Matt Heckler, "St. Tomas," // GemsOnVHS™

[@sadieyoung4547]

My husband, Thomas, passed away a few weeks ago, as a young man that lived larger than life, had paved the way for many in the recovery community and his presence is greatly missed by many. This will definitely become a go to song for me as I forge ahead with the future he'd set for me.

[@dakotac9547]

U got this. Long live you, and late Thomas.

[@jonathancoal6999]

Aww.my condolences Sadie. You may take peace in knowing this was written for Tomas of a band called "profane sass" . his untimely demise was met via freight train but was an absolute saint here on earth. He had an amazing voice with a beautiful rasp. He was and still is such a massive influence to me daily. Your Thomas sounds like they shared the same light. Keep kicking Sadie.im rooting for you. You got this.im proud of you Sadie.sending all the love i have left.

[@sitaeve108]

Sending you love sister. May this song keep you comforted.

[@indiopeltier9758]

🤎

[@BenMartin-o1x]

Condolences, these people are a gift to be cherished by all touched by there light.

[@alectucker9439]

How do these always turn out even better than the studio versions? An incredible song, way to go, Matt.

[@emanuel31323]

Fckn ay Using again Benjamin Todd

[@LordofEregrion]

Natures power brother

[@Frankthetank164]

The music on gems and western af and red barn are natural and raw emotions and has “flaws” where the studio they sit and play the same verse 50 times to get it “just right” arguably county is ment to be raw and have the rasp,heaviness and impurities in it, and the fact that these acoustic channels are thriving with every video proves that. It’s what has been missing from county music for decades.

[@joeblankenship2360]

GemsOnVHS has brought me some of the greatest music that my ears have had the pleasure of hearing. Matt has hit a grand slam with this one, and that guitar is beautiful AF.

[@garystevenson6582]

No doubt. Benjamin Todd is my favorite artist but Mr Heckler’s Scots Irish Appalachian Folk just stepped up like Babe Ruth!

[@davidlee7052]

My stepdad lived in East Tennessee. He was diagnosed with cancer and died before I could get there from Texas to see him one last time. We had a memorial in town for him but I knew I had to visit one of the wild places he loved to properly commemorate his life. Some of my favorite memories are loading up his old beat-up car and randomly exploring the mountains. I went up to Carver's Gap by myself. When I stepped out of the trees I knew this was a proper place to honor his life. I made a small cairn of pebbles and made my peace with God. This song, sung in this place, speaks directly to my heart. So Ray, you may be gone my friend, but someday we'll meet again...

[@benkrause1017]

Sorry for your loss but it sounds like you knew just what he needed from you. Until that day you meet him again, keep on keepin on brother.

[@emanuel31323]

Amen 🙏🏽

[@RegularDude00]

Beautiful story you told us here. Im sorry for your loss, take care!

[@twiststeelandsmoke]

I listen to this song a few times a week. My brother died of a heart attack at 27 on my 30th birthday. He may be gone, but someday we'll meet again. He loved my kids. If our third is a boy, his memory will live on in name at least another generation. "You may be gone my friend, but someday we'll meet again." He truly was a saint for what he did here. Thank you, Matt, for this song.

[@bryansergot9025]

So cool seeing him open for flogging molly. Cant wait to see him and lost dog together again

[@mrniceguystylehigh]

ha i was just noticing how strong the irish folk sound is in this song.

[@uchiha_shisui682]

He OPENED FOR FLOGGING MOLLY??!?;

[@wyattobrien505]

Holy shit! I saw him open for them too

[@ravingducke]

They are playing in LA on August 21st! Check the tour dates!

