Maroon 5 has been one of the most successful recording and touring acts of the 21st century with over 27 million albums sold and over 29 BILLION streams on Spotify alone. The band has been at the top of the charts since their debut album “Songs About Jane” dropped in 2003 and the hits keep coming.
It’s a sound that’s hard to duplicate but Mentor will be treated to a high-energy homage as Dallas-based Animals brings their music to life at the Amp on July 22nd.
We reached out to front man David Gates to learn a little more about the band and what inspires them to do what they do.
What inspired you to start Animals?
Music is a huge part of my life and has become how I make a living so creating a tribute band made a lot of sense as a new avenue to explore my creativity and passion with great friends and amazing musicians. I grew up listening to and loving Maroon 5. They’ve written so many awesome, chart topping hits over the past quarter-century that almost everybody will recognize when they hear them in our show. Mario and I had the idea initially in 2022 and it’s been a lot of fun putting it together. They’re a perfect band for a tribute if you can nail it and we believe we nail it.
How long has your band been together?
The band has been together since early 2023. We’ve gone through some changes since the beginning, but we’ve found our groove and the group of guys that really make it something special.
What’s your favorite onstage moment?
We have so much fun when we play these shows, it’s hard to choose! We played a pretty epic show in the rain last year in Louisiana which was cool. Having the crowd rush up and join us on stage for the finale of our show in La Porte, Indiana was amazing as well. I have a feeling Mentor Rocks is gonna join that list!
What’s your favorite Maroon 5 song to perform?
I love playing “Misery”! I have a specific memory of hearing it for the first time as a kid and loving it so it’s very cool to be able to play it now. Another great pick on our setlist is “If I Never See Your Face Again” – a lesser known and underrated song for sure….I think the whole band cuts loose a bit on that tune.
What are you looking forward to at Mentor Rocks and what can fans expect?
It’ll be our first time being a part of Mentor Rocks which is very exciting! We’re stoked to get out there with everybody and have an amazing night with the crowd. Fans can expect amazing musicianship, energy, fun, nostalgia, and songs you love that you didn’t even know were Maroon 5. Overall, they can expect a fantastic show.
Are you involved in any other musical projects?
Everyone in the band has multiple things going on at a time, but we all play a lot of music. I play live music full time in Dallas in other bands, solo, duo, etc, as well as making my own original music under my name (David Gates), so it’s a collection of things for sure, but I am thrilled to call music my profession!
Any other message for the fans?
We can’t wait to see you at Mentor Rocks on July 22nd! Animals is gonna bring it! 🔥
For more information on this show as well as other Mentor Rocks performances, visit www.mentorrocks.info.