Matt Oakley’s new single, “Party on 95,” debuts today, delivering a fresh road trip anthem for fans of genuine, feel-good country music. Inspired by years of road trips along Interstate 95, Oakley’s latest track draws listeners into a journey where the destination matters less than the memories made on the road.
A Song Inspired by Real-Life Road Trips
Oakley grew up in a military family, moving frequently along the east coast between Maryland, Virginia, and Rhode Island, and eventually attending college in South Carolina. The song “Party on 95” was born from those years spent on the road, specifically the road trips he and his college roommate took along Interstate 95, with the truck packed up and the windows down.
“Party on 95 is exactly what it sounds like,” Oakley explained. “It’s about all the times my buddies and I hit Florida for spring break. The idea came from one of my college roommates who thought, ‘Why not write a song about those trips?’ From there, it just took on a life of its own.”
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Oakley’s Creative Process and Songwriting Influences
Oakley wrote most of the song himself, adopting a “no bad idea” approach, which he learned from his cousin. This philosophy allows him to embrace and explore all ideas freely, ultimately leading to more authentic music. “I’ve realized that writing songs about my life resonates most with people,” Oakley said.
The influences behind Oakley’s music are clear: he grew up on artists like Riley Green, Luke Combs, and Morgan Wallen. “Party on 95” reflects their influence but remains uniquely his, capturing the blend of nostalgia and adventure in a way that’s relatable to fans of road trip country anthems.
“Party on 95”: Road Trip Playlists and Oakley’s Favorites
True to the song’s theme, Oakley’s ideal road trip playlist is filled with a mix of country classics and personal favorites. His essentials include Riley Green, Luke Combs, and Morgan Wallen, along with nostalgic tracks from his youth like Rascal Flatts. Oakley explained that road trips are about the vibe and switching up genres and rediscovering songs adds to the fun.
As for snacks, Oakley favors beef jerky, energy drinks, and gummy worms. It’s all about keeping the party going without stopping—a fitting choice for the creator of a song that’s all about savoring the ride.
An Album to Look Forward to in 2024
Fans of “Party on 95” won’t have to wait long for more new music. Oakley’s debut album is set for release in early 2024 and features 14 tracks, all written in Nashville with some of the best session musicians in the industry. Each song, Oakley says, is a piece of his life story, from growing up in a military family to finding his voice as a songwriter in Nashville.
“It just encapsulates my life,” he said about the album. “It’s 14 Songs that talk about things that are true to me.”
More Than Just Country Music: Oakley’s Commitment to Authenticity
“Party on 95” may be a feel-good anthem, but Oakley’s music isn’t limited to just lighthearted tunes. His 2023 single, “Soldier’s Son,” paid tribute to his father and Gold Star families, showcasing his dedication to storytelling and emotional depth.
As Oakley’s career continues to grow, his commitment to authenticity and relatable storytelling promises to resonate with a wide range of listeners. Fans of his road trip anthem “Party on 95” can look forward to a future filled with stories that reflect both the good times and the challenges of life along Interstate 95 and beyond.
