I am writing this to share something that has been a long time coming. Most of you know that I have been playing music my whole life, but up until now, it has mostly been a private pursuit shared around campfires (unless you happened to see Bluelight at Viva Cantina, of course). Starting this month, I am taking that work onto the public stage.
Yes, it is still me, Pete Matthew... you know the guy in the picture (😉😉). I am finally stepping out from the firelight and bringing these songs to a wider audience.
What is The High Country Dispatch?
Since I’m not very enthusiastic about social media, I created this newsletter as a delivery vehicle for my new project I’m calling Music from the High Country. It is the central hub to keep my inner circle and new friends updated on everything happening with my music. By staying subscribed to the Dispatch, you will be the first to know about:
Show Dates: You will get direct updates on where and when I am playing out as I move from the campfire to the stage.
New Music Releases: I will be dropping new covers on YouTube every Tuesday and Friday alongside a monthly original song, all delivered to your inbox in a weekly (or so) roundup.
Behind the Scenes: Short stories from the mountains where this music is born.
My goal is to capture the "wood and wire" sound of the California mountain ranges and share it with you directly through this newsletter. If you know someone who might be interested, forward this email along to them so they can Join the Dispatch.
Where to Find the Music
You can follow along at the links below to see the latest videos and updates:
YouTube Channel: Pete Matthew Music
The Website: petematthewmusic.com
First Original: "Why Is It So Damn Hard?"
I recently released my first original song of this project on YouTube. It is a single-take acoustic performance about the resilience required to keep pushing forward. You can watch the video here:
Booking and Shows: Big Bear and NELA
I am currently in the process of booking solo acoustic gigs for the 2026 season. I am focusing specifically on venues in Big Bear Lake and NELA (North East Los Angeles). I will send out specific dates and locations through this newsletter as soon as they are confirmed.
A Note on Your Inbox
I have added you to this list because you have been a part of my journey so far. However, I know how important it is to protect your inbox. I probably won’t send dispatches more than once per week, but if you are not interested in receiving these updates, please do not hesitate to use the unsubscribe link at the bottom. There are absolutely no hurt feelings.
If you know anyone else who might enjoy this style of music, please feel free to forward this email to them. They can Join the Dispatch officially by using the signup link on the website.
I plan to send the first official update soon. Thanks for the support as I take this from the campfire to the stage.
-Pete Matthew
