Matisyahu | Brooklyn Bowl - Las Vegas

Matisyahu, born Matthew Paul Miller in 1979, is an American reggae singer, rapper and beatboxer known for blending traditional Jewish themes with reggae, rock and hip-hop influences. Growing up in White Plains, New York, he struggled to find his place until he discovered a passion for music, first through jam bands like Phish and then reggae. After spending time in Israel and embracing Hasidic Judaism in his early career, he combined his spiritual journey with his love for music, eventually developing a unique sound that stood out in the early 2000s music scene. His breakout moment came in 2004 with the release of his debut album Shake Off the Dust… Arise, which introduced his fusion of spirituality and reggae to a wider audience.

His career took off with the success of his 2005 live album Live at Stubb’s, which featured the hit single “King Without a Crown.” The song climbed the Billboard charts, making Matisyahu a mainstream name while still staying rooted in his faith-driven lyrics and reggae rhythms. Following that, his 2006 studio album Youth debuted at number four on the Billboard 200, earned a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album, and solidified his place as one of the most distinctive voices in modern reggae. Known for his energetic live performances, often including beatboxing and improvisational elements, Matisyahu gained a reputation as a dynamic performer who could connect deeply with diverse audiences.

Over the years, Matisyahu has continued to evolve musically and personally. In 2011, he made headlines when he shaved his beard and distanced himself from the Hasidic identity that had defined his early public image, while still maintaining a strong spiritual core in his music. Albums like Spark Seeker (2012) and Akeda (2014) showed his willingness to experiment with electronic and alternative influences, while Undercurrent (2017) leaned into a more jam-band and improvisational style. His career highlights include international tours, festival performances and collaborations across genres, all while maintaining a unique voice in modern music. Matisyahu remains a symbol of artistic reinvention, spirituality and boundary-pushing creativity.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher JASON LL