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Matchbox Twenty

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Band Timeline

1995

Formation of Matchbox Twenty

Matchbox Twenty was formed in Orlando, Florida in 1995. The founding members included Rob Thomas (lead vocals, guitar, keyboards), Brian Yale (bass guitar), Paul Doucette (drums, rhythm guitar, backing vocals), and Kyle Cook (lead guitar, vocals). The band emerged from the remnants of a previous band called Tabitha's Secret. Shortly after, Adam Gaynor joined as rhythm guitarist. The name "Matchbox 20" was inspired by a phrase seen on a softball shirt, as suggested by Doucette. Their early formation set the stage for their rise in the American rock scene.
1996

Debut Album Release: Yourself or Someone Like You

In 1996, Matchbox Twenty released their debut album, Yourself or Someone Like You. The album was a major success, achieving diamond certification in the United States by shipping over 12 million copies. It featured hit singles such as "Long Day," "Push," "3 A.M.," "Real World," and "Back 2 Good." Although some early singles did not chart on the Billboard Hot 100 due to rules around single releases, the album built a strong following over the next two years, establishing the band as a significant force in alternative rock.
1999

Rob Thomas’s Collaboration on Santana's "Smooth" and Grammy Wins

In 1999, Rob Thomas collaborated with guitarist Carlos Santana on the song "Smooth," which was included in Santana's comeback album, Supernatural. Originally only a songwriter, Thomas was invited to sing on the track. "Smooth" became a massive hit, winning three Grammy Awards including Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals. This collaboration significantly boosted Thomas's profile and, by extension, increased attention on Matchbox Twenty.
2000

Second Album Release: Mad Season

Matchbox Twenty released their second studio album, Mad Season, in 2000, now under the spelling "Matchbox Twenty." The album was certified 4× platinum in the United States and included successful singles like "Bent," which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and "If You're Gone." The band also released singles "Mad Season" and "Last Beautiful Girl" with moderate success. The album's release solidified their continued popularity and commercial success into the new millennium.
2002

Third Album Release: More Than You Think You Are

In 2002, the band released their third album, More Than You Think You Are. This album was certified 2× platinum in the United States and included several singles that continued Matchbox Twenty's presence in the rock music scene. The album marked the last full-length studio project featuring the original lineup with rhythm guitarist Adam Gaynor before his departure from the band.
2004-2007

Hiatus and Lineup Change

In 2004, rhythm guitarist Adam Gaynor left Matchbox Twenty, leading the band into a hiatus. When they reunited in 2007, Paul Doucette transitioned from drums to rhythm guitar duties, and the band continued as a quartet. That same year, they released a compilation album titled Exile on Mainstream which included previously released hits and six new songs. The compilation was certified gold in the United States, and the band toured to support it before going on another hiatus as Rob Thomas pursued his solo career.
2010

Reunion and Preparing New Material

Matchbox Twenty reunited again in 2010 after a few years of hiatus. The band members, living in different cities, began working on new material individually before regrouping. Rob Thomas announced plans to start working on a new studio album, signaling a renewed commitment to the band's future. This period involved songwriting sessions scattered across New York, Los Angeles, and Nashville, with a large pool of songs created reflecting diverse musical styles.
2012

Release of Fourth Album: North

On September 4, 2012, Matchbox Twenty released their fourth studio album, North. This album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, selling 95,000 copies in its first week. North was the band's first album of all-new material in a decade and their first after Adam Gaynor's departure. The album's production was led by Matt Serletic, marking a return to collaboration with their longtime producer. Songs like "She's So Mean" were released as singles, and the album represented the band's solid return to the mainstream music scene.
2023

Fifth Album Release: Where the Light Goes

Matchbox Twenty released their fifth studio album, Where the Light Goes, on May 26, 2023. This release marked the band's continued evolution and activity in the music industry more than two decades after their debut. The album showcases the band's sustained ability to create engaging rock music and connect with a long-lasting fan base. It highlights their endurance and relevance in contemporary rock music.

Albums

matchbox-twenty_1st_album
Yourself or Someone Like You
12 tracks
1996
matchbox-twenty_2nd_album
Mad Season
13 tracks
2000
matchbox-twenty_3rd_album
More Than You Think You Are
13 tracks
2002
matchbox-twenty_4th_album
North
15 tracks
2012
matchbox-twenty_5th_album
Where the Light Goes
12 tracks
2023
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Paul Doucette

N/A

Kyle Cook

N/A

Brian Yale

N/A

Rob Thomas

N/A

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Adam Gaynor

1995
2005

Story of Matchbox Twenty

Matchbox Twenty: A Rock Band Legacy

Hailing from Orlando, Florida, Matchbox Twenty (also known as Matchbox 20 and MB20) emerged onto the music scene in 1995. This American rock band, fronted by the charismatic Rob Thomas (lead vocals, guitar, keyboards), has become a household name thanks to their infectious melodies and relatable lyrics. They are completed by the tight rhythm section of Brian Yale (bass guitar) and Paul Doucette (drums, rhythm guitar, backing vocals), alongside the skilled lead guitarist and vocalist, Kyle Cook.

Matchbox Twenty's debut album, "Yourself or Someone Like You" (1996), propelled them to global stardom. The album achieved a phenomenal 12x Platinum (diamond) certification in the United States, and multi-platinum status in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. This success was fueled by hits like "Push," "3 AM," and "Long Day."

Their second album, "Mad Season" (2000), further cemented their position as a major force in rock music. The album hit the top three on the Billboard 200 chart and garnered 4x Platinum certification in the United States. Tracks like "Bent" and "If You're Gone" became instant fan favorites.

"More Than You Think You Are" (2002), their third album, continued their impressive run, achieving 2x Platinum status in the United States.

In 2004, the band went on hiatus following the departure of rhythm guitarist Adam Gaynor. Paul Doucette stepped up to fill the void upon their reunion in 2007. They released a compilation album, "Exile on Mainstream," which went Gold in the United States, followed by a tour to support it.

Following another hiatus in 2010, as Rob Thomas pursued his solo career, the band reunited yet again.

Matchbox Twenty's influence on the rock scene is undeniable. Their consistent success throughout the years, coupled with their enduring appeal, has secured them a place in the annals of music history.

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