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Key Information

David Kyle Cook (born August 29, 1975) is an American musician best known as a member of the band Matchbox Twenty, serving as the lead guitarist, banjo player, backing and occasional lead vocalist.

Career

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Matchbox Twenty

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Kyle Cook joined Matchbox Twenty on lead guitar right as the band's other members transitioned from their previous work as Tabitha's Secret, in 1995. He has remained a stable member of the band to this day. Apart from playing guitar, he also sings backing vocals. He plays piano on the song "Hand Me Down" from the album More Than You Think You Are and sings lead vocals on the track "The Way" from North.[citation needed]

In an Instagram post from April 9, 2016, Cook announced his departure from Matchbox Twenty, citing "deterioration of communication, disagreements on when, where and how we tour and a general breakdown of democracy within the group."[1] However, less than a year later on March 27, 2017, Cook announced Matchbox Twenty's North American co-headlining summer tour with Counting Crows, and that his side project Rivers and Rust would be the opening act.[2] Regarding Cook's status in the band, Matchbox Twenty member Paul Doucette replied, "Kyle is back!" in response to a fan's question on Twitter.[3]

The New Left

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After releasing their third album, More Than You Think You Are, in 2002, and spending the next year touring the globe, the members of Matchbox Twenty began to work on separate musical projects. Guitarist Cook reconnected with his former bandmates—drummer Brett Borges and bassist John Kibler. The three had met during high school in rural Indiana. Under the name Downpour, the group had played proms and parties, but had parted ways once graduation came around. After Cook became part of Matchbox Twenty, the trio had kept in touch and recorded demos during Cook's time off from touring. Adopting the name the New Left, they added guitarist and singer-songwriter Eamon Ryland.

The group's only release was the EP Let Go, released in 2004 during Cook's hiatus from Matchbox Twenty. It was recorded at Cook's studio in Orlando, Florida, and it includes six original blues-tinged rock tracks.

Solo work and other projects

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Cook contributed to Mick Jagger's song "Visions of Paradise" on the English rocker's 2001 record Goddess in the Doorway, and he played guitar on Rob Thomas' 2006 single "...Something to Be".

He co-wrote, performed, and produced several songs on John Waite's 2011 album Rough & Tumble, and he co-wrote Love and Theft's 2013 single "If You Ever Get Lonely".

Cook released his debut solo album, Wolves, on October 12, 2018.[4]

Personal life

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Cook and his ex-wife, Sabrina, have two daughters, Makenzie (February 23, 1999) and Ava (March 28, 2002).[5]

References

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Kyle Cook

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David Kyle Cook (born August 29, 1975) is an American musician best known as the lead guitarist, banjo player, and backing and occasional lead vocalist of the rock band Matchbox Twenty.[1][2] Born in Frankfort, Indiana, Cook graduated from Frankfort High School before relocating to Orlando, Florida, where he joined Matchbox Twenty in the mid-1990s as the band formed from the ashes of earlier local groups like Tabitha's Secret.[3] Over nearly three decades with the band, Cook has contributed significantly to their sound, co-writing tracks and shaping the instrumental arrangements on albums including their debut Yourself or Someone Like You (1996), which featured hits like "Push" and "3AM," as well as later releases such as North (2012) and Where the Light Goes (2023).[4][5] Beyond Matchbox Twenty, Cook has pursued solo endeavors and side projects, including managing the rock band The New Left, which he co-founded in high school,[6] and forming the duo Rivers and Rust with vocalist Sheila Marshall.[7] His debut solo album, Wolves (2018), co-produced with Lincoln Parish and released via his own Tennessee Recording Company label, explores themes of personal turmoil, including his divorce, through a mix of pop-rock and heavier, orchestral elements.[7] Cook briefly left Matchbox Twenty in 2016 amid personal challenges but rejoined the following year, continuing to tour and record with the group while maintaining an active solo career.[7]

Early life

Upbringing

David Kyle Cook was born on August 29, 1975, in Frankfort, Indiana.[8] Cook grew up in the small town of Frankfort, a rural community in central Indiana known for its agricultural roots and close-knit environment.[7] His early years were shaped by this Midwestern setting, which provided a modest, isolated backdrop far removed from the music industry hubs he would later enter.[9] He attended Frankfort High School, graduating in 1994 as part of the Class of Hot Dogs, the school's mascot-themed alumni group.[10] During his pre-fame years, Cook held typical entry-level jobs, including a stint working for United Parcel Service (UPS), reflecting the everyday challenges of young adulthood in a working-class town.[6] After high school, Cook moved to Atlanta, Georgia, at age 19 to begin formal musical training.[11]

