Net worth | $300 million |
---|---|
Full name | David John Matthews |
Born | January 9, 1967 |
Birthplace | Johannesburg, South Africa |
Age | 56 (as of October 12, 2023) |
Height | 6’1″ (185 cm) |
Weight | 175 lbs (79 kg) |
Religion | Agnostic |
Zodiac | Capricorn |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | White |
Occupation | Musician, songwriter, record producer, political activist |
Known for | Lead songwriter, vocalist, and guitarist for the Dave Matthews Band |
Genres | Rock, folk, jazz, jam band, world music |
Instruments | Acoustic guitar, electric guitar, piano, vocals |
Awards | Grammy Award for Best Rock Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group (1996) |
Introduction
Dave Matthews: the enigmatic minstrel of American music, a troubadour for both the soul and society. With his dulcet voice and unrivaled skills on the guitar, this South African-born virtuoso has woven a rich tapestry of songs that resonate through the heart of a nation. As an American musician, songwriter, record producer, and political activist, Dave Matthews has not only sculpted a unique sound but also championed causes that ignite change.
His journey is a global odyssey, beginning in Johannesburg and ultimately finding its home in the heart of the United States. What sets Matthews apart is his ability to blend intricate melodies with poetic lyrics, creating a musical experience that feels like a conversation with your innermost thoughts.
But Dave Matthews is more than just music. He is a passionate advocate for social and environmental causes, a voice for the marginalized and the environment. Through his artistry, he harmonizes the threads of music and activism, weaving a unique tapestry that has not only serenaded our ears but has also moved our souls and stirred our social conscience.
Early Life and Education
Dave Matthews, the maestro of American music and activism, began his life’s journey in Johannesburg, South Africa. At the age of two, his family’s quest for new horizons led them to Yorktown Heights, New York, as his father pursued a career with IBM. The Matthews family briefly relocated to Cambridge, England, in 1974 before returning to New York. Tragedy struck in 1977 when Dave’s father passed away from lung cancer, leaving a profound impact on the young Matthews.
In New York, Dave’s musical odyssey began when his mother introduced him to the melodies of folk legend Pete Seeger. In 1980, he became a U.S. citizen, setting the stage for his remarkable future. Following his graduation from secondary school in 1985, the specter of conscription into the South African military loomed, but his pacifist beliefs prompted him to leave South Africa.
He eventually found his way to Charlottesville, Virginia, in 1986. In Charlottesville, he immersed himself in the local music scene, met his future collaborator Tim Reynolds, and embarked on his musical journey. In 1991, he formed his iconic band, laying the foundation for a legendary career. But before taking the world by storm, he worked as a bartender in Charlottesville, refining his talents. These early chapters in Dave Matthews’ life set the stage for an extraordinary tale of musical prowess and activism that would resonate across the globe.
Career and Work
Albums | |
Year | Name |
1994 | Under the Table and Dreaming |
1996 | Crash |
1998 | Before These Crowded Streets |
1999 | Listener Supported |
2001 | Everyday |
2001 | The Videos |
2002 | Busted Stuff |
2002 | Live at Folsom Field, Boulder, Colorado |
2003 | The Central Park Concert |
2004 | The Gorge |
2005 | Stand Up |
2005 | Weekend on the Rocks |
2007 | Live at Piedmont Park |
2009 | Big Whiskey & the GrooGrux King |
2009 | Across the Pond |
2012 | Away from the World |
2018 | Come Tomorrow |
2023 | Walk Around the Moon |
Songs | |
Year | Name |
1994 | What Would You Say |
1994 | Jimi Thing |
1994 | Typical Situation |
1995 | Ants Marching |
1995 | Satellite |
1996 | Too Much |
1996 | So Much to Say |
1996 | Crash into Me |
1997 | Two Step |
1997 | Tripping Billies |
1998 | Don’t Drink the Water |
1998 | Stay |
1998 | Crush |
1999 | Rapunzel |
2001 | I Did It |
2001 | The Space Between |
2001 | Everyday |
2002 | Where Are You Going |
2002 | Grace Is Gone |
2002 | Grey Street |
2005 | American Baby |
2005 | Dreamgirl |
2006 | Everybody Wake Up |
2006 | Smooth Rider |
2009 | Funny the Way It Is |
2009 | Why I Am |
2009 | You and Me |
2012 | Mercy |
2012 | If Only |
2018 | Samurai Cop |
2018 | That Girl Is You |
2018 | Again and Again |
2019 | Come Tomorrow |
2023 | Madman’s Eyes |
2023 | Monsters |
2023 | Walk Around the Moon |
2023 | Break Free |
Filmography | ||
Year | Title | Role |
2003 | Where the Red Fern Grows | Will Coleman |
2005 | Because of Winn-Dixie | Otis |
2007 | I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry | Salesman |
2008 | You Don’t Mess with the Zohan | James |
2009 | Lake City | Red |
2011 | Just Go with It | Ian Maxtone Jones |
2023 | Pete the Cat (TV series) | Papi (voice) |
Net Worth
Year | Net Worth |
2021 | $250 million |
2022 | $280 million |
2023 | $300 million |
Family and Relationship
Relation | Name/Info |
Father | John Matthews |
Mother | Val Matthews |
Siblings | 4 |
Spouse | Jane Matthews, Anne Matthews, Peter Matthews |
Children | Grace Anne Matthews, August Oliver Matthews, and Stella Busina Matthews |
Achievements and Awards
Achievements and Awards |
2 Grammy Awards |
1 ASCAP Film and Television Music Award |
D.M.A. honoris causa |
Gibson Award for Best Acoustic Guitarist |
Quick Facts
- Dave was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, but moved to the United States in 1986.
- He is a self-taught musician and started playing guitar at the age of nine.
- He is best known as the lead songwriter, vocalist, and guitarist for the Dave Matthews Band.
- He is a passionate activist and has used his platform to raise awareness of issues such as environmentalism, hunger, and poverty.
- He is the co-founder of a nonprofit organization, BAMA Works Fund, which supports sustainable agriculture and rural communities.
FAQs
Q: What is Dave Matthews’ net worth?
A: His net worth is estimated to be around $300 million in 2023.
Q: What is Dave Matthews’ most popular song?
A: His most popular song is arguably “Crash Into Me,” which has been streamed over 1 billion times on Spotify. Other popular songs include “Satellite,” “So Much to Say,” and “Ants Marching.”
Q: How many albums has Dave Matthews sold?
A: He has sold over 31 million albums in the United States alone. His band has also had seven consecutive studio albums debut at No. 1 on the Billboard charts.
Q: Is Dave Matthews married?
A: Yes, he is married to Ashley Harper. They have been married since 2000 and have three children together.
Q: What is Dave Matthews’ musical style?
A: His music is a blend of rock, folk, jazz, and world music. His band is known for their improvisational live shows, which often feature extended jams and solos.