Matchbox Twenty - Push | KARAOKE Version

**Matchbox Twenty - "Push"**

Released in 1997, "Push" is one of the signature songs by the American rock band **Matchbox Twenty**, from their debut album *Yourself or Someone Like You*. It played a pivotal role in propelling the band to mainstream success, becoming a defining track of the late 1990s rock scene. The song's blend of alternative rock, grunge influences, and emotionally charged lyrics resonated with a wide audience, making it an anthem of its time.

**Matchbox Twenty**, led by frontman and primary songwriter **Rob Thomas**, formed in Orlando, Florida, in 1995. Their music, characterized by catchy melodies, introspective lyrics, and rock instrumentation, appealed to fans of both alternative rock and mainstream pop. The band’s original lineup included Rob Thomas on vocals, **Kyle Cook** on lead guitar, **Adam Gaynor** on rhythm guitar, **Brian Yale** on bass, and **Paul Doucette** on drums.

When "Push" was released as the second single from their debut album, it quickly gained attention, not just for its catchy tune, but for its controversial and emotionally raw lyrics. Rob Thomas' gritty and impassioned vocal delivery made the song stand out, and the band’s energetic instrumentation, with a strong guitar-driven sound, emphasized the emotional weight behind the song’s theme.

The song deals with the complexities of a troubled relationship, touching on themes of manipulation, frustration, and emotional pain. The chorus’s refrain—"I wanna push you around / Well, I will, well, I will"—captures the song’s central tension. However, the lyrics stirred some controversy upon release, as some listeners interpreted them as being about physical abuse. Rob Thomas later clarified that the song was more about emotional conflict and the feeling of being manipulated, inspired by personal experiences and tumultuous relationships he had witnessed or been involved in.

Thomas explained that "Push" was intended to explore vulnerability and the way people can sometimes feel powerless in relationships. It wasn’t meant to promote aggression or violence, but rather to express frustration and emotional turmoil. Despite the initial misunderstanding, the song struck a chord with listeners, particularly those who related to the feeling of being emotionally overwhelmed or "pushed around" by life or by others.

Musically, "Push" is driven by a strong guitar riff and a dynamic rhythm section that gives the song an edge while allowing the emotional intensity of the lyrics to take center stage. The combination of Thomas' emotive vocals, the band's polished yet raw sound, and the relatable themes made "Push" a standout track on *Yourself or Someone Like You*. The album itself became a massive commercial success, eventually being certified 12x Platinum by the RIAA, largely fueled by the popularity of singles like "Push" and "3 A.M."

"Push" remains one of Matchbox Twenty's most iconic songs and a staple in their live performances. Its success cemented the band’s place in the alternative rock genre and set the stage for their future success, including Rob Thomas’ later solo ventures. Even decades after its release, "Push" continues to be celebrated for its raw emotion and memorable sound, making it a defining song of the '90s rock era.