INTRODUCTION
Hello everyone it’s your host Daniel from Dulaxi, and today I have with me the talented Matt DeAngelis from Turnersville New Jersey, United States. Matt DeAngelis is here to discuss about his recent outstanding single “In This World”. So, welcome Matt. But before we begin our interview, to our audience; here is what you need to know about this artist.
Matt DeAngelis is a singer/songwriter from Southern New Jersey, USA, who began honing his craft at the age of 8 with the goal of spreading positivity in a world often filled with strife. Diagnosed with OCD and an anxiety disorder in his youth, he has leveraged his faith to transform challenges into creative inspiration. Passionate about climate change and mental health advocacy, he has also pursued storm chasing, gaining national coverage to raise awareness about the changing climate. As a multi-talented artist, Matt performs as a singer, keyboardist, and pianist. His band includes Billy Kennedy on guitars and as co-producer, Eric Bishop on bass, and Cole Herudek on drums and percussion, with production contributions from Tom Conran and John DeAngelis. Influenced by artists such as David Bowie, Cat Stevens, and Gentle Giant, Matt and his collaborators have developed a distinct sound and musical synergy through years of consistent work, with partnerships forming as early as 2016 and band membership solidified by 2023. His recent performances include Cancun Cantina in Hanover, Maryland, and Live Casino in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
And of course, here’s a little something on the track;
Released on January 23, 2026, “In This World” is Matt DeAngelis’s original single recorded at Gradwell House and Musically Speaking Studios. The track blends jazz and rock elements in a 12/8 time signature, featuring poignant lyrics and a soulful melody. Written by Matt and developed organically with his band, the song emphasizes the importance of unity, understanding, and cohesion in humanity. Its repeated line, “Everybody knows what it means to live in this world,” underscores the message that life is a miracle and individuals should support one another despite challenges, temptations, and devastating events. With a light musical feel paired with a profound message, “In This World” highlights the power of music to inspire, uplift, and encourage reflection on the choices we make during our time in this world.
Having this brief Introduction about Matt DeAngelis and his unifying track “In This World”, I’m sure new and current fans must be excited about our Interview today.
INTERVIEW
Daniel: You describe this as a “light feeling musically with a heavy message.” Can you break down that contrast for us? How did you intentionally balance hope with gravity?
Matt DeAngelis: As I was writing this song, I wanted to convey the message that we are all as one living in the world and that we must work together to maintain hope for a better future. The gravity is significant in that the world is changing more for the worse unfortunately given the circumstances in our society. The hope is that we realize we will know the significance of living in a world where there is only one chance given and truly be able to experience the challenge of cohesion as a human race.
Daniel: The repeated line “Everybody knows what it means to live in this world” feels universal. What does that line personally mean to you?
Matt DeAngelis: Personally, this line signifies being apart of the entire human race. For me, it is a reminder that I am not alone in this battle of life I am living each day. I can lean on my brothers and sisters that God provided me in order to maintain a positive outlook on life as long as I am living in this world.
Daniel: Was there a specific moment, event, or realization that triggered you to write this song?
Matt DeAngelis: This song stemmed from a particular time of unrest in our community as a whole several years ago. I wanted to convey to my audience that no matter the circumstance, we all know the challenges and difficulties of living in this world. However, we must practice cohesion as a community rather than tear each other down. This is the only way we can be successful in life as we live out the rest of our lives in this world.
Daniel: You speak about unity, faith, and the choices we make daily. How much of this song reflects your own internal struggles or reflections?
Matt DeAngelis: There is a direct correlation between this song and my own internal struggles and reflections. Just like anyone else, I struggle to maintain hope and positivity for the future at times, but my faith in God and mankind is my stability in this life. After all, we are “one in the same” as I state throughout this song. Our feelings of loneliness can only be attributed to being in the flesh and tempted by evil.
Daniel: If a listener walks away remembering just one message from this track, what would you want it to be?
Matt DeAngelis: The main message from this track is that you are not alone, as God has put mankind together to battle a short life in a challenging world. We are all living this life together, so why battle your own kind as opposed to unification in a frightening and unknown world?
Creative Process & Musical Structure
Daniel: The 12/8 time signature gives the song a unique rhythmic flow. What inspired that choice, and how did it shape the emotional delivery?
Matt DeAngelis: Many times as I am composing my original songs, I am somewhat unaware of the peculiar time signatures that ensue. However, this flow of writing can be a parallel to a somewhat turbulent journey in life as we know it and the triple feel is about how we all have to roll with the punches, so to speak, hence the rolling feeling. The odd time signatures in this song represent the emotional journey of living in a frightening world.
