Why subscribe?

I wanted to create a space to connect. A space for positivity, encouragement. I want this space to have separation from the noise of social media. I made this group for myself, as I have felt a lacking in personal connection and community over the past few years. I want there to also be an in-person element to this group, which I realize is extremely limited based on geography, but I’d like to make a space for virtual and physical hangouts. Join my Band Of Like-Minded Individuals today! What is a Like-Minded Individual? It’s really just anyone who cares about guitars, kindness, good music, great coffee, and overall good vibes. Any and all are welcome!

Stay up-to-date with me, 1981 INVENTIONS, and even a little Relient K

I’m gonna create some cool perks for fans of 1981 Inventions and also my band, Relient K. You can count on some in-depth updates on what goes on behind the scenes at 1981 HQ, recording, thoughts on my day to day life, parenting nine kids while running a business (oof), and you can join the conversation in this unique way to stay connected.

Included segments include:

Monthly Giveaways! (actual good stuff like pedals etc)

Interviews with friends - audio + text

Exclusive access to 1981 INVENTIONS pedal releases, secret merch, and an insider look into my daily process

GEAR-POST (TRADING POST) - exclusive access to my personal collection listings, and a space to list your own things

IRL HANGZ - these will likely take place in Nashville or here in FL. Come hang “in real life” if you can! We can play with pedals, amps, drums even? Build a board together? Maybe just have a beer and chill?

Things I Learned On My Run - I try to run a lot and I always have thoughts that I think could find a nice home here. Also, find me on NIKE RUN CLUB and we can run together! I don’t run competitively, or even for fitness, but more for headspace.

Currently Listening / Reading

Join the “band”

I always use this unfunny dad joke of asking people to be in a band with me. This is obviously impossible in the traditional sense of the word in most cases, but I thought “band” would be a cool way to describe what I’m trying to do here. Be part of a community of people who share your interests / values / and likely an odd affinity for guitar gear. This is not a place for negativity or typical message board ugliness. This is a place where we can bounce ideas off each other - build pedalboards together. A place for honest reactions and thoughts, but not for demeaning anyone who might come at it from a different place. If you’re like me, you’ve likely tried to steer clear of gear related message boards, Facebook, YouTube, and now maybe even Instagram a little bit?

I’m making this space because I need it, and I am happy to have you along whether you choose to be a paid subscriber or not!

And lastly, I promise I won’t pull this card often, but my wife and I have nine (9!) kids to support and care for. And let me just say that it is a lot!

To find out more about the company that provides the tech for this newsletter, visit Substack.com.

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Subscribe to Matthew Hoopes' Band Of Like-Minded Individuals

Thoughts + Community + Being the Scenes + Exclusive Releases This is Matthew Hoopes of 1981 INVENTIONS / RELIENT K

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Veteran guitarist, typical father of 9. Likes include sunsets and long walks on the beach. I love golf, running, basketball, guitar gear, and a good book. I play guitar in Relient K in my free time, and I build pedals under 1981 Inventions.