Interview: Hamilton, ON Songwriter Matty Simpson Blends Punk Energy and Roots Rock Storytelling on Restless New Single “Explode”

Hamilton, Ontario singer-songwriter and guitarist Matty Simpson shares “Explode,” a restless, emotionally charged single that blends the raw energy of grunge and punk with the introspective storytelling of Americana and roots rock. Caught between exhilaration and uncertainty, the track explores the overwhelming nature of love and the fear of surrendering control.

Inspired by a period of listening to both heavier rock bands and introspective singer-songwriters, “Explode” emerged from Simpson’s desire to bridge those musical worlds. The title comes from the lyric, “you made my heart explode,” capturing feelings so powerful that they become both beautiful and destabilizing.

“It was an attempt to write a love song and be more positive during a phase where I was writing mostly about sadness and heartbreak,” Simpson explains. “It ended up being about someone who is so deeply in love, that it is debilitating and even self-destructive. Love can be that way, too. Love is complex and so is writing about it.”

That emotional push and pull shapes the song’s arrangement. Its heavier, grunge-inspired passages contrast with quieter moments that leave room for reflection. One of Simpson’s favourite lyrics, “Hey, don’t talk so loud, I’m trying to hear the softest sound,” arrives after a loud chorus crescendo, creating a shift that emerged naturally during the songwriting process.

“I think it has a great dynamic effect that was never planned and was discovered after the song was in existence,” he shares.

Despite its heavier influences, “Explode” follows Simpson’s commitment to keeping the songwriting at the forefront. Inspired by the directness of artists like Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and Nirvana, he favours arrangements that deliver emotional impact without unnecessary embellishment.

“The song has to come first and be great on its own,” Simpson explains.

“Explode” appears on his upcoming full-length album, Sky Breaks at Dawn, which explores healing, love, perseverance, and the passage of time. Across the record, he considers the tension between uncertainty and acceptance, recognizing that time can offer both renewal and decline. Within that larger narrative, “Explode” reflects the importance of embracing life’s experiences, even when their outcomes remain unknown.

1. What did you enjoy most about creating this new release?

I really feel like we had the right people in the room when we made this track and the entire record. Everyone’s tastes stylistically, combined with the style of songwriting, seemed to make the creation process effortless. It was like everyone knew what had to happen and we just did it.

2. Share a nugget of advice that has resonated with you most over the years.

You can’t please everyone, so you should just do whatever makes you happy. “All I can do is be me, whoever that is.” (Bob Dylan)

3. Who would be your dream artist or band to co-headline a tour with?

Matty Simpson / Hendrika world tour, featuring Justine the Bass Machine

4. What sets your music apart from others in your genre?

I feel blessed because my music is able to go many different places. It doesn’t have to be confined to a genre. It’s built on emotion and story rather than just style.

5. Tell us your favourite song at the moment and why.

“Being Around You” by Hendrika

I can connect to this song like it was something I’d written. (I wish had). I feel like I’ve experienced the emotion and story that’s being told. Like I’m visiting an old friend in some nostalgic universe. Very emotional tune.