Neal Matthews

Neal Matthews Jr. (1929-2000) was an American singer and songwriter, best known as a member of the popular vocal group The Jordanaires. Formed in 1948, The Jordanaires specialized in gospel and pop music, and they gained fame for their close harmonies and smooth vocal style. The group became highly influential in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly for their work as backup singers for Elvis Presley, contributing to many of his iconic hits, including "Can't Help Falling in Love" and "Love Me Tender." Matthews was known for his rich tenor voice and played a significant role in the development of the Nashville sound, a style that blended country, pop, and rock elements. Beyond his work with The Jordanaires, he co-wrote several songs, including "Somebody's Waiting for Me," which showcased his songwriting talent. The impact of Matthews and The Jordanaires can be seen in their lasting influence on vocal harmony groups and their contributions to the success of rock and roll and country music during a transformative era. Their work helped establish the importance of background vocals in popular music, paving the way for future artists and vocal ensembles.