Musical beginnings

Cook's initial foray into music occurred during his childhood in Frankfort, Indiana, where he received five years of classical violin training starting in junior high school. This early exposure to classical techniques laid a foundational discipline in his musical development, though he later transitioned away from the instrument.[12][9] During high school, Cook switched to guitar, acquiring his first instrument—an acoustic model from his stepfather—and incorporating it into the school orchestra while drawing inspiration from rock acts like Guns N' Roses. He joined the local covers band Downpour, performing at events such as proms and parties alongside future collaborators Chris Borges on bass and Matt Kibler on drums, which allowed him to hone his skills in a group setting focused on classic rock repertoire.[9][13] Following his high school graduation, Cook relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to enroll at the Atlanta Institute of Music, discovered through an advertisement in Guitar World magazine. There, he studied guitar, musicianship, and vocals, gaining exposure to a broad array of musical styles through coursework and coffeehouse performances, though he has described the experience as providing limited formal insight into his craft. His early influences, drawn from classic rock bands such as Bad Company and The Beatles, profoundly shaped his guitar style, emphasizing melodic phrasing and tasteful solos over technical flash.[9][11][14]

Career

Matchbox Twenty

Kyle Cook joined Matchbox Twenty as an original member and lead guitarist in 1995, shortly after the band formed in Orlando, Florida, by vocalist Rob Thomas, bassist Brian Yale, and drummer Paul Doucette.[15][16] In addition to his primary role on lead guitar, Cook contributes banjo parts and backing vocals, adding distinctive textures to the band's pop-rock sound.[16] His instrumental riffs became integral to early hits like "Real World" from the debut album.[4] Cook played a key role in the band's five studio albums, providing guitar arrangements, solos, and co-writing contributions that shaped their commercial trajectory. The debut, Yourself or Someone Like You (1996), achieved diamond certification (12x platinum) and propelled Matchbox Twenty to global success with singles like "Push" and "3 A.M.," where Cook's guitar work underscored the album's raw energy.[5] Follow-up Mad Season (2000, 4x platinum) featured his prominent solos and backing vocals, including on tracks like "Bent," while he contributed to the live album Mad Season by Matchbox Twenty (2001), capturing performances from the supporting tour.[5] On More Than You Think You Are (2002, 2x platinum), Cook co-wrote "How Far We've Come," blending his melodic guitar lines with the band's introspective themes.[17] The hiatus from 2004 to 2011 saw Cook's return for North (2012, gold-certified, #1 on Billboard 200), where he co-wrote "She's So Mean" and sang lead on "The Way," showcasing his vocal range in live settings.[5] Most recently, on Where the Light Goes (2023), Cook co-produced alongside bandmates and sparked the album's development, integrating banjo and guitar innovations into songs like "Don't Get Me Wrong."[18][17] Matchbox Twenty's breakthrough came with extensive touring and awards recognition, including multiple Billboard Music Awards and Grammy nominations, where Cook's dynamic guitar solos—often highlighted in live renditions of "Unwell" and "Bright Lights"—became a fan favorite for their emotional depth and technical flair.[19] The band sold over 30 million albums worldwide, with Cook's banjo integrations adding folk-rock elements to their arena-filling performances across global tours.[5] In April 2016, Cook temporarily departed amid personal challenges involving communication breakdowns within the band.[7] He rejoined in 2017 for a co-headlining tour with Counting Crows, reaffirming his commitment.[20] Cook continued as a core member through the Slow Dream Tour (2023–2024), co-headlining with Goo Goo Dolls and delivering standout guitar and banjo moments in sets spanning their catalog.[21] As of 2025, reflecting on the band's 30th anniversary since formation, Cook has emphasized the enduring fan connection and his instrumental evolution in interviews.[22]

The New Left

During Matchbox Twenty's hiatus following the release of their 2002 album More Than You Think You Are, guitarist Kyle Cook reunited with high school friends to form the alternative rock band The New Left in 2004. The group originated from Cook's teenage years in Indiana, where he, bassist John Kibler, and drummer Brett Borges had previously played together in the mostly covers band Downpour, performing at local proms and parties. Joining them were guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Eamon Ryland on guitar, mandolin, and steel guitar, as well as keyboardist Joshua Chiet.[23][13] The New Left's sound drew from 1970s rock influences such as Neil Young and Tom Petty, reflecting the covers repertoire from Cook's high school days, while incorporating alternative rock elements suited to Cook's evolving style. Cook served as the band's lead guitarist and co-writer, contributing to the songwriting process alongside his performance duties. The band self-released their debut EP Let Go on October 29, 2004, a six-track project recorded at Cook's Swamptone studio in Orlando, Florida; notable tracks included "Lose Your Head" and the title song "Let Go."[23][24] The New Left toured in support of the EP, including shows in Central Florida, but the project remained short-lived as Cook shifted focus back to Matchbox Twenty's reunion and subsequent activities around 2005–2006. In the years following, Cook continued to manage the band while pursuing other endeavors.[23][6]

