What’s your sign? Aries
Most underrated song that, in your opinion, should be a classic? “Hey Nineteen” – Steely Dan
Biggest compliment you’ve ever gotten from a fan? “I really like what you are doing.”
Favorite piece to perform? I would have to say … the newest tune I am working on at the moment. It can be a cover or an original. It always feels good to do something fresh!
What do you sing in the shower? N/A (Ummm…who doesn’t sing in the shower, Dude?)
Favorite cereal? Frosted Mini Wheats + Cheerios
At what venue do you most like to perform? Tough question! I perform regularly at 20 + local businesses in Savannah, Tybee, Bluffton, Hilton Head, and Beaufort. I feel very blessed to have these longstanding relationships, and it would be hard to pick a favorite. I feel like I am a good fit everywhere I am performing these days, and it feels great to be appreciated for what I have to offer.
Most requested song at shows? The requests I get seem to be in the wheelhouse of what I am playing at that show. For example, if I am playing some Johnny Cash, someone may approach me and want to hear some “old country.” Also, I will get requests for some of the usual singing/guitarist songs. I’m happy to accommodate and hope it brings joy!
First concert you attended. Warped Tour
Favorite artist? Tom Petty
Place you go to get away from it all? The mountains in western North Carolina
Do you tweet, gram or book? What’s your handle?You can find me on Facebook and Instagram. @ MattEckstineMusic.
Who would star as you in the epic retelling of your life? A balding man with a beard
First instrument you learned to play? Trumpet, in fifth grade
Song you were thrilled to finally master? I do not believe in that concept. One must try to continue to learn. I am trying to be the best performer I can. I’m trying to get better at reading my environment and reacting tastefully—still working on it every day.
What do you wish you knew more about? Woodworking and DIY building projects
What animal do you most identify with? Cats
If you got super famous and had to change your name, what would your new name be? If I became famous in country music it would be Hurt Pensley because that sounds like it would be someone in country music. If I became famous in rock or pop music it would be DR. X & The Bad Medicine because that would be fun to create a new identity that was wild and weird.
What famous musician would you love to play/sing a duet with? Dolly Parton (QUEEN!)
Where can we watch you perform? I have a regular residency on Hilton Head Island at Sea Pines. Monday, I am at Harbourside Café; Tuesday, I am at The Beach Club. I do weekly posts on Facebook and Instagram where you can catch me live that week. My website has a full calendar of the current month for people who like to plan.