[@hobbitmansstash]

Agreed

[@cedarriver]

Such great picking, especially incredible thinking how damn much his fingers must have hurt. One of my favorites from him for sure! Lyrics and chords below, hope I got all words right. I recommend playing along to this one on Ultimate Guitar for the chord switches: tabs.ultimate-guitar.com/tab/matt-heckler/st-tomas-chords-3546545 Standard tuning, Capo on 4 Please note that the D/F# chord is only played on the lower three strings and as a chord switch If this is too hard for you, leave all the / chords out and just play the basic chords In the Am-G-C-switch in the Verse, play A D and G string to get the right sound Obviously a whole lot of hammer-ons and pull-offs involved here I didn't note E7 020100 D/F# 200232 Intro Am C G F E7 Am / Am C G E7 E7/G Am / Am C Am G Am / Am C Am G Am Chorus Am F C G / Am F C G / Am F C / G Am / Am F C G / E7 / Am D/F# Verses G Am / G Am D/F# / G Am G / C G E7 E7/G Am G / C G D/F# / E7 E7/G Am G / C G D/F# / E7 E7/G Am G / C G / E7 E7/G E7/G# Outro Am C G Am C G Am x4 [Intro] [Chorus] You may be gone my friend but someday we'll meet again Pass around my human life to the darkness and to the light Staring down what could have been, never daunted by the wind Never set back by the rain, but just the same You may be gone my friend but someday we'll meet again You're the one who always kept the wolves at bay You're a saint for what you've done here [Verse 1] The sun comes up, a golden clown He turns his back on another town He gets power with the ones he loves A depth below and stars above A letter sent, an old postcard It won't find it's way to the railroad yard If they could only hear you now Hide your voice with thunder through the crowd Angry, young, poor and proud Leaving tracks behind that those in need could find Days come, I let go Take a deep breath and take it slow Fill your lungs before you begin For those that remember or those that still sing [Chorus] You may be gone my friend but someday we'll meet again Pass around my human life to the darkness and to the light Staring down what could have been, never daunted by the wind Never set back by the rain, but just the same You may be gone my friend but someday we'll meet again You're the one who always kept the wolves at bay You're a saint for what you've done here [Outro]

[@kjell1632]

This is great! I think its Golden crown not "clown" though.

[@julianv1828]

Thank you so much for this!!

[@lawrencestalbow-best2317]

I also think it's "the realm of human life" in the chorus, but I could also be wrong. Thanks for the effort you've done here, really grateful :) Fantastic song

[@Blueee51]

What guitar is he using?

[@cedarriver]

@@Blueee51 It's a Kay Archtop Guitar, can't give you an exact model though. Either a 6533 or a 6530. From the 60s

[@SlickJim2]

I must say, the visual layer of Anthonys videos always manages to intensify the music even more.

[@jessealberts5087]

I found Matt on Gems, talk about an artist. This should be the idol for all musicians. Be yourself, be real.

[@samthegr81]

I had never heard of the guy till he bout lit a fiddle on fire touring with Lost Dog in Richmond VA. Blew my fuckin mind, been a fan since

[@davidthomas9188]

From my hometown! Catskill mountains will always be a special place for us

[@sazon860]

Man seeing him live with DM3 before Covid was amazing. I didn’t even know he was opening until I saw him on stage

[@KeepinItChill]

S4ZON that would be such a kickass show, you lucky dog! Haha

[@sazon860]

@@KeepinItChill oh it was, and a week later I saw lost dog and Casper Allen, got to chop it up with Casper for a minute, was pretty cool

[@outlawpete6728]

Thank you for all this amazing music , in these trying times . Peace , health & good vibes to all , from Ireland 🇮🇪

[@lugiiflamez4646]

Forgiveness from whales

[@cascadecodymusic]

This guy does some awesome derivative stuff! Bought his album! So driven by Irish folk, while standing firm in American roots! Way too goooooo!

[@terborify]

I promised my best friend, who I have hiked countless peaks, driven countless dirt roads while drinking beer and hollering sad country tunes with, that when he goes, I’ll play this song at the top of a mountain

[@Wunel]

First song I've ever heard by Matt and it's absolutely insane. I've never heard a voice like that...

[@dinkmartini3236]

Keep digging. This guy's got it.

[@cavelvlan25]

This guy is a fucking gem. Im so glad real artists are.

