Mike was lead singer of the Doobies for years. He went solo after that. He’s one of the most soulful singers- check him out with Patti LaBelle on” On My Own”. ❤ What A Fool Believes, This is It with Kenny Loggins, Takin It to the Streets- all timeless MM classics! Mike is from Ferguson , MO! He’s one of our national treasures. Also- Mike and James Ingram on “ Yah Mo B There”! ❤❤❤❤
And, the other lead singer from Doobie brothers had a few bangers as well, Listen to the Music, Long Train Running, and Black Water to name a few. I co-sign everything @TheDivayenta said and agree with @quarterfriedwithdirtyrice8108. I love these reaction Britt, keep going and investigate on the ones you really liked.
I would say “Taken it to the Street”, “Minute by Minute”, and “What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers. Micheal MacDonald sings the lead. He also has a solo song called “Sweet Freedom”.
Spot on Anita, if she has reacted the older Doobie Brothers she probably heard him before he went out on his own...back in the day of the Doobie Brothers, Chicago, and War.
When Michael says, "I'd like to join the club and say it's a pleasure to be up here with the best record producer ever," he's referring to Chet Atkins, who plays the electric acoustic guitar toward the end of the song. Chet was a legendary guitarist and record producer for RCA Victor. The other guitarist on the full electric guitar is Mark Knopfler. The singers are David Pack, the legendary Everly Brothers, and the female is country legend, Emmylou Harris. This was recorded at a "Tribute to Chet Atkins" concert at Nashville's Vanderbilt University back in 1987.
Man, I thought I was seeing things. This must be some real shindig for that lineup. I didn't think it was possible I was seeing both those guys. Chet was terrin UP that nylon.
Michael was in much demand after he left the Doobies and the fact that he repeatedly sang for Steely Dan is amazing - they were reputedly very demanding on the musicians that worked for them and only retained the very best (and accordingly produced the most amazing music, still popular and much admired today).
@richardlovell4713 if you weren't pretty much a virtuoso on your instrument, Steely Dan didn't have much time for you after they stopped being a real bad.
That last smile and nod was for Chet Atkins and Mark Knopfler. They are both legends and getting to jam with them on one of his songs must have felt awesome!
Oh yeah, one of our greatest "blue-eyed soul" singers. Just a beautiful sound and yes the man is so handsome. He has so many timeless classics. Bobby Caldwell was another from the 70s. Most shocking known song was his hit , "What you wont do for Love" They can make u melt grl. Thanx so much, stay groovy, Peace
Inductee in the Rock and Roll HOF. He was a member of The Doobie Bros and also Steely Dan. Dude is highly acclaimed and respected in the music industry. I think he's won like 5 or 6 Grammy's. Definitely one of the industry's heavyweights. Cool fun fact: this song was sampled in Nate Dog and Warren G's tune Regulate.
@@greggladson8127there's a remix where they incorporate MM sing and the instrumental is more similar to the original too. Think it's called the Death Row remix. I believe it was in a Death Row greatest hits album and is pretty hard to find.
The deep and raspy vocals of a legend. I found it amazing how deep his voice was yet he could propel it, amazing. Oh and the style is called Blue eyed soul, lovin' some MD thanks for the upload.
The lead female backup singer is Emmylou Harris in this video. I didn't know she sang with him. She's got an amazing voice and career that includes songs with Dolly Parton, and many other greats. Also, in the early 90s, this baseline was sampled in the song "Regulate" or "Regulators" by I think it was Warren G.
Yeah, I think RUclipsrs who do these reaction videos really should stick with the original studio recordings. I came to see her initial reaction to hearing the intro; but she never caught on right away about this song being sampled like others reactors have. Lyrics are usually easier to hear on studio versions too. But I'm still happy that Michael is invited to the BBQ anyway, lol.
I love seeing ppl smile when they hear a good song! This song it definitely a good one. He is not using any particular style while singing but he has a baritone voice. Maybe that what you are asking? And that dance you did? Love it!
Michael McDonald has sung with so many artists and bands in both lead and background vocals. He write songs. He’s the quintessential all around musician. He’s one of the most recognizable voices of our time.
