Matthew Joseph Mole, born on October 28, 1991, is a South African singer-songwriter who has made a significant mark in the music industry. Hailing from Cape Town, he gained recognition as the winner of the South African Music Awards Record of the Year in 2021, a testament to his growing influence in the music scene.
Early Life: Musical Beginnings in Fish Hoek
Matthew Mole's journey into music began in Fish Hoek, Cape Town. Under his father's guidance, he learned to play the guitar, which laid the foundation for his musical career. His talent extended to multiple instruments, including the ukulele, banjo, piano, organ, and drums. Mole started writing his own music towards the end of high school, focusing on blending lyrics, rhythm, and melody to craft his unique sound.
Educational Pursuits: Honing Skills in Music Production
In 2010, Mole took a significant step to advance his career by studying music production in Cape Town. This formal education helped him refine his approach to music-making, combining his innate talent with technical skills.
Early Career: From Independent EPs to Recognition
Matthew Mole's initial foray into the music world began with his independent EP "You Did Well, Kid," released online in 2011. His early works were available for free on the Internet, showcasing his generosity and desire to reach a broad audience. A significant breakthrough came in August 2012 when he won Converse's Get Out of the Garage competition.
This achievement led to a performance at London's 100 Club and a recording session in New York, followed by a contract with Just Music. His EP "Same Parts, Same Heart" further propelled his career, with its title track featuring in the film "Leading Lady."
Debut Album and Rising Fame
2013 marked a milestone in Mole's career with the release of his debut studio album, "The Home We Built." Produced by Matthew Fink, the album was a critical and commercial success, making Mole the first South African artist to top the iTunes SA chart on its release day. The album garnered multiple nominations, including Male Artist of the Year and Best Pop Album.
Continued Success: Subsequent Albums and Accolades
Mole's second album, "Run," released in 2016, and his third, "Ghost," in 2019, solidified his status in the music industry. "Run" quickly climbed to number 1 on South Africa's iTunes and achieved Gold Status. Both albums received nominations at the South African Music Awards, underscoring Mole's continued excellence.
Musical Style and Live Performances
Mole's music is a blend of folk and electronica, a style he terms "folktronica." His live performances are a spectacle, where he skillfully plays guitar, synth, kick drum, and triggered beats simultaneously. He has graced various festivals and stages across South Africa, the UK, the US, Thailand, and Russia.
Advocacy for Ocean Protection
In 2020, Mole and his wife Jess collaborated with Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and WILDTRUST, highlighting the importance of ocean conservation. Their involvement in this campaign demonstrates their commitment to environmental issues, extending Mole's influence beyond music.
Matthew Mole's journey in the music industry is marked by his versatile musical talent, commitment to environmental causes, and his ability to connect with audiences globally. His ascent in the music world reflects a blend of raw talent and a deep understanding of the power of music.
Matthew Mole - Always By My Side
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