Matthews also released a solo CD, Some Devil, in 2003 joined by guitarists Tim Reynolds, Trey Anastasio, drummer Brady Blade, and bassist Tony Hall. This group and keyboardist Ray Paczkowski tours as "Dave Matthews & Friends."
Dave also plays some events solo, such as the Benaroya Hall concert, Farm Aid, and various other events.
Dave Matthews also plays acoustic gigs with long time friend Tim Reynolds.
In recent years he has also shown his acting talents, most recently guesting as a savant pianist in the series 'House M.D.' and a non-speaking role as a homosexual fashion advisor in the Adam Sandler film Chuck and Larry. He was also In Don't Mess With the Zohan.
Smooth Rider
Dave Matthews Lyrics
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And then your daddy caught me sneakin' out your bed
It's just a game I play
It's just I roll that way
Don't think, sweet baby, I'm messin' with your head
I'm a smooth rider, baby
You know I just keep movin' on
It's just that I'm in love with you
Hey if you see me out there runnin'
And you head those sirens comin'
Your daddy's crazy with that gun in his hand
If you know they're comin' for me
And you know they're runnin' for me
You know my love won't let them keep me away
I'm a smooth rider, baby
You know I just keep movin' on
Don't know why I like to carry on the way I do
It's just that I'm in love with you
You see me out there runnin'
And you hear the sirens comin'
Your daddy's crazy with that gun in his hand
If you know they're comin' for me
And you know they're runnin' for me
You know my love won't let them keep me away
I'm a smooth rider, baby
Oh I'm a smooth rider, baby
I'll be out there runnin'
Throughout the lyrics of "Smooth Rider", Dave Matthews creates a somewhat chaotic and edgy picture of a sneaky love affair. The singer is in love with someone, but it seems as though their love is forbidden, either by societal norms or perhaps by the other person's family. The opening lyrics suggest that the singer had snuck into this person's bed, but were caught by the girl's father, thereby setting the scene for the rest of the song. The singer seems somewhat unapologetic about their actions, and refers to it as a "game" that they play. He describes himself as someone who keeps moving and carrying on the way he does, without knowing why.
The chorus of the song, “I’m a smooth rider, baby”, suggests that the singer is confident in his ability to get out of sticky situations. He tries to reassure his lover that regardless of what happens, his love for her won’t let him be kept away. The rest of the song is about the singer running from the police and hiding from the father, painting a picture of a love that is tumultuous and dangerous.
Overall, the lyrics of "Smooth Rider" depict a chaotic and unpredictable love affair that seems to be driven by passion and danger. The singer is unapologetic and confident in his ability to keep moving and carry on, despite the obstacles that come his way.
Line by Line Meaning
Last night, no way, I was gonna be left hungry
I refused to go hungry last night and did everything in my power to ensure that I wouldn't.
And then your daddy caught me sneakin' out your bed
Your father caught me leaving your bed secretly without his knowledge.
It's just a game I play
This is just a game or activity that I enjoy participating in.
It's just I roll that way
This is just who I am, and I can't change the way I act or behave.
Don't think, sweet baby, I'm messin' with your head
Don't worry, my actions are not intended to emotionally confuse or hurt you, my dear.
I'm a smooth rider, baby
I am a skilled operator, my love.
You know I just keep movin' on
You know that I keep moving forward with my life and am always looking for the next adventure.
Don't know why I like to carry on the way I do
I can't explain why I behave the way I do or why I enjoy certain activities; it's just who I am.
It's just that I'm in love with you
My behavior is just a result of the intense feelings of affection and attraction that I have toward you.
If you see me out there runnin'
If you happen to see me running or escaping from something, my love.
And you hear those sirens comin'
If you hear the sound of sirens in the distance signaling the approach of the police or other authorities.
Your daddy's crazy with that gun in his hand
Your father is acting irrationally or aggressively, brandishing a weapon in his hand.
If you know they're comin' for me
If you are aware that the authorities are coming to capture or arrest me.
And you know they're runnin' for me
If you are aware that the police are pursuing me and trying to apprehend me.
You know my love won't let them keep me away
You know that my love for you is so intense that no matter what happens or what obstacles I face, I will always find a way to be with you.
Oh I'm a smooth rider, baby
Once again, I am emphasizing my expertise and skill in maneuvering through life's challenges and difficulties.
I'll be out there runnin'
I will always be on the move, never settling down in one place for too long.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: BOYD C. TINSLEY, CARTER A. BEAUFORD, DAVID JOHN MATTHEWS, LEROI H. MOORE, MARK CHRISTOPHER BATSON, STEFAN K. LESSARD
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind