Exclusive Interview with Pearl Matador

Artist Spotlight: Pearl Matador

French-Malian artist Pearl Matador has released “Neurotic,” the first single from his upcoming album Black Magic, arriving this November. Known for blending alternative rock and bedroom pop with raw emotional honesty, Pearl Matador uses “Neurotic” to explore the restless, dreamlike chaos of the mind while introducing the sonic world of his most ambitious project yet.

From early beginnings to global recognition, Pearl Matador shares a deeper look into the path that shaped them.

MusicsWeek: Who are your biggest musical influences?

Pearl Matador: Originally, I was a fan of rock and psychedelic bands like The Jimi Hendrix Experience, The Doors, Tame Impala, and The Strokes. But I’ve also been heavily influenced by more modern artists from the SoundCloud rap generation; XXXTENTACION is a great example. I love the DIY/bedroom approach those artists had at the beginning, and it has definitely shaped the way I approach music.

MusicsWeek: What non-musical influences (books, movies, art, etc.) inspire your work?

Pearl Matador: Mainly movies. I think film soundtracks are one of the best ways to discover new, interesting music and fresh inspiration. I have a soft spot for independent films, especially Sundance-style ones, and that’s the kind of atmosphere I try to capture when creating my new music videos.

MusicsWeek: Is there a particular song or album that has significantly influenced your career?

Pearl Matador: Drain You by Nirvana made me want to start making music.

MusicsWeek: How do your personal experiences shape your music?

Pearl Matador: I feel like the songs people connect with the most are the ones I write when I’m not doing well. So those are usually the ones I end up releasing.

MusicsWeek: Have your influences changed over the years?

Pearl Matador: I think I can enjoy almost any style of music (except techno, that’s just beyond me). For example, right now I’m really into old torch songs and cabaret singers. So yes, my influences have changed—and they keep changing all the time.

MusicsWeek: How do you incorporate your cultural background into your music?

Pearl Matador: I’m French… I don’t.

MusicsWeek: What role does nature or your environment play in your songwriting?

Pearl Matador: Honestly, I’m closer to a hikikomori than to a hiking enthusiast. Solitude is actually a recurring theme in my songs.

MusicsWeek: When did you first realize you wanted to be a musician?

Pearl Matador: The first time I entered the workforce, I quickly realized that the only thing I could see myself doing for 40 years without losing my mind was music.

MusicsWeek: What was the first song you ever wrote, and what inspired it?

Pearl Matador: It was a ukulele song called The Woods. It was about a teenage psychopath who takes a girl into the woods with the intention of killing her. The song was inspired by the series The End of the F**ing World*.

MusicsWeek: How did you get started in the music industry?

Pearl Matador: Pretty naturally. All I really want is to build a community around my music.