Matthew followill
- Early Life and Family
- Musical Influences and Inspirations
- Formation of Kings of Leon
- Early Success and Breakthrough
- International Recognition and Acclaim
- Personal Life and Collaborations
- Musical Style and Legacy
- Accolades and Recognition
Early Life and Family
Matthew Followill was born on September 10, 1984, in Nashville, Tennessee. His father, Ivan Followill, is a retired pastor, and his mother, Lynn Followill, is a homemaker. Matthew has two older brothers, Caleb and Jared, and a younger sister, Abigail. The Followill family is very musical, and Matthew began playing the guitar at a young age. He attended Brentwood High School in Tennessee, where he met his future bandmates, Caleb and Jared Followill, and Nathan Followill. Matthew and his brothers formed the band Kings of Leon in 1999.
Musical Influences and Inspirations
Matthew Followill credits a diverse range of musical influences for shaping his guitar playing and songwriting. Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix are among his earliest inspirations, with their raw energy and innovative techniques captivating him. As he delved deeper into music, he also embraced the Southern rock sounds of Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Allman Brothers Band, and The Black Crowes, admiring their bluesy riffs and soaring melodies. Followill's eclectic musical tastes have resulted in a unique and distinctive guitar style that blends classic rock sensibilities with modern rock influences, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary.
Formation of Kings of Leon
Matthew Followill co-founded Kings of Leon in 1999 with his brothers, Caleb and Nathan, and their cousin, Cameron. The band's name originated from their father's church in Nashville, Tennessee, called the Kings of Leon. Inspired by a blend of Southern rock and gospel music, the band initially gained attention with their raw and energetic live performances and released their debut album, "Youth and Young Manhood," in 2003.
Early Success and Breakthrough
Matthew Followill's musical journey began at an early age, with his first guitar being a Christmas gift at the age of 10. His passion for music grew steadily, and he spent countless hours practicing and honing his skills. By his teenage years, he had formed a band with his brothers, and their raw talent and infectious energy quickly gained recognition in their hometown of Nashville. The band's breakthrough moment came in 2005 when they released their debut album, "Aha Shake Heartbreak." The album was a critical and commercial success, propelling the band to stardom and establishing Matthew as one of the most promising guitarists of his generation.
International Recognition and Acclaim
Kings of Leon's international recognition and acclaim began to surge after the release of their third album, "Because of the Times". The album's lead single, "Sex on Fire", became a global hit, reaching the top 10 in numerous countries and earning the band their first Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. This success propelled Kings of Leon to become one of the most popular rock bands in the world, headlining major festivals and selling out arenas globally.
Personal Life and Collaborations
Matthew Followill is married to Johanna Bennett, a model and photographer. They have three children together. In addition to his work with Kings of Leon, Matthew has collaborated with other artists, including Shooter Jennings, Ashley Monroe, and Sturgill Simpson. He is also a member of the supergroup the Dead Weather.
Musical Style and Legacy
Matthew Followill's guitar playing is characterized by melodic riffs and heavy distortion. He often uses a slide guitar, contributing to the band's signature sound. The band's music has been influenced by a wide range of genres, including Southern rock, alternative rock, and blues. Their lyrics often explore themes of love, loss, and redemption. Kings of Leon have received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, Brit Awards, and an Ivor Novello Award. They have sold over 20 million albums worldwide, making them one of the most successful bands of the 21st century.
Accolades and Recognition
Matthew Followill has received numerous accolades for his exceptional guitar playing and songwriting skills. In 2010, he was ranked #91 on Rolling Stone's list of the "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time." He has also been recognized by the Grammy Awards, where Kings of Leon won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance for the song "Use Somebody" in 2010. Additionally, Followill has received praise from critics and fellow musicians for his innovative and soulful style, solidifying his place as one of the most influential guitarists in modern rock music.