Expert: Kristen - 9/21/2004

Question
if you were to write a research paper about dave matthews band how would you start your essay and what would your main focus be upon.  In addition are there any books which feature dave matthews band.  

Answer
Personally, I would start the paper out with an attention grabber, talking about a band that has diverse members, multicultural/multi-genre music, and has sold-out tours year after year after year.  Who is this band that draws hordes of people from all across the country?  The Dave Matthews Band!  Then I would discuss who is in the band, each members' background (just the highlights, not every detail), how they came together as a band, and their accomplishments since becoming a band, such as Grammy nominations and wins, platinum-selling albums, sold-out tours, a strong fan-base, etc.  I might also throw in my opinion of where the band will musically be in the future.  Given their vast past, I would say the future is bright for this band.  Personally, I see them in the Rock-N-Roll Hall of Fame someday.  As for books that are out there about the band, there are a few.  They are:   

1.   Dave Matthews Band : Music for the People, Revised and Updated -- by Nevin Martell.
   
2.   Dave Matthews Band FanFare -- by Ariel Chernin (Editor).
*This book is written by the fans - stories from the fans about their encounters with the band or how the band has influenced their life.*
  
3.   Dave Matthews Band : Step Into the Light, New Revised 2nd Edition -- by Morgan Delancey.

*These books are a few years old, so news and information about the band that has happened since these books were published are not included.  I would also use www.davematthewsband.com as a source for information, as there is a history/bio section on that website.  If you're looking for particular information, you can do an internet search, or ask me.  I would be happy to answer any other questions you may have.  Hope this has helped and good luck!