Stream “Be Something Real” HERE
Rising local artist Matt Shaw returns with his deeply personal new single, Be Something Real. This emotionally charged release follows the success of Why Why Why, which climbed to No. 4 on the Algoa FM Top 30, and further cements Shaw’s reputation as one of the country’s most promising pop-folk storytellers.
At its core, Be Something Real is a “one that got away” anthem—written from a place of longing and quiet hope. Inspired by a real-life connection that flickered in and out of Matt’s life over several years, the track explores the fragile beauty of what could have been. “From the moment we met, it felt like this truly could have been something real,” says Matt. “But every time things start to look positive, we are ripped apart.”
This new single also marks Matt’s first collaboration with producer Sloani, with the two artists working remotely between Gqeberha and Johannesburg. Despite the distance, the chemistry was instant. “I was absolutely blown away by what Sloani sent me straight off the bat,” says Matt. “They took something that meant so much to me and made it even more special.” The pair are already working on a follow-up single for later this year.
Matt’s ability to translate vulnerability into sound is what sets him apart. Drawing inspiration from artists like Noah Kahan, Benson Boone, Brendon Urie, and Will Linley, his music blends raw emotion with catchy pop-folk sensibilities. From heartbreak to hope, Shaw crafts songs that accompany listeners through the highs and lows of life.
Having already shared stages with top-tier acts like Roan Ash, Will Linley, and Jeremy Loops, Matt continues to captivate live audiences with his honest lyrics and infectious stage presence. In fact, performing Be Something Real for the first time was a turning point. “It was the first time I truly believed I could make a career out of music,” he reflects.
With Be Something Real, Matt Shaw invites fans new and old to experience love, loss, and longing in its most sincere form. And who knows—maybe one day, someone will propose during a performance of this song. That’s the dream, after all.
Stream “Be Something Real” HERE
[Cover artwork for “Be Something Real”]
Photo credit – Kirsten Pretorius
Matt Shaw Socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557460496412&mibextid=eQY6cl
Instagram: https://instagram.com/mattshawmusic
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattshawmusic?_t=ZM-8vYDeJWkbqf&_r=1
