Jersey native Matt White got his start singing on street corners from Manhattan to Madison, WI where he went to college. A beachy singer-songwriter, White’s persistence paid off when he got picked up by a major label, a dream come true. Now, well on his way to the top, we’ve captured him and strapped him down to our Hot Seat to study what it is that makes him so great. See for yourself…
Q: Tell us about your craziest touring experience.
A: While on tour with Lifehouse in Lexington, KY we got stuck in the middle of a hail storm while at the venue during soundcheck. The guys from Lifehouse were on their bus and we were on our RV and for 15 minutes straight, hail the size of giant golf balls came down and broke the skylight of our RV. The hail was so strong it was shattering the windshields of cars in the parking lot, dented hoods and smashed all of the lights on our trailer. And then as soon as it started, it was over.
Q: What type of college class would you’d most want to take and why?
A: Business, because it’s important for me to understand how to run my own company.
Q: What city in America is the most fun to visit and why?
A: Los Angeles, because it’s like my second home. I love the beach and warm weather and I love to see all of my friends that live out there.
Q: What’s some of the best advice you were ever given?
A: To walk away from every show learning something new for the next one.
Q: What’s in heavy rotation in your MP3/CD player right now?
A: Bruce Springsteen Born To Run, The Beatles White Album, Jordin Sparks Tatoo, Common Finding Forever, Regina Spektor Begin To Hope.
Q: The last good book you read or TV show you’re addicted to.
A: The Office and Flight of the Concords.
Q: What’s the first concert you ever saw - how was it?
A: Bruce Springsteen when I was 7 years old. Watching Bruce’s energy on stage blew me away.
Q: What are three items you can’t live without on tour?
A: Computer, Blackberry and toothbrush.
Q: Who are your major musical influences?
A: Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Led Zepplin, Sheryl Crow, Jeff Buckley and Nick Drake.
Q: Any random messages or tips you’d like to give to mtvU watchers?
A: Pain is temporary. Quitting lasts forever.
