Balancing mental health and genius: Matt Good at TEDxToronto

The fifth annual TEDxToronto conference took place on September 26, 2013 at The Royal Conservatory of Music.
For our 2013 TEDxToronto Conference, all talks, performances and demos were rooted in our selected theme, "The Choices We Make."
About the Performer:
Throughout his two decades at the forefront of Canadian music, rock icon Matthew Good has only been one thing: unpredictable. Refusing to adhere to the path of least resistance - a flat, unwavering, pop/rock cultivator status - Good has successfully shuffled through musical genres & aural approaches. Multiplatinum sales, four Juno awards, 19 nominations overall & almost one million albums in the hands of fans asserts Good as the epitome of an artist & creator: invoking personal challenge, taking unprecedented courses & carving his own path.
For more information visit www.tedxtoronto.com
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

[@seantriplesevyn8152]

Matt is legit one of the most underrated musicians alive...not just Canadian....PERIOD

[@TheLastChapter2023]

That Job he worked while painting , was Chevron in Port Coquitlam... We used to yack over coffee every morning and talk guitar , and how he wanted to learn. Proud to know you Matt , you did it bro , you made it ! Amazing and wonderful . Way to go bro! Fill er up Matt 😁

[@lau_dhondt]

This man has had a lot of influence in my life. You can tell that it hasn't always been easy for him to be happy, but I love this guy.

[@m-bronte]

me too

[@billmaher1634]

MEE TOO!!!!!!!!

[@marcusserrao]

So underrated. By far, my favourite song writer and one of my favourite artists.

[@bea4394]

I love this man as a person. I don’t know him personally, but he’s been open about his personal life and shared it in his own words (not what was reported). “That’s styrofoam.”

Living legend - such an incredible talent, artist, poet, musician, human . I was a big fan in the 90s and then saw him perform Hospital Music around 10-12 years ago and I have never experienced another show like that!! I feel lucky to have heard him live!!!

[@seanericanderson3666]

Amazing! Not only is Matt Good a great musician, he's become a hero as well.

[@Elewyn]

Matt Good's Lyrics speak to my soul. They always have even today. Hospital music is the album that resonates the most for me. 99% of us is failure makes me break down every time because of how true it is. If you've lived it you know what I mean.

[@vulnikkura1735]

Matt's a big hero of mine. I've so much respect for him and everything he does. Amazing, underrated song writer and musician. ❤️❤️❤️

[@lesryderful]

Scarrr i was a huger fan of his before the onset of social media. i began to dislike him then.

[@vulnikkura1735]

How come, may I ask?

[@lesryderful]

Scarrr well the first thing i absolutely hated was his obsession with american politics and their foreign policies ...his blogs were almost exclusive to those topics. he harbors no connection to his fans or fellow musicians. he seems to almost dislike them. its almost like he wants a completely different demographic to appreciate him. he is just not very rock n roll. mega intelligent and a great poet but elitist as they come.

[@berylbrown9561]

rediculously underrated.

[@almostgraduatedable]

this man is the epitome of exceptional talent!

[@os2841]

You can tell that certain individuals like Matt really think about the deep issues affecting society at large and the meaning of our lives. Whether that attributes to mental illness or genius is anyone's guess. But as someone below has said he is one of those that has awakened to the truth of reality and that is why his music (besides immense vocal talent) is so effecting.

[@bradbarnes6024]

Like how people that don't think like him should be murdered by boy soldiers? Yeah he's a real deep thinker.

[@steveleeart]

You’re grandmas quote about beauty made me cry. Wow!

[@shanekennedy5420]

to: Matt and everyone who loooks for meaning in this speech. i took your advice. i let my process flow, which led me to walking in the creek near my house while organising my thoughts. just because i had to mission out here in the middle of the night, to write on scrap pieces of paper and update my thoughts thought my phone onto youtube in the dark leaning on a tree, doesnt mean i am the same as bacon smearing shit on the wall but it does show that not letting the apparent ridiculous walk foist shame upon me, as who rambles at night to better ramble on the internet, was essentiall for my personal, unique process of sorting my shit out while walking. i just happened to have had to come out here to b in a place where i could realise the things i needed. my point from him is that you can always package or market a message better, as you matt could have, but its the point, or effect, or beauty of what you do that matters even if you arent normal or clean when you show it.

