Middle Tennessee State University boasts many successful alumni, one of which is Matt Mahaffey. Matt moved to Murfreesboro in the mid-nineties to attend MTSU where he thrived, co-founding Spongebath Records and the band sElf with his brother Mike. In 2001 Matt followed his dream to LA, to be closer to his work, his record label Universal Records, and to produce. The band’s single “Stay Home” was featured in the movie Shrek and Matt went on to create music for addition Shrek projects including the two surprise endings to Shrek 2, Madagascar, and Shark's Tale.
On television, you’ve heard Matt without even knowing it. He and his brother Mike produced the infamous jingle for Expedia.com and also composed jingles for Pedigree, Jumbone, Medicare, and Lexus. His music has been featured on CSI Miami, Dirty Sexy Money, and 60 Minutes. He is beginning to work with Nickelodeon.
Besides working with his own band, Matt played various instruments with Beck throughout his tours during 2005 and 2006. He has also performed with and produced many other artists including Mandy Moore, Pink, Beyonce and Smashmouth.
Matt lost his brother in May 2005 when he died unexpectedly in his sleep. Mike was 38. He is survived by his wife and three children. Matt organized several benefit concerts to raise money for the education of Mike’s children. It’s reported the wristbands indicating a purchased ticket to the benefit read, “It’s all good,” Mike’s favorite expression.
Matt and his wife are now living in Murfreesboro again and looking for a house to purchase in the area. Middle Tennessee is their home.
To learn more about this talented middle Tennessean, check out the website www.self-centered.org.