Daniel: You mentioned the band jammed and developed a natural jazz/rock feel. Can you describe what those early jam sessions were like?
Matt DeAngelis: Early in the process of jamming through the song, we recognized and identified the jazz element this song contained, so we decided to capitalize on this moving forward as we recorded the tune. Many times when I am composing these songs, it’s rather a shot in the dark as to how the evolution of the band will progress in the studio. I was pleasantly surprised to be able to incorporate this jazz element into this particular song.
Daniel: Were there any major lyrical or musical changes from the first draft to the final version?
Matt DeAngelis: While there were no specific lyrical changes from the first draft to final version of this song, the changes musically are evident from when I first began writing. The basic track of the song is what I composed, but as we are recording in the studio and adding parts, the song is constantly changing musically. In this case, I would say the musical evolution of the song was for the better, as it helped shape it into what you hear today.
Daniel: How do you typically begin a song, with melody, lyrics, chord progression, or concept?
Matt DeAngelis: Quite frankly, there is no one way I consistently begin writing a song. Sometimes I develop an idea lyrically, while other times it occurs musically. In some instances this process even occurs simultaneously. I find it interesting as a songwriter but am inclined to let the process happen naturally in whatever fashion it may.
Daniel: Since you’ve been working consistently with your band since 2022, how has that chemistry evolved over time?
Matt DeAngelis: Developing chemistry with a band is certainly not the easiest task, but from the very beginning, I felt a rather strong connection to the musicians working for me. Therefore, the chemistry has only gotten stronger over time. I am aware of the strengths of my musicians and capitalize on these strengths in the studio in order to create the best product possible.
Daniel: What does Billy Kennedy instinctively understand about your musical vision that makes your partnership work?
Matt DeAngelis: I cannot say enough positive things about Bill Kennedy and how he has “weathered the storm” if you will through our creative processes over the years. As a producer, I can only imagine the challenges that he faces daily, but he is now aware of our process after years of working together. It is definitely a symbiotic relationship for us in the studio, as we make each other better as musicians, composers, and people to work with. Nothing has happened overnight, but our consistency in our partnership has proved beneficial for all parties involved. We have released quite a number of songs now since we began recording in Bill’s studio, and I could not be happier with these products. The production of the songs is only improving and I cannot wait to see what the future holds.
Daniel: What did Tom Conran bring to the backing and vocal production that elevated the final product?
Matt DeAngelis: Tom Conran is an extremely intelligent producer that has brought out the best in these songs while recording in the studio. His innovative ideas have helped shape my songs into what they are today. Personally, I have especially benefited from having him in the studio when I’m in the vocal booth. He has brought out some of my better vocal performances in recent months with the newer releases and I am evolving as a singer and songwriter because of this. I am very fortunate to have such a talented and experienced team behind me.
Artistic Growth & Personal Journey
Daniel: You’ve been writing since age 8. Looking back, how has your songwriting matured emotionally and spiritually?
Matt DeAngelis: Since the age of 8, I have grown light years as a songwriter. Naturally, as I have aged and encountered many of life’s challenging experiences, my songs have evolved and become more complex over time. I have always seen myself as a deep thinker and more complicated songwriter, but my identity as a songwriter has constantly evolved and changed significantly over time.
Daniel: How has living with OCD and anxiety shaped the way you approach songwriting and performance?
Matt DeAngelis: Living with OCD is a blessing and a curse as I always say. While it has certainly brought me a significant amount of mental and physical strife over the years, I have to realize it is part of what makes me who I am as a songwriter and performer. I tend to think it heightens my senses as a songwriter and drives my performances on stage for the better. Sometimes I wish I did not have to encounter these mental struggles on a daily basis, but other times I am thankful for having the opportunity of these encounters as I can reflect my challenges as a songwriter and performer. My goal has become to inspire people with not only some of the same mental disabilities, but everyone who struggles and provide hope and encouragement.
Daniel: Has music become a form of therapy for you? If so, in what ways?
Matt DeAngelis: Music has always been a form of therapy, and in many cases the main source for me. Songwriting can be seen almost as a medication for me, as I am able to convey my feelings and experiences through song, which in turn are able to heal me. I also get somewhat of a relief as a performer being able to release my frustrations on stage. In any case, music as a whole has always been a main source of therapy for me personally and I can imagine it will continue to be throughout the remainder of my life as a musician.
