From Brazilian Roots to Global Stardom

Oh man, I just had a serious “I’m getting old” moment—today’s Guitarist to Watch was born in 1993, the same year I graduated from college! Meet Mateus Asato, a phenomenal guitarist from Campo Grande, Brazil, who has skyrocketed to fame through social media. Asato’s playing is incredibly emotive, showcasing intricate fingerstyle techniques that are nothing short of mesmerizing. He seamlessly blends genres in a way that’s completely his own, making him a standout in the new wave of guitarists who are redefining the instrument. If you haven’t already, he’s definitely someone to keep on your radar.

A Career Born Online

Mateus Asato’s journey to international recognition began when he started posting short videos of his playing on Instagram. His unique ability to blend elements of pop, rock, and R&B with a strong technical foundation quickly garnered him a massive following. Asato’s playing is characterized by its lyrical quality and expressive touch, qualities that have made his short Instagram clips immensely popular and highly influential in the guitar community.

Iconic Tracks: Crafting Guitar Magic

While Mateus Asato is not known for traditional studio albums, his guitar work can be heard in various collaborations and live performances:

1. “Don’t Dream It’s Over” – This cover of Crowded House’s song highlights Asato’s intricate fingerpicking and dynamic expression, transforming a well-known pop song into a guitar masterpiece. His clean tone, precision, and fluidity are remarkable.
2. “Let It Be” – Asato’s version of this masterpiece is like bringing together Paul McCartney and Jimi Hendrix. With a slightly dirtier tone, this chord-melody version features double stops and slides, creating a unique vibe for this venerable classic.
3. “Time” – Ethereal, dreamy… Those adjectives may sound cliché, but Asato’s performance is anything but. A mix of lo-fi and precise, articulated playing, it may seem contradictory, but it sounds fresh and is well worth a listen.
4. Original Instagram Clips – Many of his original compositions shared on social media, such as his improvisations and unique arrangements, have become iconic among his fans.

Gear and Technique: A Modern Guitar Virtuoso

Mateus Asato is known for his love of Suhr guitars, particularly his signature Suhr Classic T model, which has been designed to accommodate his versatile playing style.

His rig typically includes a variety of pedals, with a focus on delay and reverb to create the lush, ambient sounds that characterize much of his music. Asato’s playing is noted for its use of hybrid picking, where he combines fingerstyle techniques with the use of a pick, allowing him to achieve a wide range of tones and textures.

Influence and Impact

Mateus Asato isn’t just an Instagram sensation—he’s a game-changer for a whole new generation of guitarists. They’re soaking up his online content like sponges, using it as both inspiration and a learning tool. It’s a Brave New World, my friend! What makes him really stand out is his knack for creating music that hits you right in the feels, all with just a guitar. His talent hasn’t gone unnoticed either; he’s been teaming up with everyone from pop stars to guitar legends, cementing his place as a major player in today’s guitar scene.

Conclusion: The Growing Legacy of Mateus Asato

Mateus Asato is really shaking things up as a guitarist in the digital age. The way he connects with people all over the world through his music is incredible, and his innovative guitar style just keeps pushing his influence further. It’s wild to see how he’s gone from an online sensation to a respected musician, proving that when you mix real talent with the power of social media, big things can happen.

Bonus Track: 10 Facts About Mateus Asato

1. Early Beginnings: Started playing guitar at the age of 9 and was heavily influenced by rock and pop music.
2. Formal Education: Mateus studied at the Musicians Institute, a top music school offering hands-on, industry-focused education in contemporary music, located in the heart of Hollywood. There, Asato refined his skills and developed his unique style.
3. Social Media Sensation: Gained fame through Instagram, where his short guitar clips have amassed millions of views.
4. Signature Guitar: Has a signature Suhr Classic T model, which reflects his preferred specs and tonal characteristics.
5. Diverse Collaborations: Worked with artists across various genres, including Tori Kelly, Jessie J, and Bruno Mars.
6. Technique Mastery: Known for his hybrid picking technique, combining the precision of a pick with the warmth of fingerstyle.
7. Tone Architect: Pays great attention to his guitar tone, using a combination of high-quality pedals and amps to craft his sound.
8. Live Performer: Despite his online origins, Asato has toured extensively, performing live with various artists and as a solo act.
9. Inspiration Source: His playing is often cited as a major influence by younger guitarists and musicians.
10. Taking a Break: In 2021, Asato announced a hiatus from social media to focus on his mental health, showing his commitment to personal well-being amidst the pressures of fame.