Equipped with a guitar in one hand and a dream in the other, Mathais Negrete, a musician, is on a journey to spread his music through the world. Negrete, better known as Sebby Ellison in Edmond’s local music scene, is currently in the process of writing his debut album.
“I have my first full album coming out March 27, 2026,” Negrete said. “It’s gonna be a big release, hopefully, and I’m trying to get the people I love involved with it as much as I can.”
This musical dream started quite young for Negrete through his classes and friends. His goals sparked a drive and love for the musical and artistic process.
“I’ve had this dream since sixth grade, that’s when I met my best friend, who would talk about starting to make a band,” Negrete said. “I’ve been writing for about 8 years now, after that.”
Inspired by his favorite artists, ranging from high-energy rock to slow folk pop, these influences created a new sound for Negrete.
“Fyodor Dostoevsky, Elliot Smith and the Beatles have been some of the most influential artists in developing my sound,” Negrete said.
These influences shaped his musical sound and the process in which he writes, coming up with complex melodies mixed with a punk style. This niche has become his staple over the years of writing and releasing music.
“I capture an idea or a story in a poem and then write instruments for it,” Negrete said. “I turn it into a song I would want to hear, so I know those listening will too.”
Every Sebby Ellison single has been recorded and released from his bedroom. This process of recording involves a couple of steps, as explained by Negrete himself.
“First, I start with guitar rhythm tracks,” said Negrete. “After, I move on to vocals and then lead guitar tracks, bass lines and I add vocal layers after that. Then, finally, I lay some drum tracks.”
Negrete is very active in the local music scene with his solo music, participating in many musical projects and playing shows for local fans. Carter Wright, another local musician, has collaborated with Negrete in the past.
“It’s both of us progressing as we go, not one-upping each other, but wanting to get better with each other,” Wright said. “It’s been a very high motivating factor.”
Negrete is not only focused on his solo music and collaboration with other artists, but also on his many bands.
“I used to be a part of a band called Life Cries and also Wreckstate, which were short-lived,” Negrete said. “Right now, I’m currently a part of an emo band called Hold On To Your Wings, and I’m also a part of a duo group called Stop The Act, which is just me and my best friend.”
No journey is complete without its set of ups and downs. Negrete’s journey is no exception to that. Challenges come with everything, especially when a passion becomes a career.
“It’s just challenging getting people to listen and believe in me,” Negrete said.
Who knows what the future holds for this young talent? Negrete shared his plans for the future of his musical career, wanting to continue creating and performing music.
“Hopefully, I’m just able to keep making music and performing,” Negrete said. “I have no clue what the future holds for me, but I’m grateful to be playing music.”
Negrete’s ultimate goal with music is to play to those who understand the pain and the message behind the songs he creates.
“My goal is to bring awareness through my music, not only just creating art for people to enjoy, but also by helping influence the world around me,” Negrete said.
Negrete’s music can be found on any streaming platform under the name Sebby Ellison, including Spotify and Apple Music. Negrete’s album will be released this upcoming March with 11 tracks.
Contact Ethan Marten at [email protected]