[@heidifalzon497]

He is so bloody amazing I can relate to his songs so deeply …… that voice!!!! ❤❤❤❤

[@nathanhammond667]

A truly touched soul, in a myriad of positive ways. ABSOLUTE GENIUS!

[@danyelleanthon3764]

I've loved his music for many years, and have long admired his story of strength and struggle. This was great Matt.

[@987946216430]

16:51, this song gives me chills from the start. every. time.

[@candicedawn9700]

What's the song?

[@Aphrobam]

I saw your comment as I listened to him talking and I held my breath hoping to hear THAT song.....and then it was that song. After aaaallll these years. Beautiful. (SONG: STRANGE DAYS)

[@godessesque]

Having heard it live 3 times... I weep every time

[@francesdarwin1184]

7:38 "That's styrofoam" was hilarious. Oh Matt.

[@jamesatkins7207]

Thanks Matt! Been a huge fan of your music for over 20 years now and now it all makes sense why! Please keep sharing your genius with the world. All the best!

[@camerakatie]

how did i not know this happened. better then any VIP right, 2 songs (?!) and epic insight from the artist. Matt I love you so much thank you.

[@booboo1970]

Matthew Good is amazing.

[@doncap3172]

My Favourite Canadian Musician !!!! Great Human Being !!!

[@g0ldenfishscales]

So much respect for this guy. :)

[@wevsitekilo9072]

Absolute legend

[@georgianbayhypnosis4886]

THANK you Matt for the music!!!!

[@DerekMatthewCoverSongs]

I never noticed until now , but does anyone else agree his voice sounds very similar to Robert Downey Jr (when he’s talking)...Like just close your eyes and listen ... it’s crazy ! Anyways , love this forum of sharing info . So cool how he opens and closes w a song . Ty Matt Good

[@Aphrobam]

Omg yes

[@steveleeart]

RDJ did do an album of songs and yeah they do sound alike.

[@MichaelHBallard]

Matt, sharing your story will help so many. I admire your courage to tell your story.Thank you. #Respect #Courage

[@jamiehaley1536]

Much Respect Matt..Surprised I Am Just Seeing This Video Now..Bigger Fan Of You Now🙏

[@cailynfirth]

I love ted talks and i love matt good.... cannot believe this happened 4 years ago ....

[@RLSteffler]

Haha he was so pissed that they didn't put up his picture. I saw him last year at a small venue and he talked between almost every song, such an awesome guy

[@victortheriault5021]

You’re one of the most underrated songwriters in American history Matthew.

[@nebjenter4927]

Canadian history*

[@Rock_Girl_Daze]

🇨🇦 finest

[@viciousfeline438]

Much love from niagara 💜

[@georgianbayhypnosis4886]

Beautiful Soul Beautiful Mind beautiful music. Thank you Matt

[@godessesque]

Beautiful.... Midnight? 😂

[@stainedglasspixie]

Strange Days. Prophetic.

[@scotttuck364]

Even more so now

[@capturedbyjupiter]

The GOAT singer/songwriter. He would never admit it, but he is.

[@AdelleRamcharan]

Always love and support you Matt

[@cog1140]

Calling out bs when nobody else has the courage to isn't an illness, it's called integrity. Science hangs labels on those outside the box. I've been off antidepressants for over 5 years, and off the friends and family with the consumer culture "my house is nicer than yours" value system. There is a God who saves and he can save you too.

[@bryanfrombuffalo7685]

Amen to that...I got opiates after 10 year's

[@dragolath62]

i wouldnt say he changed, he got older. matured

[@dragolath62]

+Matt W yea he looked like a Heroin junky in the mgb days

[@l337nik]

+Matt W Because he was going through manic periods, going undiagnosed for years. When he finally got on medication, they made him put on weight. I hate when people call him fat, I'm just happy he's getting help.

[@dragolath62]

+1337nik I just saw him live a week ago, he still rocks.

