Matt James on Blacktop Mojo, Fatherhood, Addiction, and the Cost of Staying Independent | #110

<p><strong>Heartdea13r Podcast with Christopher Gonda // Episode 110 // Matt James (Vocalist, Blacktop Mojo)</strong></p><p><br></p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p>Matt James of Blacktop Mojo joins Christopher Gonda for an honest conversation about music, fatherhood, touring, independence, and the realities behind building a life in rock. Matt opens up about mental health, partying, loneliness, and the wake-up calls that helped him find a healthier perspective, while also discussing the creative process behind Blacktop Mojo’s upcoming album Discount Fireworks. They explore the band’s DIY approach, the unexpected success of their “Dream On” cover, and why staying independent still matters after 15 years. Above all, Matt shares what it means to keep showing up, lean on the people around you, and never quit chasing what you love.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Key Topics</strong></p><ul><li>Balancing touring and family life</li><li>The importance of trust and delegation in a band</li><li>Creating and releasing the sixth album, Discount Fireworks</li><li>The impact of cover songs on a band&#39;s success</li><li>Managing mental health and addiction in the music industry</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Heartdea13r theme song by William J. Sullivan</strong></p><ul><li>https://linktr.ee/wjpsullivan </li><li>https://williamjsullivan.com/ </li><li>https://www.instagram.com/wjpsullivan/ </li><li>https://x.com/wjpsullivan </li><li>https://www.tiktok.com/@wjpsullivan </li><li>https://www.youtube.com/@wreckinjoint</li></ul>