Bluegrass Star: Matthew McConaughey Shows Off His Musical Chops in 'The Rivals of Amziah King'

Audiences can now count bluegrass music as one of Matthew McConaughey's many talents. In his new movie The Rivals of Amziah King (in theaters Aug. 14), McConaughey, 56, strums the mandolin and sings his heart out. As the titular Amziah, a beekeeping expert and musician in his Oklahoma neighborhood, the actor performs multiple songs with Ben Hardesty, Owen Teague, Rob Morgan and more.

A new clip from the movie doubles as a music video: "Quill," originally from the band The Last Bison, features McConaughey and Hardesty on vocals and Teague on the violin, all evoking a spirited Americana sound from a simple dining room. The song also features singers Miranda Zickler, Andrea Pister and Angelina LookingGlass.

A Scene Stealer

"We're not done yet, we're not done yet," chants a grinning McConaughey midway through the song. The Oscar winner cajoles a reluctant LookingGlass, who plays Amziah's former foster child Kateri, into singing along. The moment captures the warmth and spontaneity of the film, as a simple performance becomes a communal celebration.

The clip showcases McConaughey's natural musicality and his ability to inhabit a character fully. He doesn't just play Amziah; he becomes him, complete with the musical prowess that defines the character. The mandolin is not just a prop; it's an extension of his performance, and his singing voice is surprisingly soulful.

A Labor of Love

Writer-director Andrew Patterson's mystery-thriller-comedy, which premiered to strong reviews at the 2025 South by Southwest Film & TV Festival, costars Kurt Russell, Cole Sprouse, Scott Shepherd and Tony Revolori. The film tells the story of a charismatic and musically gifted man who leads a bluegrass-playing band of misfits while overseeing the premier honey-making operation in his Oklahoma town.

Lakeshore Records released "Quill," from the forthcoming Amziah King soundtrack, on Friday, Aug. 7. Patterson's movie features McConaughey and other stars performing the music of noted bluegrass and folk artists. The soundtrack is a labor of love, with the cast and crew working closely with musicians to ensure the authenticity of the performances.

McConaughey's Musical Journey

McConaughey's turn in The Rivals of Amziah King is not his first foray into music. He has performed on screen before, notably in the 2019 film The Beach Bum, where he sang and played guitar. However, this is his most extensive musical performance to date, and it represents a significant departure from his typical roles.

The actor, known for his iconic performances in Dazed and Confused, The Dallas Buyers Club, and Interstellar, has long been interested in music. In fact, McConaughey is known for his eclectic taste in music, often sharing his playlists and musical discoveries on social media. His love for music is evident in his performance, which feels genuine and heartfelt.

The Cast and Crew

The film boasts an impressive cast, including Kurt Russell, Cole Sprouse, Scott Shepherd, and Tony Revolori. The ensemble brings the story to life, each actor delivering a performance that complements McConaughey's turn. The chemistry between the cast members is evident, and the film has been praised for its strong performances and its ability to balance humor, heart, and suspense.

Patterson's direction has also been a point of praise. The filmmaker, known for his work on The Vast of Night, has a knack for creating atmospheric and engaging stories. In The Rivals of Amziah King, he has crafted a world that feels both authentic and cinematic, a testament to his skill as a storyteller.

The Soundtrack

The Amziah King soundtrack is a collection of bluegrass and folk songs performed by the cast. The decision to have the actors perform the music live on set adds to the film's authenticity and creates a sense of spontaneity that cannot be replicated in a studio.

The soundtrack is a celebration of the musical traditions of Oklahoma and the American South. It features a mix of traditional songs and original compositions, all performed with passion and skill. The music is an integral part of the film, helping to define the characters and the world they inhabit.

The Reviews and Anticipation

The Rivals of Amziah King has already generated significant buzz, with early reviews praising the film's performances, its script, and its direction. The film has been described as a "charming and heartfelt" story, with McConaughey's performance being singled out for praise.

The anticipation for the film's release is high, with fans eager to see McConaughey in a role that showcases his musical talents. The film's release in theaters on Aug. 14 is a significant event, and it is expected to be a hit with audiences.

A Career-Defining Performance?

For McConaughey, The Rivals of Amziah King represents a new chapter in his career. He has long been known for his versatility, but his turn as a bluegrass musician is a departure that has surprised and delighted audiences. The film is a testament to his willingness to take risks and to explore new creative avenues.

Whether the film will be a career-defining performance remains to be seen, but it is certainly a memorable one. McConaughey's performance is a reminder of his talent and his ability to transform himself into any character.

Matthew McConaughey's turn in The Rivals of Amziah King is a delightful surprise. The film showcases his musical talents and his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his roles. With a stellar cast, a compelling story, and a soundtrack that celebrates bluegrass music, the film is a must-see for fans of McConaughey and music alike.

As McConaughey continues to surprise and delight audiences, The Rivals of Amziah King stands as a testament to his versatility and his enduring appeal. The circus of Hollywood is always evolving, but McConaughey's star power shows no signs of fading.