[@willsee8391]

SEEN HIM A COUPLE YEARS AT ROCK THE SHORES, SOUNDED LIKE HE MASTERED HIS CLASSICS... AND SOUNDED LIKE IN HIS PRIME

[@viciousfeline438]

Voice of an angel🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌✊🙇‍♀️

[@IanMacKenziex]

Matt - appreciat your willingness to speak about this subject. Though I question your final analysis of humanity as "the only true parasitic species" who will be our own undoing. Just as you admit the creative process is messy and often bizarre, but can result in utter genious - why would this not apply to the Universe itself? Not to place humanity on some pinnacle, but clearly we are part of a messy, unfolding process that defies explanation. We are the ugliness and the beauty.

[@notadogorcat]

If you can't see that all around you, you're blind. We are in the middle of a mass extinction, the first this planet has ever seen caused by a global super predator - us.

[@jillmichno9545]

He makes everything beautiful ❤️

[@Braydon_Muir]

Brutally Honest

[@franktrentwatts2180]

So needed n loved

[@123uzuz]

Beautiful artist.

[@Rock_Girl_Daze]

Beautiful Matthew 💗🎶

[@jasonmcdonald8799]

Well Being a true poetic genius....and balancing that and mental illness first hand....yes I agree....this title is quite fitting.

[@swift2454]

He played my favourite MGB song at the end

[@cjm537]

Love your music! Thank you SO MUCH for sharing your personal story :) You are an inspiring & intelligent person Matt :) So glad to hear your new music & still love your original music - soundtrack of my life! I love how you point out the sign is styrofoam ;) LOL literally ;)

[@allisonhauser]

Loooove this

[@alexndg5260]

A true musician :)

[@invisibalkid1]

Sometimes you have to give your enemy the weapon so you know how to defeat them, and it reveals who your enemies are, by what they are wielding. I think finding true love might be the same, though reciprocal.

[@MegaMikeylikes]

2018 and why is Matt not in the Rock in Roll Hall Of Fame, well there are artist's inducted with only a small fraction of the songs and videos Matt has done.P.S> great tour of Canada with Our Lady Peace Matt glad you had to add some shows.

[@WalkerStreets]

Wanna share beers and chat with this guy! Would be interesting to pick each others brains

[@juniperabbott2614]

I won't forget that day...

[@hezbb]

I care deeply for his message. I hate that I paid money to hacks, in order to get a few minutes alone with his genius and music, last night. Who ever owns The Seahorse Tavern/The Marquee, in Halifax Nova Scotia, owes this musician an apology.

[@lyseboyce2642]

What happened in Halifax? I saw the VIP option in the tickets. Sounds like the Marquee dropped the ball. I thought the show was really good - so intense and heartfelt.

[@lp2522]

There's my idol!

[@KingGeorge24]

My favourite Canadian musician.

[@MasKistershi]

1st song is a beautiful cover of a Daniel Johnston song.

[@eastondoran6191]

Good ol' Matt, he just winged it :P

[@barrymalcolmlidster7678]

God bless❤

[@CaapriceTube1]

I had the biggest crush on him in the 90s, Apparitions/Load Me up-Carmelina Era. But wow, he's........changed. Still like his music tho.

[@wiegraf9009]

I think like many people, he has gained weight from the meds he is on for his mental health. I've seen it happen to a lot of people and it is really sad to watch. I'm just glad he's functioning as well as he is.

[@artisticaquarius_]

You forgot Rico

[@steveleeart]

Metal illness as a weapon is definitely something I’ve faced being used against myself by others 😢

[@steveleeart]

I hope this Ted talk doesn’t get taken down.

[@ieatass5241]

Does anyone know the first song name

[@stephenhickey8062]

It's called True Love Will Find You In The End, originally by Daniel Johnston

[@joshmurray1261]

this isn’t a tedx but a regular matthew good concert

[@doubleitp]

Right?!?!