You just discovered an amazing artist keep listening you won't regret it!!! He was everywhere in the 80's collaborating with so many artist's and still is....he's from St Louis where he grew up....the whole family are musically inclined. He's won many grammies including several for this song...enjoy😊
MM wrote a lot of hits in the 70s and 80s for himself and for and with other artists like Toto, Patti Labelle, Kenny Loggins, and as a member of the Doobie Brothers, a truly remarkable talent.
One of my favorite songs of all time. Check out his duet song with James Ingram called "Yah mo' be there". Britt needs her own talk show on television. The charm.. the cuteness.. the charisma.. the intelligence and the beauty.. would be great on Television.
I remember watching this when it came out in 1987. It’s from the Cinemax Session: Chet Atkins. Chet is a legendary guitar player who not only influenced Elvis’ early guitarist, Scotty Moore, but also the Beatles. Chet also produced several Elvis songs for RCA.
Michael and I were born three months apart in the same year. He was born in St. Louis, MO and I went to basic in Fort Leonard Wood, MO and my first leave I went into St. Louis but by then he was in L.A. We are both older now, but the music never dies. I used to sing his stuff back then. Did a lot of Jim Morrison of the group "The Doors." I can no longer hit those high notes. The older guys and women who still turn it out are so blessed. God Bless Britt. This is your boy from Tennessee. Peace!
That man can SANG!!! Blue-eyed soul gets me every single time. Now... talking about this special brand of soul, might we return to George Michael because I'm not sure he's been officially inducted. I'm going to just give you my faves. If you need to do it live, check if it's in his Unplugged performance. A Different Corner(my personal fave song, ever, by any artist) Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me with Elton John Jesus To A Child: (written about his partner that died from AIDS related complications, his entire album, Older, is dedicated to him) There are 2 versions of this song. One is the full version which clocks in at 6:48. The shorter radio edit comes in at 4:44. If you do pick, I'm begging please overlook 48 seconds? Fast Love: Different side of the same coin as song above. These are both about his lost love, Anselmo. Shows two of the ways grief can make you act or react. Freedom 90 (Video is STUNNING! TOP models of 90's featured. It's an autobiographical song, watch his video for Faith first and at least one Wham! video to put the lyrics into better context) Monkey Praying For Time Somebody To Love (from the Freddie Mercury tribute concert. He KILLED it. ) Outside (Personally love this one just for the sheer balls shown by making a song about his own arrest) Careless Whisper aka That sexy baby making sax solo song. White Light (Which to be honest, since his death, breaks my heart every single time, as does Last Christmas because he died on Christmas 2016) Waiting For That Day Older Heal The Pain As with Mary J Blige. Stevie Wonder cover. I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me) his duet with Aretha Franklin. (He was a powerful duet partner. He knew how to let the others shine, from Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, he actually covered Stevie' work extensively, either in concert live or recorded for albums, Paul McCartney, the list is impressive.)
One of my fave male artists ever. I've seen him a couple times live and he's incredible. His voice just does it for me. He and Patti sang together and talk about a duo! Look up On My Own Patti Labelle and Michael McDonald.
"Sweet Freedom" is one of Michael McDonald's most infectious grooves, IMO, and highly underrated. I don't know that it'll land him in the PDC. It's not really that type of song, but it's definitely worth a listen!
BTW. the "greatest producer" Michael referred to at the beginning was Chet Atkins, the older gentleman on the acoustic guitar sharing a guitar solo near the end of the tune. And as some mention below, McDonald at one time joined the Doobie Brothers for some of their biggest hits like: What a Fool Believes. You might also like a duet of On My Own that he did with Patti LaBelle.
Huge, huge celebrated star. He was on the radio so much that DJs and ppl alike would joke of how tired they got listening to him (and the Bee Gees too so iconic). Smooth groove. 💜🎵
Love seeing people discover Michael McDonald! As others stated he was(my favorite) Doobie Brother. Amazing live, saw him @ Pier 17 in 2018, always the best bands. People were dancing in the aisles.
The studio version is so iconic, this live version is tough for a first introduction. Nevertheless, Mike's voice is legendary. Potential PDC president! Obviously "What A Fool Believes", "Minute By Minute", "Takin it to the Streets" and "It Keeps You Runnin". He also did a couple Motown records that are fire!
