Matt Berninger
Matt Berninger is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer best known as the frontman and lyricist for the indie rock band The National. Born on February 13, 1971, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Berninger studied graphic design and went on to work in advertising before fully committing to music. Berninger co-founded The National in 1999 with a group of longtime friends, including twin brothers Aaron and Bryce Dessner and Scott and Bryan Devendorf. Known for his distinctive baritone voice and introspective, literate lyrics, Berninger became the emotional center of the band, helping to shape its brooding, cinematic sound. The National gained critical acclaim and a loyal following with albums such as "Alligator," "Boxer," and "High Violet," establishing themselves as one of the most respected bands in indie rock. Over the years, the band's music has been praised for its emotional depth and mature, poetic songwriting, much of which stems from Berninger's personal and reflective style. In 2020, Berninger released his debut solo album, "Serpentine Prison," produced by Booker T. Jones. The album showcased a more stripped-down, personal approach and further demonstrated his skill as a storyteller and vocalist. Outside of music, Berninger has been involved in various collaborative and side projects, including EL VY, a duo formed with Brent Knopf of Menomena. He is also known for his politically conscious lyrics and his openness about mental health struggles, which have informed many of his songs. Berninger lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Carin Besser, a former editor for The New Yorker, who frequently collaborates with him on lyrics. Together, they have one daughter.
