What makes Push by Matchbox Twenty notable?

'Push' stands out for its commercial success, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning multi-platinum certification. The song's candid exploration of emotional struggle resonated with listeners and solidified Matchbox Twenty's place in the late '90s alternative rock movement. Released in 1997, 'Push' came as Matchbox Twenty's debut album, marking their entry into the mainstream music scene. At this time, the band was establishing their identity following their formation in 1995, and they were beginning to attract significant radio play and a growing fanbase.

How many songs are on Push?

Push has 3 tracks, running approximately 12 minutes.

Push

Matchbox Twenty · 1997

12 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A dynamic blend of alternative rock with introspective lyrics and catchy melodies, encapsulating the angst of youth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Push — The title track is a defining anthem that captures the tension between desire and resistance, showcasing Rob Thomas's emotive vocal delivery.
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Busted (acoustic) — This acoustic rendition strips down the instrumentation, allowing for a rawer emotional connection and highlighting the band's versatility.
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Tired (Non-LP) — As a non-album track, 'Tired' offers a glimpse into the band's creative process during this period, featuring poignant lyrics that reflect feelings of exhaustion and longing.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong songwriting and varied arrangements, though its brevity limits deeper exploration.

What we noticed

The main track 'Push' features a dynamic structure with verses that build tension leading into a powerful chorus.
The acoustic version of 'Busted' strips down the instrumentation, highlighting the vocal performance and lyrical content.
The final track 'Tired' presents a more subdued tempo, contrasting with the energy of 'Push' and providing a reflective close to the single.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established Matchbox Twenty's reputation in mainstream music with significant commercial success.
Career context: Released in 1997, 'Push' came as Matchbox Twenty's debut album, marking their entry into the mainstream music scene. At this time, the band was establishing their identity following their formation in 1995, and they were beginning to attract significant radio play and a growing fanbase.
Stylistic neighbors: Goo Goo Dolls· Third Eye Blind· Counting Crows