Singer-songwriter Matt Andersen is on his way to western Canada with his “Put the Jolly In Your Holly” tour. We asked him about his favourite Christmas tunes, holiday traditions, and musical influences.
What can people expect on the “Put the Jolly In Your Holly” tour?
The show will be myself and my massively talented pal, Kim Dunn, sharing an intimate night of tunes. I’ll be playing some of my holiday favourites along with whatever else comes to mind. We’ve been doing these shows for a few years now and I’ve come really look forward to them every year.
Do you have a favourite Christmas or holiday song to perform?
“O Holy Night” has always been a special one for me. I first sang it on tour with Stuart McLean and The Vinyl Cafe. Those tours were what sparked the idea of doing my own Christmas shows. I also love to sing “Spirit of Christmas” by Ray Charles. It’s on the National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation soundtrack, such a great song. One of my dad’s faves.
Who are your strongest musical influences?
My grandfather was a big one for me. The house was always full of music. My first experiences of live music were in the living room and kitchen with him and his friends playing for hours on end. On the more popular side, I was kind of at the mercy of my older brother’s tape collection. John Fogerty of CCR has always been at the top of my list. The ultimate triple threat of singer, songwriter, and guitar player.
What are you working on next?
I just wrapped up recording a new album in the fall. Josh Van Tassel produced this one. We recorded at my own studio. It’s an acoustic-driven album which is something I haven’t done for a while. It was an absolute blast to record, all live off the floor.
What is your best Christmas memory?
When I was younger Christmas was a time when it really felt like the world slowed down for a few days. Mum and Dad didn’t have to work and the house had a constant rotation of friends and family dropping in. Having a drink by the tree with lights on was always, and still is, one of my favourite things to do.
Matt Andersen’s “Put the Jolly In Your Holly” tour stops in Medicine Hat, Fort Macleod, Fort Saskatchewan, St. Albert, Banff, and Red Deer this December. Find all the details at stubbyfingers.ca