You nailed it...... Michael's voice is indeed mistakable. Besides his solo work he has performed with The Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan and The Dukes of September. This track was a huge hit for him. It got a ton of air time on the radio as well as on MTV. He also has some great duets such as the one with Patti LaBelle called " On My Own " . BTW.... He was born in St. Lois, Mo. Take care.....
Not sure if he qualifies for PDC, but he had some great songs. With the Doobie Brothers, my favorite was "Takin' It to the Streets". But my absolute favorite was his duet with Patti LaBelle, "On My Own".
Michael was everywhere in the music of the 70’s and 80’s. You can pick out his unique voice on a multitude of albums during those years. His solo albums are all fantastic. Can’t go wrong with any pick.
This is a superstar performance...literally the main 'girl singer' is Emmylou Harris and also on backing The Everly Brothers, with Chet Atkins (The producer mentioned in the intro) and Mark Knopfler on guitars!!
I've been listening to MM since I was a kid in the 70's and he was the lead singer for The Doobie Brothers. I like to describe his voice as smooth, smoky whiskey laced with sweet honey.😍 I love to play his greatest hits on the Bluetooth in my car and relax when I'm driving on long road trips.
It's so fun seeing you out of your chair enjoying this song. Another song that will get you out of your chair is "Smooth" by Santana! Very sultry. More Latin in flavor.
Michael provided backing vocals for many songs in the miid-seventies. He was eventually a member of The Doobie Brothers, and at the same time provided backing vocals for Steely Dan, right thru their last album. Last time I saw a Doobie Bros/Steely Dan concert it was basically a Michael McDonald and Donald Fagen Festival! You can't miss that soulful background voice on Steely Dan's PEG (Aja album), and TIME OUT OF MIND, from their Gaucho album.
You need to start watching the official music videos instead of the live performances, you will be blowed away by the music videos and also you need to watch him a Patti LaBelle sing a song together they have a video
I remember when Michael McDonald was with the Doobie Brothers, but this has got to be the first time I ever saw Emmylou Harris do funk! And was that Chet Atkins on the acoustic guitar???😳
I believe he grew up near East St. Louis. Michael McDonald has always been known for his huge soulful voice and gospel piano chops. Check him out on everything he did with the Doobie Brothers. He also sang BGVs on major hits by Steely Dan, Kenny Loggins and others. McDonald’s vocal range is a baritone, but he possesses a very strong falsetto that he can transition in and out of seamlessly.
You will like It keeps you running. I can't believe you didn't comment about his good looks, any women agree? He grew up during the Motown Era and loved that music! He made an album singing that genre which is beyond awesome! I love All Is Fair In Love.
I don't know who writes the little headlines for the pictures that are put on Facebook for your videos but they are terrible! The ones actually under your vids when they are pulled up are okay, those sound like your comments, but the ones where all the different videos are shown are just ridiculous. You are fine, don't get me wrong, but FB is getting silly. This one compares Michael McDonald to Michael Jackson - they are totally different...
So Warren G used this background slowed down a bit for the song “Regulate” and my gosh it worked like magic as smooth rap. Michael’s studio recording is also little smoother than this live video and his voice isn’t straining, even more iconic.
Mike is one of the most gifted composers and performers of the 70s-80s. He was everywhere from duetting with Aretha and Patti LaBelle, to Todo, Kenny Loggins, and Christopher Cross and many others. He was a player with Steely Dan and then joined the Doobie Brothers from 75-82. Did the solo thing for years before rejoining the Doobs in the past few years. He’s from Michigan, near Flint, and came up in the St Louis music scene before going to California. There’s lots more, but there’s some basic history.
I'll never forget hearing this for the first time - It was in the 2000's and I was in my '20s and starting to accept older, non-metal music (lol). I was really getting into this type of music and soulful smooth jazz and I kept hearing all these songs that I immediately recognized as having been recently sampled for a major hit, like Patrice Rushen's 'Forget Me Nots' which became Will Smith's 'Men in Black', but I never knew they were sampled. Anyways to wrap it up, I was a huge fan of Warren G - and when I heard this song start, I knew it was where 'Regulator' had been sampled from, and I remember exactly where I was on the highway thinking 'o wow this was a sample too - I wonder who sings it?' and I knew it on the first syllable and I just remember thinking 'Of course it would be'. Still one of my favorite songs ever, and the original video has just that perfect level of cheesiness that seems to have only existed in the '80s.
MM has an unforgettable voice that s true. Personally, I like his early song It Keeps Me Running ( 1976 ) by the Doobies. Like so many - most everyone likes most every song he s done. He s so talented and has a good soulful voice. He s well known and well respected in the music world. Can t ever go wrong listening to anything from him.
Michael is from St. Louis Missouri. He's an Icon who has been involved in more music than we'll probably ever know. It's probably easier to ask what has he not been involved with. Lol. He's a Legend. My brother idolized him and his style of singing. That's how I was introduced to his music many many years ago. Michael really does belong in the PDC!!
He's from St Louis and he grew up playing and watching shows at the legendary Club Imperial in St Louis, where everyone from Chuck Berry to Miles Davis to Ike and Tina Turner with a young Jimi Hendrix on guitar jammed.
Mike was lead singer of the Doobies for years. He went solo after that. He’s one of the most soulful singers- check him out with Patti LaBelle on” On My Own”. ❤
What A Fool Believes, This is It with Kenny Loggins, Takin It to the Streets- all timeless MM classics!
Mike is from Ferguson , MO! He’s one of our national treasures.
Also- Mike and James Ingram on “ Yah Mo B There”! ❤❤❤❤
yes - yes -yes to all of the suggestions from @TheDivayenta!
And, the other lead singer from Doobie brothers had a few bangers as well, Listen to the Music, Long Train Running, and Black Water to name a few. I co-sign everything @TheDivayenta said and agree with @quarterfriedwithdirtyrice8108. I love these reaction Britt, keep going and investigate on the ones you really liked.
Yes, with Patti!
He also sang on Ride Like The Wind by Christopher Cross.
He has one of the most unmistakable voices in the industry.
I forgot about takin it to the streets. Great suggestion. Love it.
*"WHAT A FOOL BELIEVES"* is a must hear. Puts you in such a great mood.
Yup!
That is still my favorite Doobie Bros song.
My all time favorite song.❤
I'm thinking that's what she reacted to before.
@CuriousGeorge1111 Yes, she did and loved it! Sadly, she already forgot his unique voice coming into this one.
Check out his duet "On My Own" with Patti Labelle... one of the greatest duets in history, as far as I'm concerned!
that is a timeless souful classic
This is your PDC right here!
💯
Great suggestion
On my Playlist + this ❤😂
The female soloist was none other than another music great, Emmylou Harris.
And the Spanish guitar and electric trading licks were Chet Atkins and Mark Knopfler!
I thought it looked like Chet but the blurred screen it was hard to tell!@@GunsmithSid
The lady singing on the studio version is Michael's daughter Maureen McDonald.
I think Maureen is his sister.
I think that's David Pack from Ambrosia on backing vocals too.
I would say “Taken it to the Street”, “Minute by Minute”, and “What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers. Micheal MacDonald sings the lead. He also has a solo song called “Sweet Freedom”.
Spot on Anita, if she has reacted the older Doobie Brothers she probably heard him before he went out on his own...back in the day of the Doobie Brothers, Chicago, and War.
I love 'Sweet Freedom'....doesn't get enough love/respect.
@@UberFlambeClassic from the movie “Running scared “.
"Sweet Freedom", one of my all-time faves.
He is singing those soulful riffs while at the same time playing a syncopated piano rhythm....TALENT!
When Michael says, "I'd like to join the club and say it's a pleasure to be up here with the best record producer ever," he's referring to Chet Atkins, who plays the electric acoustic guitar toward the end of the song. Chet was a legendary guitarist and record producer for RCA Victor. The other guitarist on the full electric guitar is Mark Knopfler. The singers are David Pack, the legendary Everly Brothers, and the female is country legend, Emmylou Harris. This was recorded at a "Tribute to Chet Atkins" concert at Nashville's Vanderbilt University back in 1987.
