Since the early ’90s we’ve become used to Dave Matthews sightings around town—the affable hometown boy is generous with his time and his support of the local community. Yet there was something extra special about his pop-in to the final night of Live Arts’ 30 in 30 virtual celebration in May. With little fanfare, Matthews appeared onscreen from a studio and reminisced about his early days playing at Live Arts.
“I played this song at one of the coffee houses in the very beginning, and it was nice to be a part of it,” he drawled before launching into an acoustic rendition of DMB’s “I’ll Back You Up.” Matthews talked about trying to figure out his life during his time as a local bartender, something he says he’s “not doing as much” nowadays, and gave credit to Live Arts and community theater for helping to ease his fear of performing in front of people. “Which I still am,” he admitted before sending the audience on its way with a heartfelt delivery of “Virginia in the Rain.”
