In fond memory of Matthew Davis

1976-2003

Don't let the look of bravado fool you. Matt was one of the kindest, warmest, most sensitive people I've ever met. Matt fell in love easily and had no use for insincerity. I remember staying up late at night with him, singing Pixies songs and walking around town. I remember the time he saved me from a bad date. I remember how much he wanted to believe in love and beauty. Matt had wonderful strong hands. I don't let most people hug me, but Matt had a permanent pass.

Goodnight, sweet prince.

Memorial service information at http://www.ten-grand.com

 

From the Iowa City Press Citizen, 8/12/03

Tuesday, August 12, 2003
Iowa City guitarist dies while touring
By Deanna Truman-Cook
Iowa City Press-Citizen

Matthew Davis, vocalist and guitarist of the up and coming Iowa City band Ten Grand, died Sunday.
The 26-year-old passed away at 11 a.m. at BroMenn Regional Medical Center in Normal, Ill. The cause of his death has not yet been determined.

Davis seemed to be in "perfect health," family and friends said. Doctors are looking into the possibility of an allergic reaction.

"This is such a shock to all of us," said Shannin Cartwright, Ten Grand's publicist at Southern Records Inc. "For those of you who had the pleasure of knowing him or of seeing them perform, you know what a gem Matt was.

"He will be eternally remembered and celebrated at Southern Records. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family, Ten Grand and his close friends."

Ten Grand was about to begin touring with bands Sicbay and Giddy Motors.

The band's Tuesday night performance at Gabe's has been cancelled. Gabe's is planning a type of memorial for Davis Tuesday night, a spokeswoman for the bar said Monday afternoon.

Other members of the band include Joel Anderson, guitar and vocals, Zachary Action, bass, and Robert Adams, drums. The group formally known as The Vidablue formed in 1998.

Ten Grand had just returned from a European tour that showcased music from their debut album, "This is the way to Rule."

Don Davis, Matthew Davis's father, said music was his son's passion.

"He said 'I am never going to quit playing,' " Don Davis said. "I think the guitar became the instrument of his heart. ... He was a meteor who shined brightly."