Artist description Chicago singer/songwriter/guitarist Jay Mathes writes, performs, and records American Music: combining blues, country, folk, and rock, to create memorable melodies with spontaneous lyrics. Jay is now creating a buzz in his home region and hopes to quickly expand the reach of his music. Visit Jaymathes.com for the latest details of where he is performing and to purchase his full-length album, Leave It All Behind.

Music Style American - combining blues, country, folk, and rock.

Musical Influences James Taylor, John Denver, Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan

Similar Artists Sister Hazel, John Mayer, Ben Harper, Jack Johnson, Guster

Artist History Blues legend B.B. King said, “When I was young, I didn’t play like I do today. So these kids are starting at the height that I’ve reached. Think what they might do over time.” Listening to 20 year-old singer/songwriter/guitarist Jay Mathes it isn’t difficult to imagine. His musical instincts and passion are clearly heard throughout his music. Jay’s musical roots run deep. His grandfather was a concert violinist in Austria around the turn of the century and his uncle was a horn player who had his own big band in the 60’s. In addition, his grandmother sang on the radio in the 1930’s while in high school. His mother’s musical background also instilled a passion for music that drives him today. On his thirteenth birthday Jay received an electric guitar. He vowed to play guitar well, not like so many other kids in the neighborhood. In music he is driven not just to play guitar, but to master it. Jay Mathes’ interests take him back to the roots of modern music. He is inspired by the great classic jazz, blues and rock guitarists. It is his genuine love for music and a respect for the great legends that motivates him. Jay Mathes writes truly “American Music”, combining aspects of blues, country, folk and rock to create an eclectic style of music. His soulful lead guitar and deep vocals reveal these influences that give him a truly unique sound. Since December of 1999 Jay Mathes has performed many venues in the western suburbs of Chicago, including performances at Two Way Street Coffeehouse, Naperville, and the Dupage County Fair. Jay consistently packs venues and receives media coverage all throughout the suburbs. He has had articles printed in the Daily Herald, Lombardian, Suburban News, and numerous others. Jay Mathes’ new release album, Leave It All Behind, is attracting the attention of hundreds of fans through email and flyers and his fan base is continuously expanding. “I want people to see my playing and recognize that I’m the real deal,” Jay states. His passion is to create music that will speak to the heart of a generation. He hopes not only to continue making great music, but to do what he loves most -- to perform it live.

Instruments Guitar, Voice, Piano, Bass, Percussion

Albums Leave It All Behind

Press Reviews “[Jay Mathes’] music is a fresh blend of blues, gospel and light rock [and] his soulful lyrics come from the heart.” - Lombardian Newspaper “an aspiring guitarist, singer and songwriter” - Naperville Sun Newspaper “no newcomer to music of healing and redemption” – Press Publications “It was a tremendous success for New Day and my honor to support a local talent like [Jay].” - Jason Wagner, owner, New Day Coffeehouse, Lombard

Location Chicago, IL - USA

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