A troubadour of truth, Nashville resident Crys Matthews is among the brightest stars of the new generation of social justice music-makers. An award-winning, prolific lyricist and composer, Matthews blends Country, Americana, Folk, Blues, and Bluegrass into a bold, complex performance steeped in traditional melodies punctuated by honest, original lyrics. She is made for these times.

Of Matthews, ASCAP VP & Creative Director Eric Philbrook says, “By wrapping honest emotions around her socially conscious messages and dynamically delivering them with a warm heart and a strong voice, she lifts our spirits just when we need it most in these troubled times.” Justin Hiltner of Bluegrass Situation adds, her gift is a “reminder of what beauty can occur when we bridge those divides.” In her own words, Matthews says her mission is: “to amplify the voices of the unheard, to shed light on the unseen, and to be a steadfast reminder that hope and love are the truest pathways to equity and justice.

“Nashville-based and award-winning artist-activist, Heather Mae, fearlessly writes with her ribcage exposed. With every lyric, Mae’s raw vulnerability and electrifying sound create a profound connection, reminding her audience they are never alone.

Mae’s live performances are a captivating blend of raw emotion and electrifying energy, having graced renowned venues like Joe’s Pub, Triple Door, and Swallow Hill over her decade-long touring career. Her talent has been recognized with victories at the 2017 Rocky Mountain Folks Fest Songwriter Showcase and the prestigious NERFA’s 2021 Artist-Activist of the Year award. In 2022, Mae raised an impressive $52,000 on Kickstarter, enabling her to produce not one, but two records. For her Alternative-Americana record, Mae collaborated with producer ZDAN, assembling a powerhouse band of women that included grammy-award winning Allison Russell and talented powerhouse duo,, Sistastrings. Meanwhile, the pop album counterpart delves into a vibrant indie-pop sound, co-produced by Mae herself and LOLLIES (Elle King and Timbaland). With both records set for a simultaneous release in 2025, Mae will be on everyone’s radar.