Matt Tucker: Honoring Roots and Troops – A Country Music Journey with the South Carolina National Guard and a Laurens County Connection

Just up the road from Laurens County, in Rock Hill, South Carolina – a rising country singer and songwriter, Matt Tucker, has emerged as a musical force to be reckoned with. His story is woven with family ties and a strong military legacy. Born in 1985, Tucker began his musical journey in 2008, the same year his son was born, inspired by his father’s musical influence.

Besides making music, Tucker’s family has a history of military service. His maternal grandfather served in the Army Green Beret during WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, even participating in nuclear bomb testing. On the paternal side, Joe Tucker, Sr., served in the U.S. Army. These military connections influence Tucker’s appreciation for those who serve and are reflected in his patriotic song “American Dreamer.” Through his family history, Tucker not only finds inspiration but also a deep connection to the values of dedication and honor.

In 2013, Tucker stepped into a Nashville recording studio for the first time, collaborating with producer Pat Holt to create his first EP. This experience not only marked the beginning of his recording career but also solidified his understanding of the songwriting process and allowed him to establish valuable connections within the industry.

Fast forward to 2017, and Tucker’s solo project in the Charlotte area resulted in a 7-song EP, titled “Where Did You Go,” recorded at the renowned Unify Sound Labs in Fort Mill, SC, owned and operated by Landis Pearce. It was here that Tucker, now recognized as the first country artist to be recorded by Pearce, which helped to begin his mark on the country music scene.

On February 16, 2024, Matt Tucker released his first full-length album, “Untucked,” under Dirtified Records, a Nashville-based label created by Lenny Cooper. The title track, a love song that Tucker penned himself, serves as a centerpiece for the album. In total, Tucker wrote all but one of the album’s tracks, showcasing his dedication to authenticity and connection with the material.

One standout song from the album, “American Dreamer,” not only captures Tucker’s patriotism but also pays homage to the backbone of America—the middle-class workers and the troops who serve the nation. The accompanying video, featuring the South Carolina National Guard at McEntire Joint Air Base, highlights Tucker’s commitment to honoring those who sacrifice for their country. The video premiered on February 16, through the South Carolina National Guard official page with Aristo Media Nashville planning to air it on television in the future.

The SCNG public affairs office, led by Maj. Karla N. Evans, Public Affairs Director, South Carolina National Guard, played a crucial role in assisting Mr. Tucker in submitting his request for DoD production assistance for his video. “The American Dream video served as a powerful platform to showcase some of the South Carolina National Guard’s exceptional capabilities and also highlighted the unwavering commitment of its Soldiers and Airmen,” said Evans. “Setting the standard for strength, innovation, and resilience, the SCNG stands as an exceptional team of teams, always ready to triumph in increasingly complex environments.” Evans and her husband Don Evans, also a Veteran, are proud residents of Laurens County, adding local roots to this story.

Tucker’s background is as diverse as his music. In addition to his burgeoning music career, he owns a roofing company in the Rock Hill area. He got into roofing as a side gig then later started his own company and, today, both coexist, are flourishing and are vital aspects of his life. Reflecting on his blue-collar roots, Tucker emphasizes the importance of hard work and earning everything in life.

The album also features a track titled “Tiny Towns,” the only song Tucker didn’t write. The song has gained recognition as the theme for the Outdoor Channel’s new renovation show, “Renovation Hunters.” Tucker and his music are featured in both the first and second seasons of the show with plans of experiences in each season, further expanding his reach beyond the music scene.

Looking ahead, Tucker’s aspirations include performing at the Grand Ole Opry and supporting established artists on the big stage. His success is not only measured by musical achievements, but he also plans to continue growing his roofing company in the Rock Hill/Charlotte area, expanding to commercial roofing soon.

Reflecting on his life and the launch of “American Dreamer” Tucker had this to say, “Everybody wants what they want on their time, in reality we should realize it happens in God’s time.”

As he navigates the music industry and balances family life with a fiancée and two kids, Tucker remains grounded, understanding that success comes in God’s time. With the release of “Untucked,” Tucker is poised to make a lasting impact on the mainstream country industry.

Music lovers can access Matt Tucker’s latest album, “Untucked,” along with all the individual tracks, on any of the listening platforms. In addition to his recorded music, Tucker is set to bring his vibrant performances to the stage. Catch him at Coyote Joes in Charlotte, a renowned Southeast Top Country Night Club, on March 22. Later in April, he’ll be hitting the stage at the Come See Me Tailgate Festival, held at Winthrop Lake in Rock Hill on April 20. Don’t miss the chance to experience the charm and authenticity of Matt Tucker’s country tunes live.

Click HERE to learn more about Matt Tucker on his website.