Meet Matthew Engst

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

Hi Matthew, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
The most important lesson my career has taught me is that business, just like life, has “seasons.” There are times when it feels like the winter will never end. But patience, self-belief, and persistence are key. Just as winter eventually gives way to spring and summer, tough times will pass, leading to periods of growth and success. Stay resilient and trust in the process.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been involved in music all my life. I started playing piano as a kid, and it just kind of came naturally to me. As a teenager, I played synth in bands and eventually moved to Los Angeles to become a full-time musician. My career path led me to becoming a producer and artist. I started an electro-pop band with my now-wife, and we recorded an album in Sweden. There, we were introduced to some of the most successful producers in the industry. Like many bands, we didn’t make it, but the experience introduced me to the world of music production and songwriting.

I transitioned from being a musician to a producer and have never looked back. Throughout my career, I’ve produced in various genres, from pop and hip-hop to reggae, and even worked on a Michael Bublé Christmas song. My current passion is house music, which is my favorite to produce. I’m part of a DJ project called Haddadi Von Engst, and we had a number one hit on Beatport. We’re now releasing music on one of the biggest labels in the house scene, Diynamic.

Maintaining a career in music requires a deep love for what you do. It’s not always easy, but with consistency and hard work, it eventually pays off. The key to overcoming challenges is to take action. While I’m not always perfect at it, I’ve found that the universe rewards those who take action. I often think of Epictetus’ quote, “persist and resist,” which helps guide me. Be persistent and stay disciplined—these principles have been crucial in my journey.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Since I live in LA, there are so many things to do and places to explore. I’d steer clear of the typical tourist attractions and opt for more unique experiences. I’d take them to a show at the Hollywood Bowl, a movie night at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, and definitely to one of LA’s amazing taco trucks. We’d hit the beach for some volleyball and, of course, my favorite activity—a night out at the Comedy Store. Realistically, I’m not the best planner or host, so we probably wouldn’t fit all those activities in. Most likely, we’d have a great dinner at my favorite restaurant in the Laurel Canyon area, Pace, followed by a night of comedy.

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?
I dedicate this to the women in my life: my wife, my mom, my sister, and my mother-in-law. Choosing a career in music has its challenges, and these women have always believed in me. They never questioned or discouraged me from following my unconventional career path. Their unwavering support has meant the world to me.