How many songwriters are working to get their material into the right hands? A lot. How many in New York? Tons. L.A.? Nashville? Again... too many to name. So what would separate someone from Omaha, Nebraska in the eyes and ears of a decision maker looking for a song for their artist to perform, or for someone to co-write with an aspiring artist about to break?
Consistency.
In the words of Jack Black, anyone can "Zipodee dooda" you a song. Any writer could sit down and stumble on a good idea that could eventually produce a good tune. But when looking at the career of Matthew Banta, one can easily deduce that he has put years of his heart and soul, hell even some blood and guts, into his craft as a songwriter. Happy to accept input and open to working with others, Banta shows that he is really more about the song than about taking the credit...
As for credits, Banta has written the material for 5 independently released records over the span of the last 10 years, and one thing that is clear. Banta writes with a strong sense of melody and phrasing that is rare. Lyrically he can go from shallow to deep and through a myriad of emotions, and sometimes the imagery and metaphor are thick. In a variety of styles, modes, and structures, Banta has developed into a sterling writer with the ability to truly capture an idea and bring it home to the listener within the medium of song.
As for numbers, Matt has sold upwards of 17000 records independently, had thousands of spins on regional radio, and played concerts to crowds throughout the Midwest.
But there is more to this than numbers. There is a craftsmanship and an ability to adapt and create that cannot be taught, and a consistently strong sense of cohesion in Banta's work. "I try to judge my material by my worst song among a batch of new material," Banta said, "If my worst song now is better than my best song from a year ago, then I am getting better as a writer." As one goes through Banta's catalog of material, that growth is not difficult to see.
If you are interested in hearing more material from Matt, please email him at matthewjbanta(at)yahoo(dot)com