Jan Mattys to grace the stage as solo artist
He is looking forward to releasing his very first single as a solo artist, Eerste Soen, which was written with the help of a former band mate.
From being the voice of several bands over the years, local artist, Jan-Mattys van Lill is now focused on establishing his own voice for the first time in his music career.
For Jan – better known to his peers as Jannie – it was love at first try when he discovered his powerful voice at the mere age of six.
“I have always had a love for singing. Thanks to my grandparents who really saw potential in me, I was afforded the opportunity to attend vocal lessons. Even though they are not with us anymore, I will forever remain thankful for that opportunity as I wouldn’t have come this far without it,” he said.
Jannie has been the lead singer of various bands, including the Ghoema award-winning Afrikaans pop rock music group Tussen Sterre. Unfortunately the popular band had ceased to exist due to various circumstances.
In the meantime he has established his own music school, JM Music Academy where he gives vocal, piano and guitar lessons. According to Jannie, a big part of his passion is being able to help develop another musicians’ skills.
“Apart from the music school, I am now focused on establishing my own brand as a musician. I never even thought about going solo, but when the opportunity presented itself, I decided to take the bull by the horns. I am excited to announce that I will now be officially gracing local stages as Jan Mattys,” he said.
“Although I am still finding my feet as a solo artist, I know what type of music I want to put out there. I hope to give my listeners somewhat of an old-school 1970s vibe, but in Afrikaans, which is my home language. I absolutely love singing in my home language.”
He is looking forward to releasing his very first single as a solo artist, Eerste Soen, which was written last August with the help of a former band mate, Johan van Dyk.
Jannie and a friend are also experimenting with a cover band called Let Go, which is only in its beginner phase. Listeners can look forward to a singe from them before the end of the year.
“Making music is all about creating that feeling, which words alone cannot necessarily achieve. When people listen to my music, I want them to feel what they cannot yet put into words.”
Jannie hopes to tour the country as a solo artist one day, and when asked what advice he would give upcoming artists, he said, “Music is not an easy industry. If you are not willing to pour your blood, sweat and tears into it, it might not be for you. You should be willing to give your everything.”
When he is not on stage, he is living another passion – aa a personal trainer. Since he has always enjoyed being fit and healthy, he finds pleasure in physically training others, helping them become the best version of themselves.
If you want to follow Jan Mattys on his journey, you will find him on Facebook (Jan Mattys), Instagram (@jan_mattys91) and TikTok (@jan_28_mattys).