[@ajpekarek3762]

I just found out an amazing person I knew passed away and then saw this. Thanks for helping ease the pain.

[@thenakedbootleggers]

Sorry for your loss

[@ajpekarek3762]

@@thenakedbootleggers Thank you

[@krossyourpath]

Just watched him live tonight opening for Lost Dog Street Band. Amazing musician and true emotional songs that blew everyone away.

[@nunyabisness423]

My dad listens to this music all the time (though mostly gospel songs) and I never really understood why, but i get it now. There's just something so real about it. "Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 6:23 KJV

[@paulhollingsworth9702]

I'm teared up I have wanted to here this since I seen it a year ago so beautiful thanks for all the great music

[@Gunz2quik]

this is one of those songs that people always ask "who is this" when you play it around someone new... and im always happy to introduce them to their new favorite musician! ;)

[@brock4843]

There are no better artists on the scene than this man! One of the best live performers ever!

[@kilo-watt]

Got to hear him play twice in the same weekend last fall with Lost Dog. It was a treat for sure. Second show was a livestream filming with about 30 people.

[@jacobcondick812]

I'm blown away by the talent you have Matt. You're the reason I play fiddle today. Thank you for everything you've done.

[@GemsOnVHS]

Matt's got an incredible new album on Anti-Corp featuring a studio rendition of this song available for pre-order now. tinyurl.com/y2cnj5y6 He plays anywhere and everywhere, but you can always find him at instagram.com/mattheckler You can keep up with us on our own travels at instagram.com/gemsonvhs

[@theghostmotel9639]

Those mountains were my front porch for many many years.. in fact, two decades. Love this.

[@GoblinsOnTheRoad]

How did you comment this 3 weeks before it was uploaded lol

[@theghostmotel9639]

@@GoblinsOnTheRoad Magic from the Biden Administration.

[@carloscamargo624]

Please bring Matt to Southern California!

[@dylanthwaites6876]

God bless you Simpkins for documenting this for us all. Heckler is a professional that deserves our attention. Thank you for all your experiences. It warms my bones

[@berachtdorian6191]

Great poet. Great musician. F*** yeah!

[@boonedog1457]

Matt, Great vocals, great instrumental! We hike on that trail all of the time. Wish we had ran in to you! What a gorgeous place to let your music fill the air!! Thanks!

[@sebastiankunstmann5525]

The perfect mix between melancholie and hope.

[@wesloughrie1]

Wow. All that music from 1 guitar? That is mastery. What a human

[@RegularDude00]

That is such a cool style of Guitar playing. I love that every guitar player sounds different. Everyone has their unique style and his style is awesome.

[@Parakeet_Actual]

I look forward to this one every time I see him live. Intensity is outstanding. He’s paired up with Ben on tour lately, these two can burn any place down.

[@kronickingpin]

I really fucking love this youtube channel you guys shine light on this kind of god tear level talent always never seen a video I didn't like on this channel

[@mardeeshack]

More Matt Hecklerrrrrr. Give us more and never stop giving us more. Haw River Ballad will always be my favourite song

[@rsim4381]

So moving. What an honor to the person it was written for.

[@Fiftyfiv3hundr3d]

You may be gone, my friend But someday we'll meet again Past the realm of human life Into the darkness, into the light Staring down what could have been Never taunted by the wind Never set back by the rain But just the same You may be gone, my friend But someday we'll meet again You're the one who always kept the wolves at bay You're a saint for what you've done here The sun comes up, a golden crown He turns his back away, on another town He gets by with the ones he loves The dead below, the stars above A letter sent, an old post card It won't find its way, to the railroad yard If they could only hear you know How you're voice will thunder through the crowd Angry, young, poor, and proud Leaving tracks behind that those in need could find Days come, how they go Take a deep breath and take it slow Fill your lungs before you begin For those that remember are those that still sing You may be gone, my friend But someday we'll meet again Past the realm of human life Into the darkness, into the light Staring down what could have been Never taunted by the wind Never set back by the rain But just the same You may be gone, my friend But someday we'll meet again You're the one who always kept the wolves at bay You're a saint for what you've done here

[@harryfurphy1491]

Ahhhh cant beat a good old Matt Heckler tune. every time I see a new tune he's made I just jump for joy. that man is an absolute legend.

