Photo by Robby Klein

When they produce the film of my life from the book I have yet to write, there will of course be a love scene of when I met first my wife. I would want the accompanying love ballad playing during that romantic moment to be by no one other than Matthew Perryman Jones.

Since 2000, Matthew has graced the Nashville music scene with his intelligent pop-rock balladry. He is also a proud card-carrying member of the occasional Nashville singer-songwriter recording and touring collective known as “Ten Out of Tenn.”

 MPJ’s new record “The Waking Hours” is out now and you can see him at East Nashville’s Basement East on October 11 with our friend Molly Parden opening. Thanks Matthew for tackling these 11 Questions.

Where are you from originally, when did you move to Nashville and why?

I’m originally from Levittown, PA. I moved to Nashville in January 1999 because some good friends lived here and suggested that’d it’d be a good place to live and pursue a life in music.

What are the first and the last records you bought, and where did you buy them? Were they CD, vinyl or digital? 

To the best of my recollection, the first record I bought was U2’s War album. It was a vinyl record probably bought at Wax-N-Facts in Little 5 Points, Atlanta. Last album I purchased was Sons of Bill’s latest record, Oh God Ma’am which was digital from iTunes.

First and last live concerts that you’ve seen?

First live show was U2 on the Joshua Tree tour in 1987. Last show was Danica Dora at The 5 Spot.

Whose star should be added to the Music City Walk of Fame?

Is there a Music City Walk of Fame? I think there should be one star dedicated to anyone who dares to make music they believe in. Nashville is full of those people, and those people are usually not famous.

Where do you go in Nashville for coffee and pizza?

For coffee, Portland Brew on 12th Avenue. I’ve been going there since it opened. For pizza, Five Points Pizza.

What’s your favorite record to ever come out of Nashville?

That’s tough since there are a lot. The one that comes to mind and has stood the test of time is The Silver Seas’ Starry Gazey Pie. Such a great record. But, there are so many great records to come out of this city.

Where’s the best place to eat late night after a show?

I go to MAFIAoZA’S on 12th Avenue for chicken wings and reasonably priced drinks.

The Bluebird calls and asks you to host an “In the Round.” Pick three local songwriters to join you.

That’s a tough one. I’d go with Katie Herzig, Lera Lynn and Molly Parden.

What are your favorite music venues to play in town?

I’ve always enjoyed The Basement because everybody’s kind of in your face. Also, the Exit/In.

Name a musician who you’d like to see move here?

I don’t want anyone else to move here, but if I had to pick, I’d go with Joshua James because he’s a good bud and one of my favorite humans. But, he should stay in Salt Lake and rock climb and write great songs.

Finally, what’s in your musical future?

For now, touring my new record. Other than that, I have no idea.