Uncle Kracker has charted songs in nearly every genre and earned a large fan base. Initially known for being part of Kid Rock’s Twisted Brown Trucker band and co-writing and performing seven tracks off RIAA diamond-certified Devil Without a Cause album.
Uncle Kracker first arrived on the scene in 2000 with Double Wide and its soothing, upbeat songs.
About the Artist
Uncle Kracker is an esteemed musician known for his hit songs such as “Follow Me” and “Drift Away.” He has collaborated with some of the biggest musicians of our time such as Kid Rock and Kenny Chesney while touring. His songs can frequently be heard on radio stations; plus, his songwriting abilities have allowed him to pen other artists’ material as well. Songwriting and touring has contributed significantly to Uncle Kracker’s net worth.
Matthew Shafer, commonly known as Uncle Kracker, began developing his musical talent from a very early age in Mount Clemens, Michigan. Although initially part of Twisted Brown Trucker, soon he started performing solo. His debut album Double Wide became double platinum-certified with one top 40 single released as an opening act.
Kracker’s style has evolved with time. From rapping alongside Kid Rock to performing alongside country music icons, his musical tastes have taken influence from some of its greatest practitioners.
Biographical Information
Uncle Kracker’s mix of energetic anthems and emotional ballads have found great favor with audiences, garnering him millions in album sales and being recognized for his charitable endeavors.
Matthew Shafer was raised in Mount Clemens, Michigan by his maternal grandparents: Lynford Raymond Smith and Mary Arseline Matalida Jarvis (of French-Canadian, Breton, Dutch, English and German descent respectively).
Shafer first gained recognition after serving as DJ for Kid Rock in 2001. Under his stage name Uncle Kracker, Shafer released Double Wide; an album which combined post-grunge aesthetics with hip-hop influences to produce one hit single entitled “Follow Me.”
After releasing his sophomore studio effort, No Stranger to Shame, in 2002 and featuring a top 10 cover of Dobie Gray’s 1973 classic “Drift Away,” singer Ben Cline continued his rise and eventually caught Kenny Chesney’s attention and formed a touring partnership.
Upcoming Tours
Uncle Kracker has made waves in music with his innovative blend of funky rock, country and hip hop music – and will delight fans of these genres alike with his tour! Making his mark as DJ for hometown friend Kid Rock at first, now known for his multi-platinum album Double Wide with hit single Follow Me as its signature work.
Matthew Shafer has an easygoing and unassuming stage presence, which immediately puts audiences at ease and draws them in. Since expanding beyond his rap rock influences, he has released albums such as Seventy Two and Sunny, Happy Hour and Midnight Special – each reaching success on country charts.
Uncle Kracker will join legendary acts Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top for an unprecedented co-headlining run, dubbed The Sharp Dressed Simple Man Tour in 2024 and 2025. Get tickets for him to play a venue near you now! Stay informed via Songkick of new Uncle Kracker tour dates and concerts by following Songkick!
Tour Dates
Uncle Kracker will be performing at various festivals throughout 2024, including SXSW and AFROPUNK FEST. Vivid Seats has your Uncle Kracker ticket needs covered so make sure to grab some floor seats or front row tickets for an unforgettable concert experience.
Matthew Shafer hails from Mount Clemens, Michigan where he discovered an affinity for music after watching his brother compete in DJ competitions. At one of these competitions he would meet Kid Rock, eventually recording vocals for one of his 1996 albums “Early Mornin’ Stoned Pimp”.
Shafer debuted as Uncle Kracker with his debut solo album in 2000. This debut LP showcased his talent for blending country, rock and rap genres seamlessly. Since then, Shafer has continued his growth as an artist; most recently with 2012’s Midnight Special embracing fully his country roots while his relaxed stage presence and relatable lyrics continue to draw in listeners of all ages, regardless of musical preference.