The two guitarists were the legendary Chet Atkins on acoustic and Mark Knopfler, who is the singer/lead guitarist in Dire Straits, on electric.
Two LEGENDS!!🔥🔥🔥🔥
Man, I thought I was seeing things. This must be some real shindig for that lineup. I didn't think it was possible I was seeing both those guys. Chet was terrin UP that nylon.
I'd love to know how this lineup got together for this performance.
@@docsavage8640 Cinemax concert special from 1987 -- "Chet Atkins -- Certified Guitar Player". ruclips.net/video/uq0S8kk84XM/видео.html
I was shocked on seeing Mark Knopfler & Mr. Chet Atkins! Guitar Royalty.
The Doobie Brothers (Michael McDonald on Lead Vocals) "What A Fool Believes" ❤
“On My Own “ a duet with Patty LaBelle and Michael definitely puts Michael in the PDC.
Greatest duet for sure - shame the live versions never lived up to the recorded version.
Another one for you to hear is Bobby Caldwell's What You Won't Do For Love. There have been many blue eyed soul singers melted hearts over the years.
Definitely, listen to Bobby Caldwell "What you won't do for Love". It will blow you away
YES, YES, YES... This song is so great!
DO IT, DO IT, DO IT 😁👍🏼🙌🏼
Yup! This! So, this!
Michael was in much demand after he left the Doobies and the fact that he repeatedly sang for Steely Dan is amazing - they were reputedly very demanding on the musicians that worked for them and only retained the very best (and accordingly produced the most amazing music, still popular and much admired today).
@richardlovell4713 if you weren't pretty much a virtuoso on your instrument, Steely Dan didn't have much time for you after they stopped being a real bad.
That last smile and nod was for Chet Atkins and Mark Knopfler. They are both legends and getting to jam with them on one of his songs must have felt awesome!
He was born in St. Louis, Missouri. On the original recording, his sister, Maureen McDonald, sang background vocals.
Oh yeah, one of our greatest "blue-eyed soul" singers. Just a beautiful sound and yes the man is so handsome. He has so many timeless classics. Bobby Caldwell was another from the 70s. Most shocking known song was his hit , "What you wont do for Love" They can make u melt grl. Thanx so much, stay groovy, Peace
I love when young ppl find Michael McDonald’s vocals 🔥🔥🔥
Inductee in the Rock and Roll HOF. He was a member of The Doobie Bros and also Steely Dan. Dude is highly acclaimed and respected in the music industry. I think he's won like 5 or 6 Grammy's. Definitely one of the industry's heavyweights.
Cool fun fact: this song was sampled in Nate Dog and Warren G's tune Regulate.
You lowkey got a good singing voice Britt. If you want some more fun BBQ music check out Sing A Song by Earth Wind and Fire.
You may notice that this song was sampled for Warren G and Nate Dogg - Regulate
@@greggladson8127there's a remix where they incorporate MM sing and the instrumental is more similar to the original too.
Think it's called the Death Row remix. I believe it was in a Death Row greatest hits album and is pretty hard to find.
This man was blessed not just with that voice. But what about that hair!!
And those blue eyes!
The deep and raspy vocals of a legend. I found it amazing how deep his voice was yet he could propel it, amazing. Oh and the style is called Blue eyed soul, lovin' some MD thanks for the upload.
He's done everything in music. Back up on so many artists songs. Unmistakable voice. It stands out heads above everyone else. Incredible singer.
Legendary. His uniqueness as a songwriter and those vocals. When Michael sings, you know it's Michael McDonald.
The lead female backup singer is Emmylou Harris in this video. I didn't know she sang with him. She's got an amazing voice and career that includes songs with Dolly Parton, and many other greats. Also, in the early 90s, this baseline was sampled in the song "Regulate" or "Regulators" by I think it was Warren G.
Nate Dogg & Warren G "Regulate" made Michael McDonald a ton of $.
He's awesome! Taking It To the Streets has always been one of my favorites.❤
Michael's voice popped up on SO MANY records from the 70's to the 90's, including his own, that I've lost count. He was EVERYWHERE during that era.
