Southern Breeze 2008 Spring Issue

we’re an american story by TABATHA HUNTER band T here is no question about it, 3 Doors Down rocks. The big name rock band from small town Mississippi has sold over 7 million records to become one of the most successful bands in recent history. Chances are, if you listened to the radio at all in 2000, you heard their break-out hit, “Kryptonite,” and in 2003, you sang along with the group’s mega-hit, “When I’m Gone” which was the most played song that year. The band’s journey started out humbly enough when singer Brad Arnold and guitarist Matt Roberts began playing T-ball together in the city that no one can pronounce until they are taught—Escatawpa. The two were inseparable growing up, says Darrell Roberts, Matt’s proud father. They did everything together, including starting a band when they were in high school. “Matt has always been a natural leader, real staunch, and when he says he is going to do something, he does it,” says Darrell. So it came as no surprise to him when his son’s rock band became as successful as it is. Growing up on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast has influenced everything 3 Doors Down has accomplished. The salt water of the Gulf, as they say, must run in their veins. “Life in Mississippi is different than anywhere else. It is definitely a unique place to grow up and I am very, very thankful that I grew up here,” says Brad. “It will always be my home. [Mississippi] has always influenced me in that aspect, along with the music that is played down here.” Some of the band’s influences include legendary Southern rockers Lynyrd Skynyrd and .38 Special. “You know the South has always had good musicians and some of the greatest are from Mississippi and we’re proud to be from here too,” says Brad, whose hobbies are pure Mississippi country boy—riding four wheelers and fishing. Another part of growing up on the Gulf Coast is knowing that family comes first and it always has for the members of 3 Doors Down. “My family is my backbone and I could not stand without them,” Brad says. “They have always been there for me and I come from a big family. I love the family that I am from and I think that my mom and dad did a real good job raising all my brothers and sisters.” Brad is the youngest of seven children. With all of its commercial success, 3 Doors Down has somehow managed to remain humble and down to earth. They still introduce themselves and shake hands with anyone they meet. They always seem to have a minute for anyone Spring 2008 49

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Southern Breeze 2008 Spring Issue

Editor's Letter Contributor Gumbo Seen & Heard Coastal Calendar Storefronts - Keepin' it Reel Sweet Dreams - Grand Hotel Art of Living - Marking Time Fixtures - A Fitting End Our Backyard - Reasonable Drought Make Yourself at Home - Light up Your Life The Southern Breeze Hot List Unexpected Destin-ation Visual Zydeco We're an American Band The Good Life From Halter Tops to Maternity Tops Reader Services Cheers - Lazy Libations Dish - Mississippi Yearning Chef's Table - Welcome to The Doll House Let's Eat - Sunrise Sensations Last Bite

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