High school teacher, 2026 BCCMA nominee, and BC country artist Matt Kennedy is stepping back into the spotlight with a renewed passion for music, storytelling, and live performance. After stepping away from music to raise his three kids, in 2024 Matt ended up reconnecting with his high school buddies for a random jam session and realized they were having way too much fun to just stop there. With 20 years of stories built up, why not take a serious second shot?
Rooted in country and driven by real-life experience, Matt brings an authentic, relatable approach to his music and an easygoing presence to the stage. He has been steadily making his mark within British Columbia’s country music community, performing at venues and events throughout the Fraser Valley and appearing as part of the 2026 Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair lineup.
September 2026 marked an exciting milestone with the release of Matt’s debut single, “Taking Chances.” The song officially arrived September 11 and serves as the introduction to a new collection of original music on the way.
For Matt, ‘Taking Chances’ is also a fitting title for this stage of his career — returning to music, putting original songs into the world, and taking another shot at something that has always been a part of him.
With his band back in action, new music underway and a growing presence on the BC country scene, Matt Kennedy is proving that sometimes the best chapters begin when you’re willing to take a chance.
Check out our October JR Artist of the Month, Matt Kennedy, and his song “Taking Chances” and listen for it all month long on JR Country!
