Matthew Stephen Ward, known professionally as M Ward, was born on April 4, 1973, in Ventura, California. Growing up in Ventura, Ward developed a passion for music at an early age. He was exposed to a wide range of musical genres, including Americana and folk, which would later heavily influence his own musical style.
Ward's musical journey began in the mid-1990s when he started playing with the band Rodriguez. It wasn't long before he decided to venture out on his own, recording his first solo album in 1999. This marked the beginning of his successful solo career as a folk singer.
One of Ward's most notable collaborations was with actress and singer Zooey Deschanel. The two first met on the set of the film The Go-Getter, where they worked on a duet for the movie. This collaboration would eventually lead to the formation of the folk duo She & Him, which gained widespread acclaim for their unique sound and heartfelt lyrics.
Throughout his career, Ward has released several critically acclaimed albums, including Transistor Radio, Post-War, Hold Time, and A Wasteland Champion. His music is often characterized by its heartfelt lyrics and haunting melodies, drawing comparisons to some of the great folk musicians of the past.
After college, Ward made the decision to relocate to Portland, Oregon, where he currently resides. Portland's vibrant music scene provided Ward with a platform to further develop his music and collaborate with other talented musicians. It was here that he truly found his musical voice and solidified his place in the Americana and folk music scene.
In addition to his solo work and collaboration with She & Him, Ward has also been a part of the supergroup Monsters of Folk, performing alongside Conor Oberst and other talented musicians. This collaboration allowed Ward to further explore his musical abilities and reach new audiences.
Today, M Ward continues to captivate audiences with his soulful lyrics and intricate melodies. His music has left a lasting impact on the Americana and folk music scene, solidifying his place as one of the genre's most beloved artists. With each new album release, Ward continues to push the boundaries of his craft, further solidifying his legacy in the world of music.