One of the most distinctive voices of all time
Alright Brit. So this song is where Warren G and Nate Dog sampled for Regulators. in the studio version it will blow you away.
Came here to say this, but you beat me to it 😁
Also came here for same reason..3 weeks later..why..cos i keep forgettin.@@Rosiepooh75
Yeah, I think RUclipsrs who do these reaction videos really should stick with the original studio recordings. I came to see her initial reaction to hearing the intro; but she never caught on right away about this song being sampled like others reactors have. Lyrics are usually easier to hear on studio versions too. But I'm still happy that Michael is invited to the BBQ anyway, lol.
I love seeing ppl smile when they hear a good song! This song it definitely a good one. He is not using any particular style while singing but he has a baritone voice. Maybe that what you are asking? And that dance you did? Love it!
He’s got a breathy soulful voice
BRITT , WHAT YOUR NOT SAYING IS HE IS GORGEOUS.
He's not saying "get away", he still wants her but it's over. He forgets it's over and still has the feelings.
He's been burned and knows she's bad for him and has to control his emotions despite temptation so he doesn't get burned again. Pretty simple..
Michael McDonald has sung with so many artists and bands in both lead and background vocals. He write songs. He’s the quintessential all around musician. He’s one of the most recognizable voices of our time.
His duet with Patti LaBelle On My Own. Gorgeous. Britt!
You just discovered an amazing artist keep listening you won't regret it!!! He was everywhere in the 80's collaborating with so many artist's and still is....he's from St Louis where he grew up....the whole family are musically inclined. He's won many grammies including several for this song...enjoy😊
MM wrote a lot of hits in the 70s and 80s for himself and for and with other artists like Toto, Patti Labelle, Kenny Loggins, and as a member of the Doobie Brothers, a truly remarkable talent.
Michael has a wild sense of rhythm. His voice and keyboard shaped the late 70s, early 80s.
One of my favorite songs of all time. Check out his duet song with James Ingram called "Yah mo' be there".
Britt needs her own talk show on television. The charm.. the cuteness.. the charisma.. the intelligence and the beauty.. would be great on Television.
she does
Bobby Caldwell has a lot of soul in his voice also.
What you won't do for love.
I remember watching this when it came out in 1987. It’s from the Cinemax Session: Chet Atkins. Chet is a legendary guitar player who not only influenced Elvis’ early guitarist, Scotty Moore, but also the Beatles. Chet also produced several Elvis songs for RCA.
Michael is still touring with the Doobie Brothers. I saw them this fall. Michael hasn’t lost a thing. Still has a golden voice.
Michael and I were born three months apart in the same year. He was born in St. Louis, MO and I went to basic in Fort Leonard Wood, MO and my first leave I went into St. Louis but by then he was in L.A. We are both older now, but the music never dies. I used to sing his stuff back then. Did a lot of Jim Morrison of the group "The Doors." I can no longer hit those high notes. The older guys and women who still turn it out are so blessed. God Bless Britt. This is your boy from Tennessee. Peace!
Michael McDonald and the Doobie Brothers had a bunch of hits that were very cool. Lots of blue eyed soul in the 70s and early 80s.
And a good rock band before McDonald changed their course
There were so many unique voices in the 70's! When you heard a song. You knew exactly who was singing!
That man can SANG!!! Blue-eyed soul gets me every single time. Now... talking about this special brand of soul, might we return to George Michael because I'm not sure he's been officially inducted. I'm going to just give you my faves. If you need to do it live, check if it's in his Unplugged performance.
A Different Corner(my personal fave song, ever, by any artist)
Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me with Elton John
Jesus To A Child: (written about his partner that died from AIDS related complications, his entire album, Older, is dedicated to him) There are 2 versions of this song. One is the full version which clocks in at 6:48. The shorter radio edit comes in at 4:44. If you do pick, I'm begging please overlook 48 seconds?
Fast Love: Different side of the same coin as song above. These are both about his lost love, Anselmo. Shows two of the ways grief can make you act or react.
