“But occasionally I will find an artist whose music I really like. And then it kind of aggressively go after them. And yours is one of those. Your album has these slightly Rocky elements, but also isn't ashamed of the pop.” - Dan, Host of In The Key of Q
Matthew and The Keys
BIO
Who is matthew and the keys?
Matthew and The Keys is a pop/rock singer songwriter project of Matthew Akplu. The queer musician mixes life and love experiences with pop/rock melodies from various inspirations like Michelle Branch, Christina Aguilera, The Veronicas, and many other top pop musicians of the 2000s and on! MATK has released a full length album called “Victory” in 2021, with the infectious lead single, "Choose Love" as the debut. He recently dropped his lead single “Take It” (with his debut music video) off of his 6 song EP, called "Tears on the Prairies". The song has reached #1 for two weeks on the New Queer Canadian Music Chart. "Tears on the Prairies", which was produced by local Edmonton producer FITZGERVLD, is full of songs of triumphs and tribulations of a Black gay man on the prairies. The album speaks of self love, self doubt, lust and boundaries, and the waves of emotions at the tragic end of relationships.
Matthew and The Keys reaches #1 FOR THE SECOND WEEK IN A ROW!
July 25th Chart on the New Queer Music Canada Chart
After four weeks on the New Queer Canada Music Chart, "Take It" reaches the number one position in Canada again, for the second week in a row!
“““Take It” marks the triumphant return of Matthew and the Keys after their well-received 2021 debut, ‘Victory’.This alt-pop-rock track bursts with bold energy and emotional honesty, and is centered on themes of empowerment and seizing the moment. “Take It” delivers an uplifting riff that encourages listeners to step forward- on their own terms. It’s a feel-good anthem for anyone ready to own their power.”- on Instagram. - June 28th, 2025” - New Music Alert from @theqreviews
— instagram.com/theqreviews
Press Photos
Matthew Akplu is Matthew and the Keys. Images captured by Brendan Roy for Boundless Photo and Film
“Matthew and the Keys – Take It "Retro synths meet modern queer confidence in “Take It.” This bop is equal parts playful and passionate—a prideful groove to dance your truth to."”
— Pride 2025: The Bold Rise of Queer Music in Canada – Part 2