Meet Herman Matthews

We had the good fortune of connecting with Herman Matthews and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Herman, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve always wanted to start my own band, and play music that I thought people would like to hear from a group of musician at the top of their game. SO MANY of the bands play the same songs, so I decided to play my favorite “B” cuts, along with original songs to make Phatback, Earl & Me! somewhat unique.

Now as far as being a musician, that’s another thing…

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In an industry where there are many, and i do mean many incredible, and amazing musicians that play drums, that’s a very difficult question to answer. When I moved to Los Angeles from Houston, the drummers that I admired living in town were all on the road. I’ve always had a good feel, and able to latch on to the feel of others. I honed on the feel/groove, and made it my mission to do it better than any other. Of course that’s impossible, so I just tried to be the best that I could be. I mean after all, a drummer with good time, a good feel, along with tasty fills should be able to work! I was fortunate to have those gifts. With those gifts, I’ve traveled the world and still get a kick out of watching people react to the thing that I do. I love it when one is bobbing their head, tapping their feet, clapping their hands, or even dancing as if nobody’s watching.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Hmmm… So many friends with different interests. Let’s say it’s my wife, and we’re out to have a special week. We’re both “Foodies” so I’ll start with a Sunday. We’ll jump on the Harley and head to Sunset Bl. for this great breakfast spot called Mille’s Cafe. From there we head to PCH and cruise Malibu, then have lunch at Neptune’s Net. then continue up the coast… Monday, we’ll head to Santa Barbara, CA for lunch to Flor de Maiz along side the water front. and that evening maybe take in a movie. Tuesday, Dinner at David Chang’s restaurant Majordomo, after that drinks and entertainment at Verses in Toluca Lake.
Wed. maybe a trip to the Valley Relics Museum, in Lake Balboa, CA. Thursday we’ll take a trip to San Diego, CA and spend the day, because my wife went to San Diego State… So she’ll reminisce. Friday, let’s hope there’s a Dodgers game, GO BLUE!!!! Saturday, a home cooked meal at home. The menu: Oven baked salmon over vegetables, with a mixed green salad, Garlic bread, and maybe a Blueberry-Lemon Loaf cake for desert. Now back to Sunday, lets make that a day of rest, sitting by our pool, and do absolutely nothing!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Wow, there are so many people, and situations that are responsible. My family of course who have always been supportive. My grandmother bought me my first drum set. My mom played piano and organ in the church. My uncle also played organ, and at a young age, I played in his Organ Trio.
In my Jr. High, or middle school years, I had an amazing teacher, her name Ann C. Price. A strong, no nonsense teacher that made sure you understood the reason you were there. She was responsible, and had a hand in me attending Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan. Then came my High School years, and I was fortunate to have gotten into the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (HSPVA) in Houston, TX under the guidance of Doctor Robert Morgan. Both he and Ann Price prepared me for what i would consider a pretty solid career in music.

Website: https://linktr.ee/phatbackband

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilherman321/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/phatbackearlandme

Image Credits
Marie Gregorio-Oviedo
Bryan Ferguson