Dave Matthews has spoken with Rolling Stone magazine about his decision to endorse Democratic candidate Barack Obama for president in 2008. 

Matthews emailed one million fans with his decision on February 4th and explained why he has gotten behind the Illinois senator, saying, "It's a quality he has that seems to elevate the people around him...The most important qualification a candidate can possess is being able to inspire people to want to do things for the country. The great presidential speeches by people like Kennedy or Lincoln -- what made them great were their words, and the fact that they moved mountains with their words."

Matthews brushed off the argument that Obama lacks experience, saying, "I don't want someone who's experienced in the present-day arena of politics -- it's hopelessly failed this country."

Born in South Africa during apartheid, Matthews has seen racism up close and he said it has had an effect on his support for Obama. He explained, "Growing up as a white South African, I learned the absurdity of racism and the ugliness of bigotry. I get this sense of possibility with Obama that reminds me of when I was younger, when Nelson Mandela was finally out of prison."

Matthews added that he's not worried about a backlash from fans who don't share his views, saying, "Musicians, although maybe some don't believe it, are also citizens. We all have the right to say what we think and use whatever power we have to say it, just like politicians use whatever power they have."

The Dave Matthews Band is currently working on a new album and kicks off a major summer tour next month.