Born with severe hearing loss, Matt Maxey has worn a hearing aid since he was 2 years old. But that hasn’t stopped him from loving music. In fact, he believes all people should be able to enjoy their favorite songs. That’s why Maxey works as a musical sign language interpreter at his own company, DEAFinitely Dope. As musicians like Chance the Rapper and Waka Flocka perform, Maxey stands onstage and signs the lyrics. We asked Maxey what inspires him to bring music to others.
Q: How did you start signing to music?
A: When I was 18, I started learning sign language. I would practice by signing the lyrics of songs. This helped me remember the signs. I loved it!
Q: What made you want to become a musical sign language interpreter?
A: When I was young, I never had role models who were deaf or who were deaf and Black. I started DEAFinitely Dope to help other people who are deaf or hard of hearing like me know they’re not alone. A lot of people think that being deaf means you can’t do what everyone else can, like enjoy concerts. I wanted to show them that isn’t true.
Q: What’s the most important part of your job?
A: I make sure I’m expressing the feelings a musician is trying to express. I study a song’s lyrics for weeks before working at a concert. Many people feel something when they hear music. I want a deaf audience to have those feelings when they see music through the way I sign. It’s worth it to know everyone is able to enjoy an event.