Photo by Rodrigo Simas

Last night, Forest Hills Stadium in New York City welcomed the Dave Matthews Band for their highly anticipated debut performance at the iconic venue. Despite a downpour, the enthusiastic crowd celebrated the music in the beautiful outdoor space, creating an electric atmosphere that set the stage for an unforgettable night of music.

The band kicked off their set with “One Sweet World,” immediately captivating the audience with its soulful melodies and powerful lyrics. The energy continued to build as they launched into crowd favorites like “When the World Ends” and “Busted Stuff,” igniting a wave of sing-alongs and dancing throughout the stadium.

As the rain poured down, during the middle of the set, a collective chant for “JTR” erupted from the crowd, echoing the deep connection between the band and their devoted fans. Responding to the passionate plea, Dave Matthews Band granted their wish and performed “JTR” for the first time since 2021.

The full setlist featured a melange of beloved classics and deep cuts, showcasing the band’s versatility and ability to create a dynamic live experience with songs like “Rapunzel,” “Funny the Way It Is,” and “You & Me,” while newer tracks like “Looking for a Vein” and “Madman’s Eyes” added a fresh element to the performance.

The setlist also featured some notable highlights, including a powerful rendition of “#41” and a seamless transition from “Jimi Thing” into a partial cover of “Brick House.” The evening reached its climax with an encore that left fans craving more, with “Monsters,” “Granny” and “Crush” serving as the show’s encore.

Dave Matthews Band’s Forest Hills debut proved to be an unforgettable night of music and camaraderie. Despite the rain, the band and their devoted fans created an atmosphere filled with joy, unity, and pure musical magic – leaving an indelible mark on Forest Hills and solidifying Dave Matthews Band’s status as one of the most beloved and dynamic live acts around.

Dave Matthews Band
Forest Hills Stadium – New York
June 9, 2023

Set: One Sweet World, When the World Ends, Busted Stuff, Pantala Naga Pampa » Rapunzel, Looking for a Vein, Madman’s Eyes, Funny the Way It Is, Kill the Preacher, Why I Am., Walk Around the Moon, JTR, You & Me, The Only Thing, Jimi Thing » Brick House [partial], #41, It Could Happen » Warehouse, Crash Into Me, You Might Die Trying

Enc: Monsters, Granny, Crush