Best National New ARtist

Matchbox 20

Originally formed under the name Tabitha's Secret, the Florida-based group have skyrocketed to commercial success through a rigorous touring schedule that began with the release of their debut album, Yourself or Someone Like You, in October 1996. Since then, they have become a staple of MTV and the Billboard music charts, where their freshman effort has been certified quadruple platinum. After several line-up changes, the original core of lead vocalist Rob Thomas, bassist Brian Yale, and drummer Paul Doucette was joined by lead guitarist Kyle Cook and rhythm guitarist Adam Gaynor. Their music is decidedly radio friendly and guitar driven. It received notoriety for its first single, "Push," which discussed an abusive relationship, bringing them a great deal of controversy over what the band was actually advocating. Thomas later quieted the uproar when he revealed the lyrics were about a relationship in which he was the abused partner. Many of Yourself or Someone Like You's lyrics center around Thomas's experiences living in a broken home and dealing with severed relationships. "Real World" delves into facing one's limitations while "3 A.M." talks about his mother's alcohol abuse. After serving as an opening act for the Rolling Stones' Bridges to Babylon Tour, Matchbox 20 were nominated for a Grammy for Best Rock Performance Duo or Group Vocal and collaborated with Jewel, the Goo Goo Dolls among others on A Tribute to Rumours, new interpretations of the Fleetwood Mac album. Recently, they recorded a performance for the MTV live concert series, Live from the 10 Spot. For the time being, Matchbox 20 plan on taking a little more time to enjoy their success before going back into the studio.

-- Kelly O'Connor