Revisiting 10 Doobie Brothers Songs From The ’70s

The Doobie Brothers, an iconic American rock group, originated in 1970 with members Tom Johnston (guitar and vocals), John Hartman (drums and percussion), and bassist Greg Murph. The addition of guitarist Jeff Baxter and keyboardist Michael McDonald in 1974 infused soulful elements into their music, leading to their significant success, marked by four Grammy Awards in 1978.

It Keeps You Runnin’
This track, written by Michael McDonald, served as the third single from their sixth studio album, Takin’ It to the Streets, and was later covered by Carly Simon.

Dependin’ on You
Featured on the eighth studio album, Minute by Minute, both the title track and “Depending on You” were released as singles, both achieving top-30 positions.

Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me)
Originally written by the Motown songwriting/production team Holland–Dozier–Holland, the Doobie Brothers popularized it with their recording in 1975.

Minute by Minute
Following the success of ‘What a Fool Believes,’ this title track from their only No. 1 album continued their chart-topping streak.

Takin’ It to the Streets
Michael McDonald’s debut single with the Doobies signaled a significant evolution within the band’s musical style.

China Grove
From the band’s third LP, The Captain and Me, “China Grove” stands out with its memorable guitar riffs.

Listen to the Music
This initial Top 40 hit for the Doobies solidified their image as easygoing ’70s musicians, shedding any lingering ’60s influences.

Black Water
Featured on the 1974 album What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits, this song showcases Patrick Simmons on lead vocals.

Long Train Runnin
One of the band’s signature songs, with remarkable guitar riffs, it became their first to break into the Top 10.

What a Fool Believes
Written by Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins, the Doobie Brothers’ rendition, featuring McDonald on lead vocals, became widely popular on their 1978 album Minute by Minute.