(September 11, 2026) It would be an understatement to call Matt Smith a guitar teacher. He can teach artists how to play the guitar. However, the Austin, Texas-based Smith is much more than that. He runs the 6 String Ranch, a place where artists receive mentoring in every aspect of musicianship – from technique to lyric writing and composition to recording and production.
Smith’s CV is a testament to what he brings to the game. He’s been performing, recording, teaching and mentoring for 45 years. He has worked with B.B. King, Sheryl Crow and Buddy Guy, just to name a few. Smith is a music maker as well as a music educator, and his timely new song, “World is a Wheel,” showcases his mastery of the guitar and his observational skill.
On a tune that captures elements of blues, rock and gospel, Smith uses the imagery of a turning wheel to talk about the duality of a world that continues to spin even as humans confront choices that can turn their world upside down. We are often confronted with two choices – adapt or remain stuck in old habits and ways, love or hate, seek peace and reconciliation or contention and discord. “World is a Wheel” is the first song from Smith’s new album, “…this is not OK…” Check it out here.
By Howard Dukes
