Matt Schmidt loves to fish. He also loves to sing and play guitar. He likes to write songs occasionally. It was over these interests that he connected with master singer, songwriter and flatpicker Adam Yount at the legendary Chippewa Chapel Open Mic in St. Louis, MO in 2008. After a few years of devoted garage-picking sessions, numerous gigs with varied lineups, epic fishing adventures, and the release of Adam’s stellar solo album “Butcher Songs” in 2011, they formed The Idea Men. Showcasing their seemingly supernatural vocal and instrumental chemistry, and Adam’s superb songwriting, The Idea Men were an acoustic tour de force, becoming a regional and festival favorite.

Loosely basing themselves out of Steelville in Crawford County, MO, they would release two albums: “Scraps” in 2015, and “HEY!” in 2020. Following a deceleration in band activity due to both the pandemic and Adam and his wife Beth creating and opening The Singing Butcher Shoppe in downtown Steelville, the Idea Men were poised to pick back up when Adam suddenly and unexpectedly passed away. For the family, friends, and community that loved Adam, life changed forever on March 26, 2022.

Despite this most unwelcome change, life has gone on. Matt, though sometimes crying, kicking, screaming, and being dragged against his will by the hands of time, has gone on with it. He continues to find joy and peace through fishing and music, as well as his wonderful family and friends. He can be found performing around the St. Louis area with local stalwarts Jon Bonham and Friends, and Folky Fish Fest founder Lukas Simpson. He can also be found most nights singing and playing guitar at bedtime for his two daughters. Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

Matt is also a dynamic solo acoustic performer, with a penchant for absurdity and oddball cover songs. His setlists vary like rocks in the creek, but generally feature the songs and influences of Adam Yount, because he was the ultimate best, and deserves to be remembered forever. And so it shall be for Folky Fish Fest 2024. Matt can’t wait to see you down by the spring!