The Ballad of Blue Ridge Bootleg
Our Story
Our Story
Our Mission
Through meticulously crafted roasts that honor Appalachian traditions, Blue Ridge Bootleg delivers more than just coffee—every cup tells a story, inspired by the road and rooted in the mountains that we call home.
Back to the Roots
Matt King is the creative mastermind behind Blue Ridge Bootleg where he seamlessly blends the attention to detail of songwriting with his love for roasting with a deeply rooted mountain heritage and the results are truly unique offerings. Born and raised in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Matt’s roots are steeped in the traditions and culture of this unique region, inspiring everything he creates.
Along with founding Blue Ridge Bootleg, Matt has enjoyed a remarkable 20-year career as a recording artist and songwriter in Nashville, Tennessee where he still writes and records. He recorded two traditional country albums for Atlantic Records, "Five O'Clock Hero and "Hard Country" along the way, captivating audiences nationwide with his authentic Appalachian sound. His critically acclaimed collaboration with producer Jay Joyce, “Rube” explored the darker side of Appalachian culture, including the spiritual, physical, and mental struggles that countless mountain folks can relate to. This creative complexity and unfiltered storytelling have been central to Matt’s journey, both in music and in the coffee world.
The long days and sleepless nights as a touring musician gives Matt a unique connection to coffee culture. Visiting countless cafés across the country, he discovered not just a love for roasting exceptional coffee, but also a genuine appreciation for the community and creativity it fosters. Those stops became moments of solace, where ideas as bold as the coffee in his cup began to flow.
Blue Ridge Bootleg is an authentic reflection of Matt’s personal and professional journey—a tribute to his Appalachian roots and the memories he collected along the way. Partnering with Tembo Hospitality Group, he has channeled his passion for craftsmanship into a venture that celebrates bold flavors and meaningful connections.