doors to so many talented artists, I started noticing something…

There are SO many amazing musicians right here in Danville and Pittsylvania County — and their stories deserve to be heard.

So, I’m stepping outside my usual client work and picking up my camera for a project that is a little different, a little personal, and something I’m really excited about.

🎶 THE SOUNDS OF HOME 🎶

Over the next few months, I’ll be photographing local musicians and sharing a little of their story — where their musical journey began, what inspires them, and what makes this place they call home part of their music.

Because music isn't just something we hear.

It becomes part of the story of a place.

And I can’t wait to introduce you to some of the incredibly talented people who help make the soundtrack of our community.

Stay tuned…
The Sounds of HOME is just getting started. 🎶📷

I saw an event for the SONGWRITER CIRCLE and reached out to Matt who has a great story and agreed to be featured. Please check out his interview.

My first artist is Matt Crowder.

"The Sound of Home"

1. Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Matt Crowder and I was born and raised in Danville, VA. I’ve been been playing professionally in bands and as a solo artist for the past 11 years. I founded the Danville Songwriter Circle in 2023 and was recently voted #1 Musician in Reader’s Choice. I also host open mic every Sunday at 2 Witches in Danville.

2. Take us back to the beginning.
Music has always been a part of my life as far back as I can remember. My dad is a musician so, there were always instruments in the house when I was growing up. Even as early as 3, I’d plunk away on guitars or keyboards and make up words to sing along. I’d often tag along to my dad’s band practice or to a gig (depending on the venue). When I was 14 I begged my parents for an electric guitar but Christmas was a long ways away and I couldn’t wait. So what does one do? Ask Granny haha. She gave me an industrial sized mayonnaise jar filled with quarters. Turns out, it was exactly enough to get the guitar.

3. What has shaped you as a musician?
My first ever public performances started in church. It was there, that I learned how to follow along and develop improvisation skills. Later, when I became old enough, I would hit every open mic I could every single week. Surrounding myself with older and skilled musicians made a big impact on my progress.

4. How has growing up, living, or making music in Danville or Pittsylvania County influenced you as an artist?
There’s a great deal of talent in this area. A lot of the musicians that I’m closely connected to are 2nd and even 3rd generation musicians. Danville has such a rich history of music planted deeply with far stretching roots. The first ever 1mil copy selling country record was in fact “The Wreck of The Old 97” based on the infamous train crash nearby. Janis Martin, famously known as “The Female Elvis” was from this area and made a huge impact on Rockabilly music in the 50’s. In the 60’s Danville based Raven Records released Country, Gospel, and Soul music. Garage and punk bands of the 90’s and early 2000’s developed a whole new scene. And now, I feel the creativity beginning to stir again. People are coming in from out of state to participate in the original music scene that is growing here in the area.

5. Is there a local place, person, performance, or musical memory that feels like part of your story here?
Developing long-lasting relationships through music has been the most impactful. I’ve made great memories on and off stage.

6. What’s next for you?
I’m just focused on maintaining a career in music even if it’s just on a local level. I’m also working on writing songs and making that a bigger priority whether it be recording or shopping. As far as how I hope I’m viewed within the community? Favorably haha. I hope my actions show that either through education or encouragement, I try to help others to grow and develop their craft. Other than that, I hope they still like my songs even when I’m not looking.

If you want to FOLLOW Matt in his journey you can find him on Facebook @ Danville Songwriter Circle

Email: mattcrowdermusic@yahoo.com

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The SOUNDS of HOME

SONGWRITERS.......The Meaning Behind the Moments

My first artist is Matt Crowder.

"The Sound of Home"

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