Cleveland, Ohio may be the “rock and roll capital of the world,” but indie rocker, Matt Miller, has been fast-tracking his rock career in Nashville, Tennessee and will be releasing an album this winter containing collaborations with Motley Cru’s John Corabi and legendary Stax guitarist, Steve Cropper.

So how did a serious rocker find his way to the “Music City?”

“I didn’t choose Nashville,” says Miller, “Nashville chose me.”

Miller had placed songs he had recorded with his high school band on a music website.  A consultant heard the music, and was so impressed that she arranged a meeting with Nashville artist manager, Sharon Dennis of Dennis Management.

“Matt was no longer being challenged in Cleveland,” says Dennis. “He wanted to grow and diversify his talent. My main objective was to elevate Matt’s proficiency as a regional artist to an artist with global appeal.”

Under Dennis’ guidance, Miller has developed into a powerhouse vocalist and an exceptional songwriter.

“I was skeptical at first,” Miller explains. “I was unsure and nervous about working in Nashville.  Everyone assumes that Nashville is all country, but when you get there, you see the diversity of the musical talent in town. It’s really been a transformative experience!”

Nashville is finally being recognized for it musical diversification.  Although it is still the nation’s country capital, Nashville is nurturing a viable and exciting rock scene.   The area is home to an array of rock heavyweights including Jack White, Kings of Leon, Peter Frampton, plus members of Cinderella, Night Ranger and Winger. In fact, more artists record in Nashville than any other city in the world!

Dennis tapped into this diverse talent pool as she assembled Miller’s development team.  She arranged for Matt to record with celebrated producer, Kent Wells, known for his work with Dolly Parton, Reba, Kenny Rogers and others.  But she also sought out producer Eddie Gore, who arranged for Miller to co-write with both Steve Cropper and John Corabi.

"When I first reviewed Matt’s music from his Alternative Rock band Shred Rot, he had a tremendous believability in his writing, in his delivery as a vocalist, and as a performing artist,” Dennis continues.

Shred Rot was the band that Miller founded in high school with his buddies, Scott Drazdik and Nick Reinmann. After the band broke up, Miller decided he wanted to move forward as a solo artist.  “Being in a band is very different from playing solo,” say Miller. “But the solo experience has helped me grow as an artist, evolve as a songwriter, and develop my artistry.”

“Writing with people like Steve Cropper and John Corabi has been an unforgettable learning experience.  I’m learning about the craft of songwriting – from legendary songwriters, and I’m learning about the industry from musicians who have navigated it for years.  All of this has had a huge influence on me.  It is monumental to have someone like Steve Cropper and John Corabi to look up to!”

www.mattmillerband.com

www.facebook.com/mattmillerband

www.twitter.com/mathieumiller