Rob Thomas first made a major impact on the music scene with the first hit album by his band Matchbox Twenty in 1997. A collaboration with the classic Latin rock band Santana and a solo album in 2005 have proven Thomas' recording artists stretch beyond the confines of Matchbox Twenty.
- Yourself Or Someone Like You - Matchbox Twenty (1996) - It took several months, but Matchbox Twenty's first album finally succeeded, peaking at #5 on the album chart in 1997. The group's version of 90's alt-rock, with more hooks and less angst, eventually sold about 12 million copies. "3 A.M.," "Push," and "Back 2 Good" are 3 of the key hits.
- "Smooth" - Santana Featuring Rob Thomas (1999) - This collaboration from Santana's Supernatural album revitalized the Latin rock group's career commercially and made Thomas into a recognizable superstar. Rob Thomas' vocals match the sexy, midtempo rocking atmosphere perfectly. The single topped the pop singles chart for 12 weeks and spent an amazing 40 weeks in the top 10. Billboard magazine called it the most successful single on the charts in the entire rock era.
- Mad Season - Matchbox Twenty (2000) - The group added more instruments into the mix, and Rob Thomas' songs and vocals just got better. The album reached #3 on the chart and contained the band's first #1 pop single "Bent." "If You're Gone" also reached the top 5.
- More Than You Think You Are - Matchbox Twenty (2002) - The band rocked harder but some fans and critics were less impressed. Peaking only at #6, the album included only one top 10 hit single, "Unwell."
- ...Something To Be - Rob Thomas (2005) - Matchbox Twenty decided to take a break and Rob Thomas used the time to record his first solo album. The lead off single "Lonely No More" glided into the top 10 of the pop singles chart and the album debuted at #1, something no Matchbox Twenty albums have accomplished. Rob Thomas is the first male member of a successful group to achieve a #1 solo and group album while an active member of that group.
