Matt Davis, a songwriter, musician, and music therapist from Saint Louis, Missouri, has been a cornerstone of the local rock and blues scene for over 30 years. As an accomplished bass player, vocalist, pianist, and songwriter, he exemplifies versatility and range. Drawing from a rich tapestry of influences, Matt has cultivated a distinctive songwriting style that seamlessly blends tradition with originality, earning him recognition as both a skilled musician and a captivating entertainer.

As a teenager, he discovered the music of the 50s and 60s through its revival in the punk scene of the 70s and 80s, particularly through iconic bands like the Sex Pistols. His fascination with Sid Vicious, coupled with learning to play bass and write songs as part of a punk band in the 80s, fueled a deep passion for early rock 'n' roll and rockabilly music. While punk drew its roots from the cultural shifts of the late 50s and 60s, it ultimately became the vehicle that transported him back to the era where he felt he truly belonged.

With only AM radio in his first car, his passion for the music of that era continued to flourish—expanding into early country and gospel. Icons like Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, Chuck Berry and Roger Miller, became his lifeblood, as he fully immersed himself in the rhythms of rockabilly, country, and gospel music. His devotion to the genre even took him to Memphis, TN, for a short stint as an Elvis impersonator.

His love for performing, paired with an unrelenting curiosity for exploring diverse musical styles and genres, inspired him to pursue a degree in music performance. After college, Matt toured and recorded with several prominent bands from the Saint Louis area, further honing his craft and expanding his musical horizons. Adding yet another dimension to his musical expertise, he earned a degree in music therapy, blending his artistic talents with a deeper purpose.

Though his music career has evolved over the years, his unwavering passion for American roots music remains steady. To celebrate and preserve the sounds that have always resonated deeply with him, he founded The Lucky Old Sons in 2009—a band dedicated to honoring the timeless music of the 1950s and 60s. In their all-original albums Friendly Valley and WTF in the STL, The Lucky Old Sons’ influences are clear, yet the blend of quirky lyrics and a uniquely offbeat sense of humor makes each track feel authentic, spirited, and brimming with optimism.

Songs like "A.F.M.” and "Quiet Sensitive Songs," might make you laugh out loud, while more sentimental tracks like “Friendly Valley” and "Still Number One," (a touching tribute to cool jazz vocalist June Christy), seem to invite you to croon along.

Matt's deep connection to music history shines in “St. Louisian” and “Memphis Thing,” as he celebrates the cities that influenced his upbringing and were home to so many rock-n-roll legends. Adding a playful, modern twist to nostalgic vibes, tracks like “Orange Pickin’ Time” and “WTF in the STL” transport listeners to a lively 1950s sock hop but infused with wit and humor that keeps the experience fresh, relevant, and fun.

Outside of writing songs for The Lucky Old Sons, Matt plays bass in All Roostered Up, where he is able to showcase more of his original songs. He also writes music as part of his work in music therapy and continues to create and play songs he hopes will connect with people of all ages and backgrounds. 

 

Explore more of his original music on his YouTube channel, the Lucky Old Sons YouTube channel, or stream via Bandcamp, Apple Music, Spotify, or your favorite streaming platform.