[@hahagreg]

This makes me think of my best friend who passed 7 years ago. You may be gone my friend but someday, we'll meet again.

[@jaredfriday7328]

I don't really know how to use words and all but but this song fits perfectly for me. I just lost my Brother to cancer this year. it inspires me to get a guitar and see what happens thanks matt!!

[@aaronversluis420]

So glad I stumbled upon Matt this year and can't stop listening..

[@josephmccarthy5114]

This is by far the best mix of American and Irish folk music I’ve heard ever, and the terrain matches perfect.

[@derrickcompher3624]

Matt you're voice gives me chills you're an amazing artist

[@corypresnell2726]

I'm a 22 year old from Madison county NC born and raised. I'm so happy to see people from other places see our culture and appreciate it.

[@TylerRJC]

Talk about moving. Absolutely beautiful.

[@Ronbow555]

Personally I think Matt is a great artist but this may be his best so far. Sung with pure passion and emotion in a mystical setting honestly gave me goosebumps, if I’m not playing this song I’m thinking about it!

[@ronhamby657]

I discovered Matt when attending a Devil Makes 3 concert in Nashville. I was instantly hooked on his music, what a tremendous artist.

[@Capt_kook]

I'll never forget the time I met him in Alaska on a camping trip and Matt just blowing everyone away with talent

[@captainchucke5515]

I love how many songs have been written for Tomas

[@GemsOnVHS]

what are some other ones?

[@captainchucke5515]

@@GemsOnVHS "Westbound" by Riley Coyote and "Ashes" by The Bridge City Sinners off the top of my head. I think Riley has also done another one or two. Then there's "Call of the Void" by Rail Yard Ghosts that is a tribute to all dead homies, "No Crew Change (Ode to P. Sass)" on the Kansas Kassette (Kat Gut Gortet) - another of Riley's side projects. Also, Tomas wrote it, but Rail Yard Ghosts recording of "Train That Can Fly" I would also count as a memorial. From my understanding, Tomas was who taught Riley how to hop trains, and he was also dating Libby from The Bridge City Sinners, whose bassist is also a former member of Profane Sass.

[@MattStrom]

Once again the Scarlet Troubadour strikes again. Thank you Matt for always soothing my soul with your amazing skills. Thank you Gems for another great video.

[@epika2468]

This song was posted the same day me and my gf split, I needed this. Thank you

[@rickh.1165]

About two years, my best friend in the world left this earth. This song hits just right. I know you’re still there, my friend. And some day, we WILL meet again.

[@brandenmiquelas3319]

Found this guy through Benjamin Tod's music. So glad there's music like this out here

[@WilliamBradleyBuck]

My fingers hurt just watching him play in that damp and cold.

[@johnpennington9295]

Such a badass him and Ben are my new favorites! Thank u Matt !

[@meganvalek2690]

Thanks for my Matt Heckler fix. Keep 'em comin'.

[@brandonfoster6970]

New favorite song from Matt just wish it was longer

[@macphersoncountry]

Can’t wait to hear this Goldie on the third of September at Wilkes Recovery Revolution! Heaven sent golden music! Much much love and thanks for all your awesome music! Lifesaver you are my friend many peoples lives are safe thanks to your voice and powerful words and chords! God bless you Matt!

[@PatrickRobisonchan]

Thank you, for some of the best music I have had the privilege to listen to.

[@deflydoesit7292]

One of my favorite artist love yous

[@kallieelder484]

Love your music and style. Thanks for sharing your talent with us!

[@drewstafford8506]

That intro is one of the best iv ever heard!!!!

[@a.million9680]

I've been a life long backcountry underground folk / bluegrass music fan, and I would like to add that Matt heckler has real depth to his song writing / lyrics. Through his emotion in his songs you can tell he's been through some things in life, not easy street. It is eerily beautiful.

