Matt Blistan aka Atlanta Bliss - Prince and The Revolution

Musicians Reveal

For six years Matt "Atlanta Bliss" Blistan was the trumpet player for the famed rock artist “Prince” in the historic “Purple Rain Revolution” band. While performing under the “Prince-given” stage name of “Atlanta Bliss,” he performed in four world tours, three movies and 12 videos. In addition to his Grammy award Atlanta has also earned 12 gold and platinum records for his recording studio performances.

As a studio musician, Atlanta Bliss has recorded with other artists such as Aretha Franklin, Bonnie Raitt, Patti LaBelle, James Brown, Shelia E, Madhouse, George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic, Chaka Kahn, and Miles Davis. While teaching at Georgia State University in Atlanta, he was nominated for the Outstanding Musician award in the Atlanta Music Awards.

With over 40 years of professional trumpet playing, Atlanta has developed from a local band artist to a performer, composer, arranger, and producer with worldwide recognition. Atlanta began his professional music career in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where he received a B.S. in Music Education from Duquesne University. This experience developed into a performance career, which earned him a national Grammy Award.

As a way to give back to his community, Atlanta spent many days in inner-city schools in Atlanta, Georgia speaking to students about careers in the music industry through the National Association of Recording Art and Sciences (NARAS) “Grammies in the Schools” education program. His book Mind, Body, Trumpet, is his effort to expand the reach of his desire to help trumpet players maintain and develop their mental and physical connection of playing their instrument.

https://www.atlantabliss.com

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"Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley" Podcast Bio

"Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley" has been a fixture on the radio airwaves since 1982, earning recognition as the first show to be featured on Prince's official website, www.npgmusicclub.com. Co-hosted by Joe Kelley and Gi Dussault, the podcast is known for its creative approach and support of independent musicians, solidifying their reputation as respected figures in the music industry.

Our website, www.musiciansreveal.com, showcases a vibrant mix of music genres, including funk, R&B, jazz, blues, rock, hip-hop, Latin, and gospel. Joe Kelley has interviewed a host of renowned artists, such as Victor Wooten, Sheila E., Cyndi Lauper, Larry Graham, and many more, offering listeners an insider's perspective on the world of music. Join us for insightful conversations and inspiring stories from the artists who shape the soundtrack of our lives.

Matt "Atlanta Bliss" Blistan takes listeners on a captivating journey through his illustrious career as a trumpet player, most notably with Prince's iconic Revolution band during the Purple Rain era. The conversation unfolds as Blistan shares anecdotes from his time touring with Prince, highlighting the unique recording process that set the artist apart in the music industry. He paints a vivid picture of the atmosphere in the studio, where Prince would often take the reins, singing parts directly to the musicians without the usual formalities of sheet music. This organic approach to music-making is a testament to Prince's genius and intuitive understanding of sound, which allowed Blistan and his colleagues to contribute creatively while still capturing the essence of Prince's vision.

Throughout the episode, Blistan reflects on his extensive collaborations with other legendary artists, including Miles Davis, Aretha Franklin, and Chaka Khan, showcasing the breadth of his experience in the music world. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of being a studio musician, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and quick thinking in a fast-paced recording environment. Blistan also shares insights from his educational background, discussing how his degree in music education from Duquesne University shaped his understanding of music and teaching, which he passionately imparts to young musicians today.

Blistan's book, Mind Body Trumpet, serves as a focal point in the discussion, where he elaborates on its purpose to help trumpet players connect mentally and physically with their instrument. He advocates for a holistic approach to music education, encouraging students to engage in practices that enhance their playing without solely relying on traditional methods. This episode is not just a recollection of past glories but a rich exploration of Blistan's philosophy as a musician and educator, inspiring listeners to appreciate the art of music beyond the surface level and to nurture their creativity with dedication and passion.

Takeaways:

• Matt 'Atlanta Bliss' Blistan reflects on his transformative years performing with Prince's band.
• He emphasizes the importance of adaptability and improvisation in a fast-paced studio environment.
• Blistan shares insights about the unique recording process he experienced at Paisley Park.
• His journey from Pittsburgh to becoming a renowned studio musician is truly inspiring.
• Blistan's book, Mind, Body, Trumpet, aims to help trumpet players enhance their skills.
• He discusses the lasting impact of his musical career on his family and community.