Crys Matthews, a highly regarded singer-songwriter known for her socially conscious music, is set to perform at Society Hall in Alamosa on Thursday, April 30th, 2026. Her music, which combines elements of Country, Americana, Folk, Blues, and Bluegrass, offers listeners a heartfelt message of kindness, hope, and social justice. Matthews’ songs reflect the challenges and triumphs of today’s society while drawing inspiration from the historic protest music of the 1960s.
The 1960s were a turbulent time in American history marked by the Vietnam War, civil rights struggles, and widespread social unrest. Music played a crucial role in uniting people and expressing the emotions of the era. Today, Matthews carries on this tradition by using her voice and songwriting to address contemporary issues such as immigration, racial justice, gun safety, and the opioid crisis. Her latest album, Changemakers, serves as a musical record of recent years’ social movements and challenges.
Matthews grew up in a small town in southeastern North Carolina where she was influenced by her upbringing in an African Methodist Episcopal church. This background shaped her understanding of music’s power to inspire change. She describes herself as “the poster child for intersectionality,” blending personal experience with broader social themes in her work. Her lyrics encourage listeners to stay hopeful and active in fighting for justice.
Her performances have earned her recognition at prestigious venues such as Lincoln Center and the Kennedy Center, as well as honors from the Sundance Film Festival and Kerrville Folk Festival. Industry leaders praise her ability to deliver emotionally rich songs that address difficult topics with warmth and sincerity. Eric Philbrook, Vice President and Creative Director at ASCAP, highlights how Matthews lifts spirits during challenging times through her compelling storytelling and strong vocal presence.
The concert at Society Hall will begin at 7:30 p.m., with doors opening an hour earlier. Tickets are priced at $20 and can be purchased locally or online. For those unable to attend in person, the event will also be livestreamed on Facebook. Matthews’ music invites audiences to reflect on kindness and social justice while inspiring action through powerful melodies and meaningful lyrics.
Her song “Forged in Fire” captures the spirit of determination that defines her work: “Is there fire in your eyes? Then we can melt that I.C.E. / If we stand and fight, we’re gonna be alright.” These words emphasize resilience and collective effort in overcoming injustice. As Matthews continues to share her message through song, she offers a reminder that music remains a vital force for hope and unity in today’s world.
