Hi my name is Matt and music is pretty much my life. Although it’d be cool to be a rockstar and sell out stadium shows like U2, I’m not Bono and I don’t have millions of fans screaming my name when I’m on stage...except for my mom. Instead of being driven by fame and fortune, I’ve actually found a different way to “make it” in music.

Here’s my story. I grew up as a drummer playing rock, blues and funk all the way through college. I played in lots of bands and tons of shows. Somewhere in there I picked up the guitar, piano and do a little bit of singing. I currently scratch the entertainment itch under the moniker Romeo Dance Cheetah, where I create and perform using real and not-so-real instruments. Three quick facts: I was featured on America's Got Talent, the Today Show and am a national champion in....air guitar. Oh it's real...believe! My other famous-ish thing is a mustache themed comedy rap group appropriately titled The Flavor Savers. We’ve played some pretty big shows...opening for John Oates, playing SXSW and performing at Bonnaroo Music Festival four times in front of thousands. We also have millions of Youtube views from our ridiculous sketch videos and can safely say we’ve acquired a D (minus) list level of notoriety.

But as I’ve grown as a person and musician I’ve discovered a hunger for something more than fame from my music. Now I find great fulfillment by bringing joy to the people who matter most. Here’s an example. Not too long ago, I went to a family gathering with my girlfriend Adrianna and she brought along the Ukulele. She thought it might be fun for me to play for the kids. When we got there, we busted it out. I only knew one song but the kids totally flipped out! They were dancing and singing and kept asking me to play more. I just played the same song like 20 times. It seriously blew me away and was definitely one of the most rewarding musical experiences of my life because I had such a connection with these kids. I realized that the experience was not about my selfish artistic expression (which is still important), this time it was about bringing joy to people I care for. It was an eye opening experience and that memory sticks with me even more than performing in front of thousands.

So why the Cool Music Dad blog?

I’m on a journey, but so are you. I’m super dedicated to finding a way to pursue my musical passion and I’ve talked to lots of others just like me with the same hopes, dreams and desires. My goal with this blog is to share the journey along with guidance and inspiration to help you along yours. I’m not here to show off my successes, but I do think sharing my experiences will help you accomplish your creative goals. If you’re looking for a way to pursue your passion but keep saying “I’ll do it later”, “don’t have time”, “my kids” yadayadayada...well let's just set those aside for now. This is a place where creative people come to scratch that musical itch, and they do it by actually involving the important people in their life at the same time.

If you are a musician but struggling with the demands on your time, money and energy or you’ve always wanted to pick up an instrument but keep finding an excuse not to, you’re in the right place. Even if you don’t plan on creating or performing music in the near future, but want to learn how music helps you live a healthier more enriching life...this is the place for you. Here’s to a more fulfilling life of music, cheers!

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