Soulful singer-songwriter MATTHEWS launches his Curb Records debut, The Darkest Light, today (12/5) — listen HERE.
With The Darkest Light, MATTHEWS embarks on a bold solo experiment, which features feel-good original “Don’t Stop ’Til,” the bluesy “Broken Forever” and the moving title cut. Drawing from a unique musical palette that seamlessly blends soul, R&B, funk, jazz, Gospel and worship, the South African artist introduces a sound that’s all his own across his inaugural LP. From the spoken-word poetry of “The Cave” to his reverent cover of James Huey’s “When I Think About The Lord,” MATTHEWS’ artistic versatility is evident. His warm, clear tone and lyrical depth illuminate the project’s 10 tracks, offering hope to the weary soul.
“My heart’s desire was to record an album that is a reflection of my own transformation, a reminder that even in the most difficult seasons, there is always grace, always light; and there is always redemption. Behind these lyrics is a lived story of healing. Sometimes all you need is that little moment of hope to make it through another day,” MATTHEWS shares. “Those who have walked through the deepest valleys often shine the brightest light — not their own, but the light of God moving through them. Each and every one of us are bearers of light, and even on the days that you feel like you’re the darkest light, let that light shine. Someone needs it.”
With his earliest connection to music deeply rooted in the church, the emerging musician previously co-wrote and contributed vocals to RIAA Platinum-certified hit “Here As In Heaven” and Gold-certified singles “Resurrecting” and “Echo,” cementing his reputation as a gifted songwriter and powerful singer. Now, he’s stepping into a new era as a solo artist, melding his diverse musical influences with his honest, conversational lyrical style to create authentic, hopeful art that reminds listeners light can always be found — even in the darkest of moments.
Stream or purchase The Darkest Light HERE. Follow MATTHEWS’ journey on Instagram @matthewsphere.
The Darkest Light Tracklisting
- “Don’t Stop ’Til” (Matthews Ntlele, Tedd T.)
- “Hallelu” (Matthews Ntlele, Tedd T., Danny Lopez)
- “Broken Forever” (Matthews Ntlele, Tedd T., Michael Farren)
- “A Power That Is Greater” (Matthews Ntlele, Mark Campbell, Ben Fuller)
- “The Cave” (Matthews Ntlele, Tedd T.)
- “The Darkest Light” (Matthews Ntlele, Michael Farren, Benji Cowart)
- “The Sweetness of What Is” (Matthews Ntlele, Michael Farren, Mark Heimermann)
- “Hang In There” (Matthews Ntlele, Tedd T., Alex Pappas)
- “There Will Be Joy” (Matthews Ntlele, Andrew Bergthold, Benji Cowart)
- “When I Think About The Lord” (James Huey)
About MATTHEWS:
MATTHEWS is a South African-born singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his powerful, soul-stirring vocals and innovative sound that blends multiple genres. First gaining recognition as a writer and artist on RIAA Gold-certified songs “Resurrecting” and “Echo,” along with RIAA Platinum-certified “Here As In Heaven,” MATTHEWS has evolved into a bold solo artist, crafting music that fuses gospel, alternative R&B, and anthemic soul. With his forthcoming Curb Records debut solo album, The Darkest Light, he steps into a new creative era — one that embraces raw storytelling, organic musicianship, and an unfiltered expression of faith and transformation.
About Curb Records:
Celebrating 60 years in business, Curb Records is the largest independently distributed record company in America. Owned and operated by Mike Curb and founded in 1964, Curb Records has achieved 435 number one records, over 1,500 Top Ten records and charted over 4,500 total records. With over a half century in operation, Curb Records has been influential in the careers of some of the biggest names in music, including: Tim McGraw, Hank Williams Jr., Rodney Atkins, Lee Brice, LeAnn Rimes, The Judds, Dylan Scott, Sawyer Brown, for KING + COUNTRY, Wyn Starks, Wynonna, Lyle Lovett, Big Daddy Weave, We Are Messengers, Natalie Grant, Jo Dee Messina, Hannah Ellis, Mo Pitney, Hal Ketchum, and Kelsey Hart, among many others.
