5 Doobie Brothers Songs To Prove They’re Hall Of Fame-Worthy
The Doobie Brothers live - Kingscup20 / Youtube
The Doobie Brothers weren’t always consistent with their sound, as lead creative changes during the first two eras of the band divided their material from classic rock & roll to soul infusion. This stark contrast between the Johnston and McDonald years do not, in any way, discredit the band’s ability to churn out quality music, and instead spreads their catalog to a wide variety of audiences generously. Here are some of the best Doobie Brothers tracks that should’ve placed them in the Rock Hall of Fame a long time ago.
“Black Water” – What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits (1974)
A more pop-oriented orchestration that featured acoustic instruments mostly, even getting a viola to bag a solo. Patrick Simmons does the lead vocals on the track, sticking with the Doobie theme of relaxation and release.
“What A Fool Believes” – Minute By Minute (1978)
Michael McDonald changed the band’s musical landscape drastically with his soul influences brought over from his Steely Dan years, giving it a soft warmth with his keyboards now playing a dominant role in the band. The track became a Grammy magnet and even bagged the top spot upon release.
“China Grove” – The Captain and Me (1973)
A signature track of the Johnston era, “China Grove” is loaded with some of the biggest, dirtiest guitar riffs from the band. Complemented by the thumping cadence of the rhythm section, especially with the keyboards, while sporting catchy chorus for listeners to sing along with.
“Listen To The Music” – Toulouse Street (1972)
The Doobie Brothers didn’t always come down hard when they entered the rock scene, which was apparent with 1972’s “Listen To The Music”. Seemingly calm and composed, Johnston leads the charge in this jovial arrangement.
“Long Train Runnin'” – The Captain and Me (1973)
Coming out of an impromptu jam session that’s been extended to the delight of where the improvs went, “Long Train Runnin'” is reminiscent of the band’s greatest rock n’ roll legacy before being doused by McDonald’s dreamy touch.
