"Busted Stuff," released by the Dave Matthews Band on July 16, 2002, emerged from a unique and fan-driven chapter in the band's history.
The album's story begins with a collection of unreleased recordings known as "The Lillywhite Sessions." In 2000, the band worked with producer Steve Lillywhite on a dark and somber set of songs. However, the band and their label decided to shelve the project. This led to the creation of the more pop-oriented album "Everyday" in 2001.
Before "Busted Stuff" was officially released, the "Lillywhite Sessions" were leaked online and quickly became a fan favorite. The grassroots demand for this material was so strong that the band decided to re-record many of the songs, along with two new tracks. The result was "Busted Stuff," which was seen by many as a return to the band's signature jazz-infused rock sound.
The album was a commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard charts. It was praised for its more organic and complex sound, which contrasted with the polished production of "Everyday." The story of "Busted Stuff" is a testament to the band's dedicated fanbase and their influence on the band's creative decisions.