Once upon a time, in a far-off land glittering with dreamers, artists, and the intoxicating pulse of the night was that magical place known as Hollywood—there was little ol’ me, draped in glamour and mystery, alongside the one and only Mojo El Diablo, embarking on our nightly escapades.
It was a chilly, beguiling evening in 2007, the kind of night where the stars themselves seemed to whisper secrets to those who dared to listen. We were on our way to Bar Sinister, lured by the promise of a band called “New Rising Son.” Mojo was in quite the fervor, prattling endlessly about some fellow named Matthew Roberts—a man with a peculiar claim, being none other than the son of the infamous Charles Manson. Mojo was positively obsessed with the idea of introducing him to Stanton LaVey, grandson of the legendary Anton LaVey. It was all rather… dramatic. Though I tried to silence Mojo’s incessant ramblings, something in my soul told me there was more to this than idle talk. Ah, the powers of manifestation. Who can truly say where fantasy ends and reality begins?
After watching the band and because I myself had been someone intrigued by the stories of Charles Manson and noticed the resemblance between this incredible musician I had just seen perform and his “father”. I knew I had to introduce myself. Immediately meeting Matthew there was a connection between us.
However I don’t think that was because I was special or anything after speaking with him in a very loud club like setting i noticed that in our very corner there was a peaceful intimacy about his energy which make all outside distractions disappear. And then, as if on cue, Stanton LaVey appeared from the shadows—oh, yes, I knew him slightly, and I knew, at that moment, that I had to seize my opportunity. With a flourish that only I could pull off, I made the introduction. And darling, as Mojo would later say, *history was made!* The two became fast friends, and I had once again beat Mojo at his own game! After this evening I began an ongoing friendship with both Matthew and an even closer connection with Stanton. Both of whom were not evil whatsoever, both incredibly good gentleman who I was very fond of spending time with and having some of the most amazing philosophical conversations when in their presence. Mojo was well let’s say… a little jealous.
One evening after being followed by under cover cops through out our evenings plans we ended up hanging out at Stanton’s apartment where Matthew read my palm. I remember him looking at my hand and then he started crying and gave me a hug. What he told me I won’t reveal and I’ll never ever speak the words out loud as words have power beyond anything. I will cherish his love for humanity and his friends amongst the memories I have to keep.
Although I have been distant from Hollywood for quite sometime the people I have had the honor of knowing will always hold a strong place in my heart and soul which is why on the evening of Wednesday, September 4 I was contacted and informed that Matthew Roberts had passed the previous day on September 3rd from complications of a hernia surgery he was found by his friend Shawna who has shared these sentiments “My world looks different now that I know he is not in it.
“It is with a very heavy heart I share the news of Matthew Robert’s passing yesterday. I loved him like a brother and considered him a great friend. He was a talented musician along with many other intuitive gifts, he once figured out that my house had mold…he saved my life! I will miss him deeply. I feel like he never got a fair shake in life…I am gutted. We are planning a Memorial event for Matthew at Boardners, Tricia has graciously offered this space that Matthew loved. Please spread the word and write me if you want to be included. We are waiting to hear when the venue is available. Rest in Peace my friend.” ~ Vickie Hamilton (Talent Manager) Matthew like many of us had his ups and downs, addictions, and life’s fair share of bullshit. However he found a world of his own in his music and art. Unfortunately he spent his lifetime not knowing who his real father was however in later years after having countless communications with Charles Manson, Charlie passed and a DNA test was indeed finally done. Matthew shared on a podcast called “Daze with Josh the Lion” that the results have set him free and to know that he is now able to be who he is and move forward knowing that people will like his music for his music and not because of a connection to Charles Manson.
Matthew you made those around you feel love, you were a creative force tangled in the webs of Hollywood you my friend are now going to shinning above and around us all. I do not feel that Matthew is gone from our lives, I do not feel that death holds that kind of power and I believe Matthew felt the same as I on this. With a soul as true and deep as his can never truly be gone but transformed into something more magical. That’s all for now… Don’t miss me too much!