Who is the Dave Matthews Band? Five years ago that question would have gotten nothing more than a weird stare and a stupid look. But today you would get everything but that. The Dave Matthews Band is one of the most successful bands of the late 20th century. But many ask how a band so new has become so successful in such a relatively short period of time. Many come to wonder if it was their music, their look, or possibly something else that has made the Dave Matthews Band what they are today. It is my opinion that the Dave Matthews Band's success comes from their earth-toned acoustical music, their buttoned flannel shirts and their khaki pants, their heart-laced lyrics, and the need for many Jerry Garcia "Dead Head" survivors to find a new musical connection to life.

Using the Official Dave Matthews Web Page (http://dmband.com) as a reference tool, I found that the life of the Dave Matthews Band saga begins early in 1991.Dave Matthews decided to put the songs he'd been writing on tape. But rather than recording just his voice and guitar, he decided to gather some other musicians to give the project a fuller sound. Carter Beauford, Leroi Moore, Stefan Lessard, and Boyd

But the death of Jerry Garcia and the flock of newly dedicated fans weren't the only reasons for popularity for the Dave Matthews Band. The sound, the feeling of the music that Dave Matthews Band creates, makes for their own following, like no other before. As David E. Thigpen, author, Time magazine puts it:

Gulla, Bob. "Before These Crowded Streets." Audio Aug 1998.

Bresnark, Robin. "The Dave Matthew Band gives us a guided tour of Washington DC." Melody Maker Aug 8, 1998.

The DMB offers an alternative to alternative rock: music that is conspicuously eclectic but plainly rooted in the familiar bedrock of Americana, the blues and jazz. By introducing acoustic guitars and shifting tempos punctuated by violins, penny whistles and other flourishes of world music and jazz, the band has forged a cerebral yet commercially appealing sound, surpassing competitors like Phish. (Thigpen)

Sheffield, Rob. "Stunt/Before These Crowded Streets." Rolling Stone Dec 24, 1998-Jan 7, 1999.

...I let you down; How could I be such a fool like me; Tail between my legs; I'm a puppy for your love; I'm a puppy for your love; I have no lid upon my head; But if I did; You could look inside and see what's on my mind; oh it's you...

In conclusion, the Dave Matthews Band is nothing short than incredible. By projecting a very laid back and functional attitude, with a very open musical style, the band will continue to top the billboard charts for years to come. Dave Matthews' musical style will live forever, and I am sure that Jerry Garcia is very happy knowing that his following is now sleeping in line for hard to get tickets to every show Dave Matthews Band plays. Talent flourishes in the band, and for anyone who has any of their CD's, you'll know that their live music is incredibly different. But one thing is for sure, this band will be releasing albums for years to come; and it's nice to hear music that is not filled with hate or violence, but filled with heart and soul lyrics, and a non-violent tone.

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Approximate Word count = 1598
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page double spaced)