Ricky Nelson, a celebrated musician, was the proud father of five children, including twin sons Matthew and Gunnar, who followed in his footsteps. The brothers formed their band, Nelson, and gained fame in the early 1990s with the help of MTV, captivating audiences with their powerpop sound and harmonized melodies. Despite stepping into their father’s shadow, they carved a distinct identity for themselves.
In January 2023, the Nelson twins shared a nostalgic video on Instagram, playing their hit song Love & Affection. Fans praised their timeless appearance and talent, with comments comparing them to their late father. “Your voices sound just like your dad’s,” one user noted, while others admired how the brothers had “aged well” and maintained their signature charm.
Family Life and Personal Joys
Both Matthew and Gunnar have embraced family life alongside their careers. Matthew, married to Kari Ahlstrom, is a devoted father to their son, Ozzie, born in August 2014. The proud dad often shares glimpses of his family on social media, posting heartwarming pictures of holidays and adventures, including snow days in Tennessee.
Gunnar lives in Nashville with his wife, Lila Nelson, and her three daughters from a previous relationship. While Gunnar hasn’t officially adopted the girls, he plays a significant role in their lives as a supportive co-parent. He frequently shares loving tributes to Lila online, showcasing their enduring bond and happiness as a family.
Overcoming Struggles and Finding Their Voice
Despite their public success, Matthew and Gunnar’s journey was fraught with challenges, especially after their father’s tragic passing in 1985. The twins revealed how difficult it was to establish their music career, as their mother, Kristin Nelson, was unsupportive and openly critical of their aspirations. Following a messy divorce from Ricky, Kristin discouraged her sons from pursuing music, even writing letters that dismissed their dreams.
Adding to their struggles, the brothers faced financial difficulties after their father’s death. Contrary to public perception, Ricky had been in significant debt, leaving Matthew and Gunnar with only $26 after settling expenses. They endured hardships, including sleeping in their car and couch surfing, before finally securing a recording deal. Their unique style and determination eventually helped them stand out, even as they battled stereotypes and misconceptions in the industry.
A Complicated Relationship with Their Mother
Matthew and Gunnar have spoken candidly about their strained relationship with their mother, describing her as a “narcissist” who struggled to support their ambitions. Matthew shared that Kristin’s behavior often stemmed from unresolved bitterness, as the twins reminded her of their father. Even their successful concerts failed to gain her approval. On one notable occasion, Kristin requested tickets for a show at the Universal Amphitheater, which held sentimental value as Ricky’s last performance venue, only to give the tickets to her housekeeper.
While the twins yearned for their mother’s validation, her continued disinterest deepened the divide between them. Nevertheless, they acknowledged that her negativity fueled their determination to succeed and become independent.
A Father’s Love and Lasting Legacy
Amid their challenges, the twins held onto fond memories of their father, who had always supported their musical dreams. Ricky Nelson’s tragic death in a plane crash on New Year’s Eve 1985 left an indelible mark on his family. The twins were supposed to accompany him on the ill-fated flight but were spared when Ricky insisted they travel separately. Gunnar believes their father’s intuition saved their lives, a decision that underscored his protective nature.
Reflecting on their journey, Matthew and Gunnar credit their father’s influence and the hardships they endured for shaping them into resilient men. Though they continue to navigate complex relationships and career pressures, they remain dedicated to honoring their father’s legacy while forging their path in the music world.
