Library to Host Author and Musician Joe Matera
Published on 19 July 2024
Next month the Wangaratta Library will host author and musician Joe Matera, in celebration of his recently released second book, Louder than Words: Beyond the Backstage Pass. All are welcome to the event on Thursday 1 August at 6.30pm.
Joe Matera is uniquely positioned as both a professional musician and a music journalist, allowing him to navigate the music world from both sides of the stage. His dual career has granted him exclusive access to artists and insights that often elude traditional journalists, fostering deeper connections within the industry.
In Louder than Words, Joe reflects on his formative influences and shares stories of the musicians who shaped his journey, including legends like Janne Schaffer, who contributed to ABBA's iconic albums, Gerry Rafferty, the mastermind behind “Baker Street,” and international sensation Bryan Adams along with his songwriting partner Jim Vallance.
The book also explores the challenging realities of life on tour, shedding light on the personal struggles that often lead to band break-ups and mental health challenges. Joe critically examines the profound influence of MTV on a generation of artists, highlighting the career-altering impact of a single music video by rising star Billy Squier.
In addition to his solo work as a singer/songwriter and guitarist, Joe has made his mark as a music journalist, contributing to renowned publications such as Guitar Player, Guitar World, Record Collector, and Goldmine. He also writes a popular music column for the Shepparton News and has interviewed iconic bands including Metallica, Queen, Blondie, Bon Jovi, KISS, and Black Sabbath.
This event is a chance to gain insights into Joe's journey and the music world at large.
When: Thursday 1 August at 6.30pm
Where: Wangaratta Library, 21 Docker St
Bookings are essential: book online https://events.humanitix.com/host/wangaratta-library or contact the Library on 5721 2366, library@wangaratta.vic.gov.au
Author Enquiries
Joe Matera joe_matera@bigpond.com
Library Enquiries
Tracy Peters t.peters@wangaratta.vic.gov.au