Hollywood legend Julia Roberts dropped in unexpectedly for the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony to honor one of her favorite bands, Dave Matthews Band, on behalf of whom she spoke. She even delivered a glowing and energetic speech to express her praises to the band for their decades of service in the music arena in Cleveland, Ohio.
Openly an avowed Dave Matthews Band fan for years, Roberts was effusive in her praise for the way their music had a way of connecting with the fans at a deep level. “Their music always comes across as some sense of joyous, spontaneous abandon that draws you in,” Roberts said. “Every note, every lyric feels like a personal invitation to live fully, and that’s energy that’s been undeniable from the beginning.”
The Oscar-winning actress, who starred in films such as Pretty Woman and Erin Brockovich, donned a simple black evening gown as she reflected on how the band’s music has touched her life. She said that the songs of the band have accompanied her throughout the high points of both career and personal life. “From the first time I saw them live to every road trip, party, or quiet moment with their music in the background, Dave Matthews Band has been part of my soundtrack,” she said with a smile.
The night was captured by electrifying live performances of the band, not forgetting tracks like “Crash Into Me” and “Ants Marching,” which are fan favorites. Dave Matthews, the lead vocalist of the group, thanked Roberts, whom he addressed as “a dear friend and a fantastic artist.”
The Dave Matthews Band is one band, giving rock, jazz, and funk, and it’s the force behind being in concert with live music improvisations, earning them some loyal fans, hence making them one of the highest-grossing bands globally. Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame speaks to the essence of their place in the world of music.
Of course, there were other notable inductees with performances included in the ceremony, but something about the tribute done by Roberts made it so passionate and sincere. By the time the evening drew to a close, it was plain that fans and fellow musicians alike were united in recognizing the legacy of the Dave Matthews Band-and Julia Roberts was there to lead the applause off.