[@nickynieling3253]

Sure loving this, such a great song and take.

[@kinburke3363]

This song is something i really feel in my 💙 Thank you

[@AxeMoose]

What a perfect setting for this song. Much enjoyed.

[@Dannymurmaid]

Little rockabilly sound! Love it

[@pdeitz7]

I get excited any time I see a new video involving Matt!!

[@habberdashin1309]

Man roan and max patch and this song are so beautiful. Makes me miss Tennessee and the Carolinas.

[@SeanNugent]

Wow. Nothing like finding your new favourite artist, what a Gem 😉

[@innuendojo2977]

A True Musician, Not Many Of Those Left. Praise To You Matt

[@wheelmg]

Holy crap! I love Matt’s music but this is next level stuff. The way he uses his voice and patterns lyrics blows me away!!!

[@sethmountain]

Just legendary. I can't stop returning to this one.

[@lukef2987]

Saw him live in Richmond Virginia with Lost Dog and his performance was absolutely incredible.

[@irvinmaddox5274]

Matt Heckler is so damn good! Ya know he can pedal a bike like a madman too. What a great tune. Thank Matt

[@vinsamson8061]

Frickin marvellous👌🤘🎶

[@snevkreb14]

Awesome to hear you on the guitar! Such energy!

[@LovelyLadyLauraC]

I love it when he sings from the mountain tops🍄💕

[@j17672]

This is awesome...you guys are awesome...keep it up

[@DeathSquadDesign]

Holy fuck... Matt was shredding!

[@carloscamargo624]

Matt's amazing! Iconic!

[@Fortheloveofagypsy]

Always the talented red- headed babe. Love the new song!

[@brianstearskingnothing]

Love it as usual your a good musician my friend

[@jzazj]

Just discovered this powerful piece... someone I know is marching into a mortal battle later today, I will be sending them this for their fight. Thank you.

[@heatherrupe2620]

Lorrrrrdyyy that old Kay archtop ringing out on my beloved Roan Mountain is enough to make a lady swoon!!! Fancy shreddin’ 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻

[@lanahaxer]

I swear he can do no wrong. So talented.

[@judecaplin1860]

Almost 7K views in just 8hrs, says something about the GEMS family huh. And another amazingly powerful song from Matt!!

[@angeliabarnett3918]

So amazingly awesome ❗ I live in Roan Mountain.... just "under" Carver's Gap myself. Thank you all for this amazing song, video.... what a blessing ❗💜🎶💜

[@joshwatson4560]

All the love from here in Australia

[@Therighteouswrong]

This dude is getting better!

[@theendlessroad5473]

I've been waiting so long to hear this again. Thank you Mr. Heckler

[@mixermanbear.4002]

I needed this today. Thank you so much! 🙏❤️🙏

[@PRRrailfan]

Amazing stuff Matt! I did some trail work on the AT on Roan Bald not too long ago; it's a beautiful spot!

[@kilo-watt]

This is one of my favorite songs from the shows that Matt played with LDSB last fall.

[@matthewjohnson118]

My man never misses 💯💯💯

[@RegularDude00]

Listening to this alongside with an ice cold beer. What a bliss.

[@kyler2532]

I recognized that trail. Roan highlands is such a beautiful trail.

[@evanstrickler3012]

I frequently visit roan mountain. It's a beautiful place. Would of been epic to catch you playing this on the balds. Great job. FYI. If you drive on up the hill from there and drive past the rhododendron gardens to the furthest point you can find another trail that takes you to another epic lookout.

[@charlieparker8064]

What a bloody belter!!!

[@joshmiles7727]

I lost someone incredibly close to me not too long ago and this song has definitely had a positive impact, thank you.

[@viracocha03]

I fucking love this channel. You introduce me to some of the most unique voices and amazing music.

[@MC-qn3sy]

This makes me so damn excited for his next album! Holy shit!

[@bryonypayne1418]

Fabulous.

[@judyjameshomies2571]

Beautiful, thanks