10 1970s Photos Remembering The Doobie Brothers, The Band That Gave Us Michael McDonald
Daniel Bonfiglio
Published
03/03/2025
in
ftw
There are no shortage of iconic '70s rock bands, and the Doobie Brothers sometimes find themselves lost in the crowd. With a rotating cast of band members and a decision to disband after the 1970s, it's easy to see why they're under appreciated.
But the Doobie Brothers gave us Michael McDonald and performed in reunion tours as recently as 2019, all while selling over 40 million records across the band's history.
Here are 10 photos remembering the Doobie Brothers, the band that gave us Michael McDonald.
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1. 1970 - Formation
The band adopts the name ‘Doobie Brothers’ in San Jose, CA as a last resort because they couldn’t think of anything better. They perform all over northern CA and become a favorite of the H's Angels. -
2. 1971 - Debut Album
The band ditches the leather jackets and motorcycle image of their fan base on a self-titled debut. Featuring acoustic guitars and country influences, the album sells poorly. -
3. 1972 - Toulouse Street
After some lineup changes, the band records its second album, which charts a firm path towards their sound. It produces the hits “Listen To The Music” and “Jesus Is Alright.” -
4. 1973 - The Captain And Me
With its musical direction established, the band’s third album yields more hits, namely “Long Train Running” and “China Grove.” -
5. 1974 - Skunk Arrives
With Steely Dan retiring from touring, respected guitarist Jeff ‘Skunk’ Baxter joins The Doobie Brothers. -
6. 1975 - Michael McDonald Arrives
With singer Tom Johnston requiring emergency surgery for bleeding ulcers, the band recruits another Steely Dan alum: keyboardist and singer Michael McDonald. -
7. 1976 - Takin' It To The Streets
With McDonald firmly the voice of the band, it moves away from the guitar-driven rock and roll sound gives way to a decidely soft rock feel. The title track and “It Keeps You Runnin'“ are both hits. -
8. 1978 - Minute by Minute
The band’s eighth album spends five weeks atop the charts. “What A Fool Believes” the Michael McDonald song penned with Kenny Loggins is a #1 hit. The album is nominated for a Grammy Award. -
9. 1978 - What’s Happening!!
The band makes not one, but inexplicably TWO appearances on the ABC sitcom hit, What’s Happening!! as themselves. -
10. 1979 - SNL And Dissolution
The success and pressuress of releasing eight albums in eight years plus nonstop touring gets to the band. The Doobies perform on Saturday Night Live on January 27, 1979 marks the final appearance of the 1970’s Doobie lineup.
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Replay - 10 1970s Photos Remembering The Doobie Brothers, The Band That Gave Us Michael McDonald
1970 - Formation
The band adopts the name ‘Doobie Brothers’ in San Jose, CA as a last resort because they couldn’t think of anything better. They perform all over northern CA and become a favorite of the H's Angels.
The band adopts the name ‘Doobie Brothers’ in San Jose, CA as a last resort because they couldn’t think of anything better. They perform all over northern CA and become a favorite of the H's Angels.
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