Daniel: Compared to your earlier releases, what growth do you hear in In This World?
Matt DeAngelis: As I had previously stated, the jazz element this song developed is certainly something I would consider a growth as a songwriter. I also believe this song still has many elements, but as a growing songwriter I was able to condense these parts and release a shorter product while still conveying the same message. Many of my past songs have been longer in duration, but as I have been consistently growing as a songwriter, I have been able to convey a similar message while keeping the duration of the song somewhat shorter. As a natural songwriter however, I still don’t believe there is any set duration for a song, as the message must be given to your audience in however long it may take.
Daniel: As someone influenced by David Bowie, Cat Stevens, and Gentle Giant, how do you consciously internalize those inspirations without losing your own identity?
Matt DeAngelis: Many of my inspirations have been consciously ingrained in me from a young age, as I have studied and listened to these artists for a number of years. I tend to think these inspirations have helped me develop my own identity naturally. However, there are instances where my producers help me to better shape my songs to where they are not too similar to some of my inspirations. This often occurs in the pre production process and has helped me to develop a stronger identity as a result.
Daniel: Faith appears to anchor this song. How does your spirituality influence your creative decisions?
Matt DeAngelis: I have been a Christian for many years and have incorporated God and my faith in almost every one of my original songs. I tend to keep my message of faith subliminal in many of my songs, however, as I feel conveying this to an audience should not be pushed but rather discovered. The message remains the same in that where there is God, there is hope. You can find this rather frequently in my songs.
Daniel: You are passionate about climate change awareness and mental health advocacy. Do you see these themes becoming more present in your future music?
Matt DeAngelis: I have tried to make climate change awareness and mental health advocacy two important themes in developing my brand as a musician and songwriter. This has carried over into my writing and will continue to do so in the future. There are quite a few songs that involve my mental health struggles and ways to combat them. There are also many of my songs that relay the message of an ever changing world and how we must do our part as a community in making the world a better place. We have the future to think about as a human race, so I feel the topic of climate change needs to be addressed as often as possible.
Daniel: How does being a storm chaser and climate advocate influence your worldview as a songwriter?
Matt DeAngelis: Being a storm chaser and climate advocate has truly put my identity as a songwriter into perspective. The experiences I have had on the road chasing storms and witnessing firsthand the power of nature as a result of climate change, with storms of much greater magnitudes with each passing year. Ultimately, it has influenced my advocacy on climate change and ways to improve our planet. I have written many songs based on my experiences chasing storms and experiencing the climate. This part of my life has been a tremendous inspiration and will continue to be as I grow my storm chasing career in the near future.
Daniel: Do you feel artists today have a responsibility to address social or spiritual issues?
Matt DeAngelis: I believe as an artist you are entitled to convey the message you believe in. That’s the beauty of being an artist. Everyone’s message differs from one another. My message remains the same and is evolving to include even more positivity and unification as a human race.
Fan Reception & Audience Connection
Daniel: Since the January 23 release, what has been the most powerful feedback you’ve received from listeners?
Matt DeAngelis: I have received many positive reviews thus far from this song. Many listeners have been able to feel the message of living as one in this world through my song. This always brings me joy and encouragement as a songwriter.
Daniel: Have fans shared personal stories about how the song resonates with them?
Matt DeAngelis: I’ve had fans say this track has lifted them emotionally and the music carries them in an easy-going way, while making you think. My songs have given my fans encouragement and hope for the future. That is my main goal as a songwriter and performer.
Daniel: How does performing this song live differ emotionally from recording it?**
Matt DeAngelis: As with any song, the recording process is much more complex than a live performance. We have spent countless hours in the studio developing this track into what you hear today. When I am performing live, there is only one chance to give the song the life it has. It feels more raw when played live but still gives you that light uplifting feeling because of the 12/8 time.
Daniel: At recent performances at Cancun Cantina and Live Casino Philadelphia, how did audiences respond to this track?
Matt DeAngelis: We are planning a youtube live acoustic performance in the Fall. The track is primarily online and has been well received with over 6K streams on Spotify and over 60K views of the video on my YouTube channel.
Daniel: What does unity look like when you’re on stage with your band?
Matt DeAngelis: Being unified as a band requires a good deal of patience from each member involved. Oftentimes the audience can immediately detect unity based on member interaction on stage. I have become much more comfortable on stage with my band members and now encourage interaction in order to make the show more entertaining. When there is a mental connection, it translates to a tight performance.
