Conversations with Missy: Matt VanFossen
All of us experience pain and loss in life. Some of us more than others. For country artist Matt VanFossen, the loss of his young mother to a stroke in 2010 was tragic. At just 50 years old, the loss of his mother was not expected. That loss however, has helped mold him into the successful artist that he is today.
Celebrating his mother’s memory, VanFossen continues to credit her as his number one teacher (his number two teacher is the one and only Reba) as well as continues to share her story with others in order to spread awareness on the signs of a stroke. As part of his journey to help others through his own pain, VanFossen has created Dot Fest. With the help of other musicians, he has been able to spread awareness to help people learn how to prevent strokes as well as give them a way to get the medications they need to prevent them.
VanFossen first experienced music success with his song “Time Ain’t What It Used To Be”. Recalling his mother’s reaction when she heard her baby boy’s song on the radio was a touching moment. Hearing him describe these moments gave me chills. Listen to our conversation for the full story now.
Following that difficult time, VanFossen pushed on and continued to followed his dream. Knowing his mom would not want him to quit, he released the single “I Didn’t Come Here To Lose” in 2012. VanFossen then shared the stage with many greats in 2013 such as Miranda Lambert, Tim McGraw, Kip Moore, and Neal McCoy.
Fast forward to now, VanFossen began a Kickstarter campaign and exceeded 10 percent of his overall goal through fan contributions. That being a success in and of itself, VanFossen has released his latest single “Where You Gonna Run To Now” gaining the attention of many new fans across the globe and hitting radio stations everywhere. While this song has caused quite a buzz in the music world, it also serves as a personal victory for VanFossen. We spoke about the meaning behind the song and how others can easily relate to it. I encourage you to download it now as it is sure to make you want to put it on repeat while you are in the car, in your house or during your workout. This is definitely a “repeat worthy” song.
Please take the time to listen to our full conversation now and get to know this amazingly open, fun and real country artist. Follow him on social media and send him a shout out. ~Missy
About Missy Wolf
Co-Founder, Editor, Journalist & Vice President of the American Country Music AssociationFrom an early age I knew music and entertainment were in my blood. I have always been enamored with the idea of being in this industry, though I never wanted to be a front and center "Star". Taking the audience behind the scenes for up close conversations with the artists they love is where I want to be. Life in lyrics has always been my style, so as my favorite country artist Wade Hayes sings, I am living my life and chasing my dreams! Conducting interviews, meeting talented people and sharing stories and adventure are my passion. My new favorite hashtag is #iaskyouanswer, so stay tuned for more interviews, articles and adventures!
