What makes What Would You Say by Dave Matthews Band notable?

The album's title track became a significant hit, reaching number 6 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and establishing the band's signature sound. Its success contributed to the band's growing popularity during the mid-90s, influencing a wave of jam bands and alternative rock groups that followed. What Would You Say marked the Dave Matthews Band's emergence into the mainstream, following their self-titled debut EP released in 1994. This single helped solidify their presence on radio and paved the way for their debut studio album, 'Under the Table and Dreaming', released later that year.

How many songs are on What Would You Say?

What Would You Say has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

What Would You Say

Dave Matthews Band · 1994

7 min · 2 tracks · rock music

A blend of reflective lyrics and intricate instrumentation creates a rich, melodic tapestry that defines early 90s rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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What Would You Say — This track showcases the band's unique blend of jazz influences and rock sensibilities, featuring thought-provoking lyrics and an engaging melody that resonate with listeners.
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Recently (radio edit) — This track highlights the band's ability to weave introspective storytelling with musical complexity, offering a glimpse into their evolving sound while still appealing to radio audiences.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong melodies and instrumentation but is limited in depth due to its short format.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent acoustic guitar riff that drives the melody, complemented by layered harmonies in the chorus.
The second track, 'Recently', employs a more subdued arrangement with a focus on piano and soft vocals, creating a contrast to the first track.

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

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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 — This single helped solidify the band's mainstream presence and recognition.
Themes: Virginia summers· introspective storytelling
Career context: What Would You Say marked the Dave Matthews Band's emergence into the mainstream, following their self-titled debut EP released in 1994. This single helped solidify their presence on radio and paved the way for their debut studio album, 'Under the Table and Dreaming', released later that year.
Stylistic neighbors: Phish· Widespread Panic· The String Cheese Incident