Growing up, Matt Taylor was told he would never make it in the music industry, but he listened to his heart and has now had a hand in recording Frank Turner’s number one album. , FTHC.
Matt was in the Isle of Man care system but moved alone to High Peak at 16 to do a BTec in Music Technology at Glossopdale Community College.
Not only is he working on hit albums, but at just 27, Matt was elected as one of five directors of the Music Producer’s Guild, a national non-profit organization that represents professional record producers, engineers sound, mixers and mastering. engineers from all walks of life as well as recording studios to ensure their voice is heard within the music industry.
The 29-year-old said: “I grew up in the care system where success is about avoiding prison, so to achieve something of this magnitude is surreal. Ambitions weren’t meant to be for people like us.
“I’m honored to be where I am now and to serve on the board of directors to help shape policy and shape the future of music, it’s completely amazing and something I’ve never dream.”
Matt says working on Frank Turner’s new album has been happening throughout the lockdown and thanks to advances in technology the team have been able to do things remotely.
Matt said: “It’s the biggest project I’ve ever worked on and everyone was just trying to make it the best it could be.”
In the studio, Matt is the person who actually records the music that people hear on the radio and on downloads.
He explained, “A lot of people think that to be in the music industry you either have to play an instrument or sing, but it’s such a varied career path and there are so many options. for the people.
“Not everyone will be like school and that’s okay. What I learned is that no one cares about your past, they care about your current quality, your passion for the project and what you can bring to the piece.”
For Matt, who lives on Sherwood Road in Buxton and who many know from his band Fuzzy Felt World, his journey has been about never giving up.
“When I started I was told it would take longer than you think but as long as you don’t give up you will get there.
“It wasn’t always easy, but it was always worth it.”
FTHC reached number one on the official charts on Friday, February 18, making it the first number one for Frank and Matt.
Matt said: “I am grateful to him for allowing me to be part of the team and his journey. Hopefully this won’t be the last number one for either of us.
“I love making music and maybe I’m just one link in the chain on this album but I’m so proud of what everyone has achieved together.
“I want to tell everyone who is currently living in the care system that you have the right to have dreams and you can make them come true.”
