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Interview With Matthew of The Road to Stardom With Missy Elliott
Posted on Tue 15 Mar 2005
(2557 reads)
Interview With Matthew of The Road to Stardom With Missy Elliott
Matthew Age: 25 Hometown: Orlando, Florida Occupation: Entertainer at Universal Studios
By: Chantae Benson
What motivated you to audition for the show?
I had done an open casting call for another talent show and someone who saw my audition tape for that show called me and told me to audition for Missy. Had that person not called me, I wouldn't have even known about the Road to Stardom.
How does your experience working as an entertainer for Universal Studios compare to performing during the competition?
Performing at Universal is a completely different experience because you are doing the same show day in and day out, whereas with the competition, we had no idea what we were doing or when we were doing it. We had to be ready for anything.
You made it known that you are a Christian during the show. Were you at all concerned that you would have to do anything that compromised your Christianity if you were selected as the winner?
I knew there was a possibility that my morals and beliefs would be challenged, but I wasn't worried because I know what I believe, and if standing up for my beliefs meant getting kicked off the tour, then so be it. If you're not true to yourself, then who are you?
You said if you won the competition you would use it as an opportunity to share your faith. Although you did not win the competition do you think you still accomplished that goal?
I do think I accomplished that goal because I receive email from fans who appreciate me sticking to my guns and speaking about my faith. I was just being me.
What was going through your mind during the live performance prior to the winner being selected?
The only thing going through my mind was have a good time. At that point, I wasn't concerned about the outcome of the competition, I just wanted to make sure I left everything I had out there on the stage.
What was your expectation of the show. Did the show meet your expectation or disappoint you in any way?
Truthfully, I didn't know what to expect, so I guess you could say the show exceeded my expectations. It was a lot tougher than I anticipated, I can say that much.
What was your most memorable experience on the road?
If I had to narrow it down to one instance, I would have to say performing for our families was the best. To see them after so long, and to perform something we had created was incredible.No matter what happens in life, my family is always there for me to support me, so it was nice to entertain them.
Is there anything that you wanted fans of the show to know about you that may not have been reflected during the show?
Honestly, I don't think so. What you saw on the show was me, and nobody else.
How have grown through this experience?
This experience really put into perspective how tough the music industry can be. You have to be ready at all times, or the opportunity of a lifetime could pass right by you. I have a much better understanding of that now.
What has been the response from family, friends and fans after the show?
The response I have been getting has been incredible. Everyone called to congratulate me, family, friends and fans alike have been very encouraging. They feel, as I do, that I did the best I could, I gave 150% and that's all you CAN give. They will always be the driving force behind what I do.
What are your future plans?
I am still working on my music and I am using the exposure to acquire a record deal. I truly feel that what I have to say is important and music is my favorite way of expressing myself. God will set my path, and I will follow it.
How can fans of the show contact you?
I would love to hear from any fans, and I can be contacted through my web site at www.matthewbuckner.net.
Thank your for taking the time for this interview and good luck with all your future endeavors. If you have any questions or comments please feel free to contact me at cwriter@realityshack.com