Solo work and other projects

Cook released his debut solo album, Wolves, on October 12, 2018, through his own label, The Tennessee Recording Company. As of September 2025, this music has been removed from streaming platforms.[25] The album's creation spanned the 2016–2018 period, during which Cook drew inspiration from the personal upheaval of his divorce, channeling themes of heartbreak and healing into cathartic tracks like the title song "Wolves."[7][26] To promote the record, Cook embarked on a solo tour in 2019, performing selections from Wolves alongside covers and Matchbox Twenty material at venues including The Wayfarer in Costa Mesa, California, on April 17 and Lola's Room in Portland, Oregon, on April 25.[27][28] A vinyl edition of Wolves followed later that year, capitalizing on renewed interest in the format.[29] In 2017, Cook formed the side project Rivers and Rust, a collective blending roots rock, soul, and Americana with an emphasis on male-female vocal interplay.[30] The group released the single "What a Waste" featuring vocalist Maye in January 2021, marking their first output in three years. As of September 2025, this music has been removed from streaming platforms.[25] Beyond these endeavors, Cook has pursued production work and guest appearances, including co-producing and co-writing Jaden Hamilton's 2024 single "Johnny McGee" and sharing stages with singer-songwriter Paul McDonald during his 2019 solo outings.[9] In 2025, Cook joined John Waite for performances on his solo tour dates.[31] These independent projects emerged during a hiatus from Matchbox Twenty, allowing Cook to explore personal artistic expressions.[7]

Personal life

Marriage and divorce

Cook married Sabrina in July 1999. Their marriage lasted 17 years.[7] The divorce was finalized around 2016–2017, coinciding with a hiatus in Matchbox Twenty's activities following their 2012 album North and the creation of Cook's debut solo album Wolves.[3] Cook has described this period as emotionally challenging, marked by personal turmoil that tested his resilience.[3] The dissolution significantly impacted Cook's career, leading to his temporary departure from Matchbox Twenty in April 2016 amid reported communication breakdowns within the band; he rejoined the group in 2017 for a co-headlining tour with Counting Crows.[7] Throughout the separation, music provided a therapeutic outlet, with Cook noting that the process of songwriting helped him navigate the emotional strain.[3] This experience briefly influenced the introspective themes in his solo album Wolves.[3]

Family

Kyle Cook is the father of two daughters, Mackenzie and Ava, from his previous marriage to Sabrina.[6] The divorce, finalized around 2017, marked a significant transition in his family life, after which Cook prioritized spending time with his daughters, temporarily setting aside aspects of his music career to support them through the change.[7][3] Cook resides in Nashville, Tennessee.[32] In subsequent years, he has occasionally shared insights into fatherhood via interviews, describing the challenges of co-parenting while managing his commitments to Matchbox Twenty's tours and solo projects.[7]

References

  1. Musicians born on August 29 - Music History Events November 3
  2. https://www.abilenebarandlounge.com/calendar/2018/3/15/kyle-cook
  3. Matchbox Twenty guitarist Kyle Cook returns to Indiana for Vogue ...
  4. Matchbox 20 and then some… with Kyle Cook - Thinkin' & Drinkin'
  5. About - Matchbox Twenty
  6. Kyle Cook - Biography - IMDb
  7. Kyle Cook runs with 'Wolves' in Bend | The Bulletin
  8. Nettwerk One Music Signs Matchbox 20's Kyle Cook - MusicRow.com
  9. Matchbox 20 Biography - InfoPlease
  10. Matchbox 20 guitarist Kyle Cook (Full Band) + special guest Paul ...
  11. Frankfort Hot Dogs Alumni Hall of Fame Inducts First Class
  12. Kyle Cook (of Matchbox Twenty) - Supreme Entertainment Artists
  13. Indiana Music Makers - Kyle Cook (Matchbox Twenty) - Google Sites
  14. The New Left to release 'Let Go' October 29; Tour to kick off on ...
  15. Matchbox Twenty's Kyle Cook picks 10 essential guitar albums
  16. Matchbox Twenty: How '3AM' Became Their Breakout Hit
  17. Matchbox Twenty Biography, Discography, Chart History
  18. MATCHBOX TWENTY - M Music & Musicians Magazine
  19. Matchbox Twenty Talks Songwriting Process Behind Their ...
  20. Q&A with Matchbox Twenty - Music Connection Magazine
  21. Matchbox Twenty Returns With 'Where the Light Goes' Album - Variety
  22. Staying In Balance: Matchbox 20's Sonic Evolution Unfolds On The ...
  23. 30 Years of Matchbox Twenty: Part one - Facebook
  24. NEW LEFT FEELS JUST RIGHT TO HIM - Orlando Sentinel
  25. Matchbox Twenty Guitarist Goes Solo - Billboard
  26. Kyle Cook - Wolves (Official Video) - YouTube
  27. Kyle Cook // Akron, OH // 10.13.2018 - Stitched Sound
  28. Kyle Cook Setlist at The Wayfarer, Costa Mesa
  29. Kyle Cook - “Wolves” - April 25, 2019 - Portland, OR - Lola's Room
  30. https://www.discogs.com/release/13075037-Kyle-Cook-Wolves
  31. Rivers and Rust
  32. ‎Rivers and Rust - Apple Music
  33. Matchbox Twenty's Rob Thomas on solo album and tour, coming to ...
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