Matthews Ntlele (en-CLEH-leh) is a South African-born singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his powerful, soul-stirring vocals, raw intensity, and genre-defying artistry. His ability to effortlessly transition from delicate melodies to commanding, full-throttle belts gives his music a sense of urgency, emotion, and undeniable presence.

His sound doesn’t fit neatly into one box, he writes and performs music that moves him, rather than following industry trends. For MATTHEWS, music is a deeply personal and spiritual experience, shaped by what inspires him in the moment. He views the creative process as a way to translate emotion into melody, harmony, and lyrics, allowing them to work together like a symphony to communicate something greater than words alone.

MATTHEWS’ earliest connection to music was deeply rooted in the church, where the power of worship and live instrumentation surrounded him. It was in those moments that his love for music was born.

At 12 years old, MATTHEWS’ fascination with guitar began after watching the movie Camp Nowhere, where one of the characters played a blue electric guitar. The image stayed with him, sparking a deep longing to have one of his own. Though his family had limited financial means, his mother found a way to surprise him with a blue guitar, leaving it on his bed, a moment of unexpected joy and sacrifice that marked a turning point in his musical journey. While guitar was secondary to his early church influences, this experience ignited a newfound love for the instrument, opening doors to new ways of creating and expressing himself musically.

MATTHEWS first gained widespread recognition as a lead vocalist and songwriter for Elevation Worship, where he co-wrote and performed on several RIAA-certified worship anthems, including Here as in Heaven (Platinum - Single) and Here as in Heaven (Gold - Album, Elevation Worship’s first RIAA-certified album). He also co-wrote Resurrecting (Gold - Single, Elevation Worship’s first RIAA-certified single) and Echo (Gold - Single). His work during this time cemented his reputation as a gifted songwriter and powerhouse vocalist, shaping the next phase of his career.

Following his time with Elevation Worship, MATTHEWS signed with Curb Records as a songwriter, contributing to a range of projects across the industry. He later signed a multi-album deal as an artist, setting the stage for his solo career.

Now, with his forthcoming debut solo album, The Darkest Light, MATTHEWS steps into a new chapter of artistic exploration. His journey of sobriety has profoundly impacted both his life and his music, giving him a renewed sense of clarity, creativity, and authenticity. His guitar playing is woven throughout his work, alongside contributions from Cory Wong, Eric Walls, and Ella Feingold, complementing his signature powerhouse vocals and the deeply emotional storytelling in his music.

Whether through soaring anthems or stripped back moments of vulnerability, MATTHEWS’ artistry is rooted in a desire to create music that deeply resonates music that connects, uplifts, and inspires. His vision has always been to craft songs with the ability to shift the atmosphere, transforming a moment, a mindset, or even an entire room, and bringing light into spaces that need it most.

Beyond music, MATTHEWS is a storyteller, a creative visionary, and an artist whose music captures the depth of struggle and the hope of change. His work is a testament to resilience, vulnerability, and faith, inviting listeners into an experience that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.