Daniel: Recording at Gradwell House, known for hosting The Wonder Years, must have carried some atmosphere. Did the space itself influence the vibe of the track?
Matt DeAngelis: Recording at the Gradwell House has been an incredible experience, as there is definitely a vibe when I’m recording there. I think this piano part on the house Bechstein grand inspired Cole to play light with a jazz feel. Being able to record in many studios throughout my career thus far, I would say Gradwell is near the top of the list in my favorite places to record.
Daniel: What was the most memorable moment during the recording sessions?
Matt DeAngelis: The most memorable moment during the recording sessions for this song was discovering a new sound on the guitar with Bill Kennedy in the studio. We were intentionally trying to find a new and innovative sound for this song on guitar and stumbled upon the sound you hear on the track today. The sound of the guitar relates to the whale sounds which many of us have found solace in and a sense of calm.
Daniel: Was there a take or vocal moment that felt especially powerful or spontaneous?**
Matt DeAngelis: I would say there was one particular moment that was very powerful. The “heaven please save the low” moment took this track to another level, Recording the vocals on this track was quite emotional. With the help of Tom Conran while vocal tracking, I was able to convey the message of the song successfully.
Closing Questions
Daniel: Where do you see your sound evolving over the next few years?
Matt DeAngelis: Over the next few years, I see my sound continuing to evolve, but I am not positive on which direction it will go. The beautiful thing about being a songwriter is that I am constantly evolving over time, so no two songs are exactly the same. My songs are a direct result of my immediate surroundings at the time which is constantly changing.
Daniel: Is there an EP or album in the works that expands on the themes of In This World?
Matt DeAngelis: We do not currently have an EP or album in the works for In This World, but I do have an exciting new single that will be released in the next couple months focusing on similar themes. We are planning on filming the music video for my next single in Arizona and Las Vegas.
Daniel: Are there collaborations you’re hoping to explore?
Matt DeAngelis: When given the opportunity, I am always willing to collaborate with other artists. I also always have my eyes open for opportunities to collaborate with others in making good music for our audiences to hear. I believe collaboration is very important and helps shape the artistic community. Billy and I haven written together and we may release some of what we’ve collaborated on.
Daniel: What kind of legacy do you hope your music leaves behind?
Matt DeAngelis: I can only hope my music leaves behind positivity and hope for all people. If I can bring encouragement to just one person from my songs, I consider it a success. My goal is for my songs to connect with as many people as possible. This in turn will help to shape my legacy as not only a musician and songwriter, but as a person, as well.
Daniel: If you could describe your current artistic chapter in three words, what would they be?
Matt DeAngelis: In just three words, I would describe my current artistic chapter as an ‘ever’ ‘changing’ ‘world’.
Daniel: What is something about you or your creative process that fans don’t yet know but would find surprising?
Matt DeAngelis: My creative process is quite complex, but something that my fans may find surprising is that when I find an idea for a song or feel the desire to write, I will do it anywhere. This can be at a store, on the road, or even at a gig. In fact, I have even started writing songs in the past at shows in between sets! This comes with the territory of being a songwriter, as you never know where or when creativity will strike, and it is your responsibility to cease the moment and create on the spot!
Check out In This World on Spotify:
HAVING HAD A CLOSE LISTEN TO THIS DEEPLY HUMANE PIECE OF ART, HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS
“In This World” by Matt DeAngelis is a reflective and purpose‑driven single that places its theme of unity and shared humanity at the forefront. The song’s lyrics repeatedly assert “Everybody knows what it means to live in this world,” challenging listeners to consider life not as isolated individuals but as interconnected beings navigating chaos, fear, and challenge together. Through its narrative, DeAngelis conveys that genuine compassion, kindness, and mutual support are choices available to everyone, and that embracing those choices can transform both personal experience and collective existence. The message advocates for understanding, hope, and connection as antidotes to division and strife, making the track feel both timely and earnest in its call for cohesion and compassion in a complex world.
Musically, the song’s jazz‑rock pulse creates a patient, warm backdrop that complements its message without overwhelming it. The expressive vocals and the organic interplay of instruments enhance the emotional weight of the lyrics, allowing the thoughtful theme to resonate deeply with listeners.
Finally to our audience, I urge to listen to “In This World”, add it to your playlist and be Inspired by it and on behalf of Dulaxi I like to appreciate you all by saying thank you everyone, See you on our next interview.
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