The Doobie Brothers are an American rock band that formed in 1970 in San Jose, California. Originally a quartet featuring Tom Johnston, Patrick Simmons, Dave Shogren, and John Hartman, the band rose to fame with hits like “Listen to the Music,” “China Grove,” “Black Water,” and “Long Train Runnin’.” Over the decades, The Doobie Brothers have seen various line-up changes but have maintained popularity as a touring act. Now in their 50s, the current incarnation of The Doobie Brothers with Simmons and Johnston continues to draw crowds to their energetic live shows playing their collection of blues-rock classics. But how good are The Doobie Brothers live these days? Let’s take a look at factors like the bands’ current members, setlists, musicianship, showmanship, and fan reception to evaluate if the veteran rockers still deliver an enjoyable concert experience for audiences in 2023.
Current Band Members
The Doobie Brothers today consist of original members Tom Johnston and Patrick Simmons on guitar and vocals alongside longtime veterans like drummer Ed Toth, keyboardist Bill Payne, bassist John Cowan, and multi-instrumentalist Marc Russo. While lead singer and guitarist Michael McDonald was a key member of the band in the late 70s and early 80s during their more R&B-tinged period, he tours and records as a solo act today. Still, the core of Johnston, Simmons, and additional players have been stable for years and continue to ably recreate the band’s diverse catalog live. Having two original members at the helm lends authenticity while the talented backing musicians fill out The Doobie Brothers’ renowned multi-part vocal harmonies and melodic, guitar-driven rock.
Setlists Draw from Breadth of Catalog
In recent tours, The Doobie Brothers have offered audiences a diverse selection of songs spanning their 50+ year career. While they revisit smashes like “Long Train Runnin'” and “China Grove,” deep cuts like “South City Midnight Lady” and “Eyes of Silver” represent early albums. They also showcase later Michael McDonald-sung hits like “What a Fool Believes” and “Takin’ it to the Streets” via Simmons and Johnston’s soulful vocals and bluesy piano playing. For long-time fans, it’s a trip through nostalgia while casual listeners enjoy the range of styles and eras covered in a single show. With the band’s large catalog to choose from, the setlists vary night to night keeping the concerts fresh.
Strong Musicianship Across Decades of Experience
While they may have aged, The Doobie Brothers’ instrumental and vocal chops remain strong decades into their career. Their long history of writing, recording, and performing roots rock, country rock, and blue-eyed soul has only polished their skills as live players. In reviews of recent shows, critics praise the tight musicianship, Tom Johnston’s gritty and earnest voice, Patrick Simmons’ fingerpicked guitar skills, and the water-tight rhythm section. Simmons and Johnston’s acoustic guitar work on “Black Water” and “Stringbreaker” offer laidback highlights. The band seamlessly shifts gears into an energetic finale of “China Grove” and “Listen to the Music” showing off funky licks and boisterous riffs. The Doobie Brothers still have the technical musical ability to captivate fans even if they’re not as spry as their youthful heyday.
Vibrant Stage Show Brings the Party
Beyond sheer ability, The Doobie Brothers bring an enthusiastic energy and vibrant stage presence to their shows. Clad in matching black outfits and sunglasses, the band members rock synchronised dance steps as they tear through hits. Simmons and Johnston enthusiastically work the stage and engage with the audience between songs with stories and quips. Behind them, two video walls play archival footage, album covers, and photos from across the band’s career. The songs blend together in a non-stop medley keeping the crowd on its feet. Lighting shifts through rainbow hues and strobes adding to the party atmosphere. For the poignant ballad “Black Water” the stage glows with soft blue light as lighters flicker in the audience. An explosive lights show erupts once the band kicks back into high-gear for an encore of “China Grove.” The Doobie Brothers’ dynamic concert production enhances the music for an immersive, entertaining experience.
Enthusiastic Fan Response
Ultimately, The Doobie Brothers’ touring success lies in their ability to keep fans coming back. Recent reviews from long-time classic rock devotees to younger listeners new to the band are glowing. Fans across generations sing along word-for-word, dance in aisles, and call raucously for encores. While some note the absence of Michael McDonald’s soulful voice on later hits, others are thrilled to hear straight-ahead rocking live versions without backing tracks. Venues continue to sell-out amphitheatres and arenas coast-to-coast, proving The Doobie Brothers can still draw a crowd. Seeing grinning baby boomers reliving their youth next to Gen Xers and millennials discovering the music for the first time, it’s clear The Doobie Brothers appeal spans generations. The band’s feel-good rock and roll still brings joy to thousands night after night.
Conclusion
50 years since they first formed, The Doobie Brothers prove they can still put on an entertaining concert with great music. Their gigs feature all the band’s classic hits delivered with impressive musicianship and an energetic stage show. The crowds’ enthusiastic singalongs and dancing show veteran groups like The Doobie Brothers remain beloved. With original members Tom Johnston and Patrick Simmons anchoring the line-up alongside top-notch side players, the band consistently delights fans. The Doobie Brothers’ 2023 tour demonstrates these Rock and Roll Hall of Famers have not lost their ability to throw an enjoyable concert party. So if you get a chance to see The Doobie Brothers live today, don’t hesitate to relive the classic rock magic.