“I think the most important aspect is teaching young musicians that blues music is the real foundation of every other kind of music. It will only help them on whatever musical path they choose.”

Matthew Curry: One For The Ride

Matthew Curry, one of the best Blues rock greats of his generation. Curry, is an original roots rock singe and songwriter from Bloomington, Illinois, who is well- known for his incredible guitar-playing abilities. This talent has earned him opening touring slots with The Doobie Brothers, Peter Frampton, Steve Miller Band, Journey and more. He has played at nationally-renowned places, festivals and even on a cruise, which featured rock ‘n’ roll legends, such as Gregg Allman, Marshall Tucker, America and many more. Whether he is playing at the Troubadour in LA, Maxwell’s in New Jersey, The Ride Festival in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, or the Hogs Breath Saloon in Key West, Florida, Curry does not disappoint his audience. Fans have traveled great distances to follow and see him live. Curry’s roots certainly run muddy-waters deep, something that’s not been lost on the guitar legends he’s had the honor of sharing the stage with over the past few years. Curry’s music appeals to a broad spectrum as he has built a multi- generational audience, evident at his shows. Fans are drawn to and connect with his music and lyrics. His songs draw from personal inspirations, incorporating elements of rock, blues, southern rock, and old school country.

Bloomington native and early-career rocker Matthew Curry is back with his first album in six years, titled “One for the Ride” (2025). This CD includes ten songs featuring special guest musicians from The Doobie Brothers, Peter Frampton Band, Jimmie Vaughan Band, and Chicago! Matthew Curry will be part of the Blues Caravan 2026 tour, alongside Laura Chavez and Elise Frank. The tour is promoted by Ruf Records and is scheduled to include dates in Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Luxembourg, beginning in January 2026. The Blues Caravan 2026 – 20th Anniversary Edition kicks off its milestone year with a bold new take on a rock classic: “Under My Thumb” by The Rolling Stones.

Interview by Michael Limnios

How has the music influenced your views of the world? What moment changed your music life the most?

There are two moments I can recall that musically impacted me the most as a young musician. The first one was hearing the Beatles for the first time. After that, it was all that I wanted to listen to - and it made me OBSESSED with music in general. The second one was hearing Stevie Ray Vaughan for the first time. It forever changed my approach to guitar.. But, I think he did that for a lot of guitar players haha! 

How do you describe your sound, music philosophy and songbook? What's the balance in music between technique (skills) and soul/emotions? 

I would describe my sound as guitar based american roots music. I grew up listening to everything... Whether it was Blues, Rock'n'roll, Southern Rock, Country, etc.. I've always drawn from all of those genres when crafting songs, arrangements, melodies, harmony, etc. I always try to serve the song when it comes to writing. 

What´s been the highlights in your career so far? Are there any memories from gigs, jams, open acts and studio sessions which you’d like to share with us?

I've been so fortunate in this regard. So much in fact, that I really cannot name one single highlight in my career.. there's been so many, and I'm crossing my fingers that there are many more to come!  However, I can give you some of my most cherished memories thus far.. Certainly all of the major support tours we've done. Opening for Steve Miller Band, The Doobie Bros., Peter Frampton, Journey, etc. I've had the great pleasure of befriending all of these people.. that's not something many folks get the great fortune of being able to say. So I'm forever grateful for that.. and for all of their kindness and generosity.

“Well generally, I think the most important thing in this business is kindness and respect. People's egos can get in the way of that.. whether they're on the music making end of things, or music business end of things. I'd be lying if I said I haven't been there in my younger years. At this point in my career, I'm just out to make as many friends as I possibly can!” (Photo: Matthew Curry)

What do you miss most nowadays from the music of the past? What are your hopes and fears for the future of?

Wow, this is a great question. I guess the thing I miss most from music of the past is less related to the music itself and more related to how it was consumed. Going to concerts, and buying records / cd's / tapes / etc. Was a way of life for so many people. (In my case as a child, it was buying CD's hahaha.) Granted, while social media and streaming platforms can be very helpful for musical artists - it can also be harmful. Every single person has the option to hear any music they can dream of at the touch of a finger. Or watch any concert online. I fear that this will lead to future generations not having the same appreciation for going to see their favorite artists in a live setting. I don't know, I hope I'm wrong.. Time will tell! 

What are some of the most important lessons you have learned from your experience in the music paths?

Well generally, I think the most important thing in this business is kindness and respect. People's egos can get in the way of that.. whether they're on the music making end of things, or music business end of things. I'd be lying if I said I haven't been there in my younger years. At this point in my career, I'm just out to make as many friends as I possibly can! 

How did the idea of Blues Caravan 2026 come about? What do you love most about the Under My Thumb song? How did the blues shape rock and roll?

The Blues Caravan is something that Ruf Records has been doing for twenty years now. As a newly signed Ruf artist, I was asked to be a part of the tour in 2026. I'm very excited for it! In regards to "Under My Thumb" there's nothing to not love about it! It's a timeless song by a timeless band! The Blues shaped everything.. Blues is the true foundation to every genre. I'm so happy that I was so deeply invested in playing the Blues from a very early age. It gave me the proper foundation to continue to build and explore! 

Why is it important to we preserve and spread the blues? What is the role of music/musician in today’s society?

I think the most important aspect is teaching young musicians that blues music is the real foundation of every other kind of music. It will only help them on whatever musical path they choose.

”I would describe my sound as guitar based american roots music. I grew up listening to everything... Whether it was Blues, Rock'n'roll, Southern Rock, Country, etc.. I've always drawn from all of those genres when crafting songs, arrangements, melodies, harmony, etc. I always try to serve the song when it comes to writing.”

(Photo: Matthew Curry)

What are you doing to keep your music relevant today, to develop it and present it to the new generation?

Well, in all honesty.. I'm not so sure I think about relevancy so much in the writing process. Of course I draw inspiration from new artists and newer music.. But I tend to write, sing, and play what speaks to my emotions and to my heart. And I guess all that I can do itshope it speaks to a few other folks as well! Hahaha! My hope is to only keep growing as a songwriter, singer, and guitar player! 

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