MattyB, also known as Matthew David Morris, captivated audiences at a young age with his rapping skills and online presence. From covering popular songs to creating original music, his journey to YouTube stardom is a fascinating tale of talent, dedication, and a touch of controversy. This article explores MattyB’s rise to fame, his impact on social media, and the controversies that have sometimes surrounded his career.
Table Content:
- The Early Years and Musical Inspiration
- The Breakthrough: Eenie Meenie Cover
- Charting Success and Growing Fanbase
- Original Music and Television Appearances
- Continued Success and Endemol Beyond USA
- YouTube Domination and Social Media Influence
- Controversies and Online Persona
- Personal Life and Interests
- Conclusion: MattyB’s Enduring Influence
The Early Years and Musical Inspiration
Born in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 6, 2003, MattyB’s musical journey began at the tender age of five. Inspired by hip-hop music, he started learning dance moves to accompany the rhythms. His older cousin, MarsRaps, a rapper himself, became a significant influence, sparking MattyB’s interest in rap music. After years of persistent requests, MarsRaps finally agreed to help MattyB with his own rapping aspirations.
The Breakthrough: Eenie Meenie Cover
In 2010, at just seven years old, MattyB and his cousin posted a YouTube video covering Justin Bieber’s hit song “Eenie Meenie.” This video quickly went viral, garnering over 500,000 views within a week and marking the beginning of MattyB’s ascent to online fame. This early success laid the groundwork for a prolific career on YouTube and other social media platforms.
Charting Success and Growing Fanbase
MattyB’s popularity continued to soar, and in 2012, the music video for his song “That’s the Way” reached an impressive number 11 on Billboard’s Social 50 Chart. This achievement propelled his social media presence to new heights, significantly increasing his followers across various platforms.
Original Music and Television Appearances
As his fanbase grew, MattyB transitioned from covers to original music. His first original song, “Forever and Always,” released in 2011, showcased his songwriting talent. He also collaborated with established artists like Tyler Ward, further solidifying his position in the music industry. His growing recognition led to appearances on prominent television shows, including The Wendy Williams Show and Entertainment Tonight.
Continued Success and Endemol Beyond USA
MattyB’s television appearances continued with spots on shows like Today and Dr. Phil, and even a memorable appearance alongside Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson on WWE Raw. He also performed live at various venues, including Turner Field and Six Flags Over Georgia, and starred in national commercials. In 2014, at the age of eleven, he signed a premium content deal with digital network Endemol Beyond USA, expanding his reach and creative opportunities.
YouTube Domination and Social Media Influence
Currently, MattyB boasts an impressive online presence with over 14.8 million subscribers and 3.4 billion views on his YouTube channel. He maintains a strong engagement with his fans on other platforms as well, with over 3.5 million followers on Instagram and a substantial following on Twitter.
Controversies and Online Persona
Despite his generally clean lyrics and family-friendly image, MattyB has not been immune to controversy. Known for his outspoken nature, he has engaged in online disputes, often sharing personal details about punishments from parents or school officials. These incidents have sometimes drawn criticism and mockery on social media.
Personal Life and Interests
Born to Tawny and Blake Morris, MattyB comes from a supportive family. His father, an investor, songwriter, and record producer, also manages his career. He has four siblings: Blake Jr., John Michael, Josh, and Sarah Grace. MattyB attended Wesleyan School and enjoys a range of activities, including sports like baseball, lacrosse, and soccer, as well as boxing, video games, and art. He is reportedly in a relationship with Ivey Meeks.
Conclusion: MattyB’s Enduring Influence
MattyB’s journey from a young boy inspired by hip-hop to a YouTube phenomenon is a testament to his talent and drive. While controversies have sometimes punctuated his career, his dedication to music, engaging content, and massive online following have cemented his place as a prominent figure in the world of online entertainment. His story serves as an example of how social media can be a powerful platform for young artists to achieve global recognition and connect with millions of fans.