[@Arculus192]

Indestructible

[@tisham]

❤️

[@invisibalkid1]

banks of snow sculpted by the winds undertow a sea of endless pristine dunes reflecting a myriad of hues sparkling to mine eye from the mischevious moon flakes pirouette and plummet from valley to summit in the instances of moments that become cherished memories way to soon deep in the night there is o so much light sauntering all about without a care it flouts a purpose beyond our reasons seeming to be teasing us about something we say we believe in and thus we distort and contort lies to truth and back again in crystalline forts we hide amongst the ramparts and sing silly ballads about when we had it and how much worth that there was in it it all added up then, we smoothed it back down again and the fight became something more than it ever was because we just need it to, it just had to be that which we needed so take up your shovel, for we have lots of shovelling to do paths need to be cleared through the perfect menagerie of future that was built out of a sutured past we keep putting back together over and over and over until it adds up the way we like it but the functions a bit frightening if you make it all relative to a viewpoint that isn't so deeply imbedded with yourself all the titles and the wealth couldn't outweigh the virility of good health and the snowflakes tremor grandiosely about in some great earthquake all to settle back in so confortably it hurts admirably deeply and the almost enough that was never enough floats right back into view under the waning sight in the reflected light of the mischevious midnight moon

[@invisibalkid1]

you were my poet, i thanks you for that

[@bailynnmountain]

What is he talking about with the foam finger?

[@Innocuous1]

Miley Cyrus performance at that year's VMA. His timely example of something that was arguably art but also open to negative criticism in the milieu in which it occurred.

[@nathanhammond667]

Hey Luca, the man IS an artist, not a degreed physician. Would you own the brass to tell your story? Yeah, thought so. Fair enough. Next query???

[@LucaAnamaria]

When I posted, I assumed all TED talks were pretty structured. My mistake! Also, I'm happy to tell my own story someday, if anybody wants to hear it.

[@nathanhammond667]

"...there resides, a certain amount of infirmity in all of us. To what level, we demonstrate, remains paramount..." throwing words into a hole publishing...ndh

[@lyndonswan9733]

I'm sure he meant to say Tom Robbins

[@winkstar9265]

Guy loves the pharmaceutical industry

[@misschels975]

I can't believe that's styrofoam.

[@xIceyx115]

wow he talks like Robert downy jr

[@michaelgrey1351]

Well... now I can't unhear it.

[@davidigleniec2483]

I lost it when she died. Im trying but its the end.

[@Johnny_Doe]

Matt Good is turning into Steven Page…

[@TheCrederer]

I'm the first to recognize the daniel johnston cover. Yep

[@IStink3]

+shepaderp dingo Seeing as how Matt tells you at 3:05 that the song he sang was by Daniel Johnson, I doubt you are the first.

[@kerrydustin3996]

*Slow Clap* 👏... 👏.... 👏

[@winkstar9265]

Matrix

[@ryshenton]

So basically what he was saying that there is no such thing as "genius" only mental illness and like...i don't know, life is hard but art gives us meaning. *shrugs* bad title.

[@mango8889]

If you close your eyes and listen to him, he sounds exactly like Robert Downey jr

[@l.r.r.s7535]

touching oneself with a foam finger is marketing, not creativity.

[@TheLastChapter2023]

He sounds just like Robert Downey Jr....

[@limaimaima]

Too bad he’s abusive and hates women.

[@mkultra5752]

Can't take aways his great artistic abilities however. Unfortunately in art we have to seperate art and artist...or not alot of great material would ever be produced.

[@limaimaima]

@@mkultra5752 I disagree

[@ronleblanc4518]

Too bad this clown 🤡 turned out to be an abusive person.

[@arieltaylor735]

Like, this is the first I've heard of this, but listening to the lyrics, this can't possibly be a surprise.

[@rc2760]

So you read an article of someone claiming he's abusive and completely write him off? You're the reason cancel culture exists. You can't assume someone is a certain way just because an article gets published about him with claims that have NOT been proven. And BTW, the person that made those claims has deleted all of her social media and backed off. And honestly, even if these things happened it doesn't take away from his artistry. His demons are what made him able to create. What have you done? And have you looked at your flaws and mistakes lately? We live in a world where a mistake can't happen otherwise your basically lyched for it. Not saying it would be right of him but God damn its like we all forgot we are human. Righteous Ron Leblanc over here thinks otherwise.

[@mkultra5752]

Yeah but his art is still great. Got to seperate art and artist..unfortunately alot of the greatest musicians, actors, painters throughout history are abusive..comes with mental ilness like the genius he was talking about

[@willfoster8232]

After his protestor comments i think he should be dropped in congo where he can enjoy the communist attitude he now seems to share. 🤮

[@bradbarnes6024]

Mr. Hate speech, himself. What a cack.