Already being hailed as “the next Woody Guthrie,” award-winning, prolific lyricist and composer, Nashville musician Crys Matthews blends Americana, folk, blues, and bluegrass into performances steeped in traditional melodies punctuated by honest, original lyrics. A troubadour of truth, Matthews is among the brightest stars of the new generation of social justice music-makers. On Saturday, Sept. 20, she comes to Maine to perform at the historic Boothbay Harbor Opera House.

Her hope-fueled, love-filled, social-justice album called Changemakers was released in March of 2021 and the title track was named the International Folk Music Association's "Song of the Year" in May of 2022. Justin Hiltner of Bluegrass Situation remarks that her gift is a "reminder of what beauty can occur when we bridge those divides." “I believe in hope,” Matthews said. “As a social-justice songwriter, it is my duty to keep breathing that hope and encouragement into the people who listen to my music.”

Matthews began performing in 2010 but cemented her acclaim at Lincoln Center as the 2017 NewSong Music and Performance Competition grand prize winner.

Advance discounted tickets are $20 and available directly from the box office at 86 Townsend Ave. or by calling 207-633-5159. The box office is open Weds-Fri from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Online tickets are $25 and available at boothbayoperahouse.com. Doors for seating open at 7 p.m. and the concert begins at 7:30.