William Matthews

William Irvin Matthews was born on November 5, 1983, in Detroit, Michigan, into a family shaped by music and ministry—his father served as a preacher and his mother as a choir director. When he was twelve, his family moved to Raleigh, North Carolina, where he began developing his songwriting skills. That musical foundation would later inform his work as a worship leader and recording artist within the Christian music community.

In 2007, Matthews served on staff at the International House of Prayer in Kansas City. Two years later, he joined the Bethel Church community in Redding, California. He became the first solo artist signed to the Bethel Music label and remained part of that community and label until 2016. During his time with Bethel, his songs “Deep Cries Out,” “Shine On Us,” and “Ascend” were featured on Bethel Music albums. He also released the full-length album Hope’s Anthem in 2011.

Following his years at Bethel, Matthews transitioned to independent music and advocacy work. He released the singles “Lost In Love” and “We’ll All Be Free” in 2018, followed by “Paradise” in 2019, and “Oops!” in 2025. His career has continued to reflect the worship and songwriting roots established in his early life and ministry.