Friday, September 05, 2003

UNCW Hosts Matchbox Twenty in Concert: General Tickets on Sale Sept. 8

WILMINGTON, NC– The University of North Carolina at Wilmington will host Matchbox Twenty in concert as part of Family Weekend at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27 in UNCW’s Trask Coliseum. Tickets go on sale for the general public, Monday, Sept. 8 at the University Union Information Center, in person or by calling 910/962-3841. The concert is sponsored by the Division of Student Affairs.

Since making their debut six years ago, Matchbox Twenty has become one of the most admired and consistently successful rock bands in recent history, with over 20 million albums sold worldwide. Named as the Best New Band" in the 1997 Rolling Stone readers’ poll, they have since moved from accomplishment to accomplishment, clearly establishing themselves as an exceptional unit, both in the studio and on stage.

After nearly two years of solid touring in support of 2000's "mad season by Matchbox Twenty," the band pulled off the road in October 2001, treating themselves to a much-needed respite. They spent time with their friends and families, as well as embarking on extracurricular activities—Thomas penned songs for artists like Willie Nelson, Mick Jagger, Carlos Santana, and Marc Anthony; guitarist Cook worked with his other band, The New Left; drummer Doucette and guitarist Adam Gaynor wrote and recorded songs of their own.

Their new release, "More Than You Think You Are," is their most accomplished and vital work to date, encompasses robust rockers like "Cold" to tender gems like "The Difference." The album represents a remarkably realized expression of the band's musical potency and power. Alongside a slate of extraordinary new songs penned by the band's Grammy Award-winning lead vocalist Rob Thomas, the set also features writing contributions from band mates Paul Doucette and Kyle Cook. As a result, the album flashes with collaborative spirit and celebratory energy. With "More Than You Think You Are," their third outing, Matchbox Twenty has crafted a richly satisfying collection of heartfelt and passionate rock 'n' roll.

Matchbox Twenty has logged an extraordinary string of hit singles, including such chart-topping favorites as "Push," "3AM," "Real World," "Back 2 Good," "If You're Gone," "Mad Season" and the #1 Billboard "Hot 100" smash, "Bent." In addition, Rob Thomas has received a number of songwriting honors, including: three Grammy Awards; a remarkable 11 BMI Awards, including the 1999 BMI Pop Songwriter of the Year and 2002 BMI Pop Song of the Year (for "If You're Gone"); and Billboard Songwriter of the Year honors for two years running.

"More Than You Think You Are" follows the RIAA quadruple-platinum "mad season by Matchbox Twenty," released in May 2000. Matchbox Twenty made their recording debut in 1996 with "Yourself or Someone Like You," which earned the RIAA's prestigious Diamond Award and has been certified 12X platinum in the U.S. alone.

For additional information visit www.uncw.edu/activities.

BOX OFFICE AND TICKET INFORMATION

Event: Matchbox Twenty as part of UNCW Family Weekend

Date: Saturday, September 27, 2003 – 7 p.m.

Where: Trask Coliseum, UNCW

Ticket Prices: $35 for public (limit 10)

$30 for UNCW faculty/staff with ID (limit one at $30)

$25 for UNCW students with ID (limit one at $25)

On Sale: Tickets currently on sale to UNCW students, staff and faculty

General public tickets on sale Monday, September 8, 2003

Doors Open: 6 p.m.

Show Details: Tickets available at the University Union Information Center by calling 910/962-3841 or in person. VISA, MASTERCARD accepted

NOTE TO MEDIA: For more information, contact Angie Roth, 910/962-3827 or rothar@uncw.edu

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