Freedom 90 (Video is STUNNING! TOP models of 90's featured. It's an autobiographical song, watch his video for Faith first and at least one Wham! video to put the lyrics into better context)
Monkey
Praying For Time
Somebody To Love (from the Freddie Mercury tribute concert. He KILLED it. )
Outside (Personally love this one just for the sheer balls shown by making a song about his own arrest)
Careless Whisper aka That sexy baby making sax solo song.
White Light (Which to be honest, since his death, breaks my heart every single time, as does Last Christmas because he died on Christmas 2016)
Waiting For That Day
Older
Heal The Pain
As with Mary J Blige. Stevie Wonder cover.
I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me) his duet with Aretha Franklin.
(He was a powerful duet partner. He knew how to let the others shine, from Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, he actually covered Stevie' work extensively, either in concert live or recorded for albums, Paul McCartney, the list is impressive.)
One of my fave male artists ever. I've seen him a couple times live and he's incredible. His voice just does it for me. He and Patti sang together and talk about a duo! Look up On My Own Patti Labelle and Michael McDonald.
In this period, Michael McDonald was everywhere. Singing back up for so many other musicians.
Was that Chet Atkins on acoustic guitar?
Through the "raindrops" I was asking the same thing!
Absolutely.
I love the comments, people are so passionate about the music. Music unites, very cool!
"Sweet Freedom" is one of Michael McDonald's most infectious grooves, IMO, and highly underrated. I don't know that it'll land him in the PDC. It's not really that type of song, but it's definitely worth a listen!
Smooth as always my man Mike have you play Mike and Patti labelle simply gold it gos in your spine and your heart ❤❤❤❤❤😊
That bass/deep tone aspect of his voice is called "Timber".
He has a very distinctive voice. Even when he's singing background vocals on someone else's songs, he stands out.
BTW. the "greatest producer" Michael referred to at the beginning was Chet Atkins, the older gentleman on the acoustic guitar sharing a guitar solo near the end of the tune.
And as some mention below, McDonald at one time joined the Doobie Brothers for some of their biggest hits like: What a Fool Believes. You might also like a duet of On My Own that he did with Patti LaBelle.
Huge, huge celebrated star. He was on the radio so much that DJs and ppl alike would joke of how tired they got listening to him (and the Bee Gees too so iconic). Smooth groove. 💜🎵
Kenny Loggins - Heart to Heart, This Is It, At Last and Forever
Love Will Follow
Love seeing people discover Michael McDonald! As others stated he was(my favorite) Doobie Brother. Amazing live, saw him @ Pier 17 in 2018, always the best bands. People were dancing in the aisles.
The studio version is so iconic, this live version is tough for a first introduction. Nevertheless, Mike's voice is legendary. Potential PDC president! Obviously "What A Fool Believes", "Minute By Minute", "Takin it to the Streets" and "It Keeps You Runnin". He also did a couple Motown records that are fire!
You nailed it...... Michael's voice is indeed mistakable. Besides his solo work he has performed with The Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan and The Dukes of September. This track was a huge hit for him. It got a ton of air time on the radio as well as on MTV. He also has some great duets such as the one with Patti LaBelle called " On My Own " . BTW.... He was born in St. Lois, Mo. Take care.....
Not sure if he qualifies for PDC, but he had some great songs. With the Doobie Brothers, my favorite was "Takin' It to the Streets". But my absolute favorite was his duet with Patti LaBelle, "On My Own".
Michael was everywhere in the music of the 70’s and 80’s. You can pick out his unique voice on a multitude of albums during those years. His solo albums are all fantastic. Can’t go wrong with any pick.
That was Chet Adkins and Mark Knopfler playing guitar. Both all time greats.
Michael has one of the most distinctive and best voices in rock.
This is a superstar performance...literally the main 'girl singer' is Emmylou Harris and also on backing The Everly Brothers, with Chet Atkins (The producer mentioned in the intro) and Mark Knopfler on guitars!!
I've been listening to MM since I was a kid in the 70's and he was the lead singer for The Doobie Brothers.
I like to describe his voice as smooth, smoky whiskey laced with sweet honey.😍
I love to play his greatest hits on the Bluetooth in my car and relax when I'm driving on long road trips.
It's so fun seeing you out of your chair enjoying this song. Another song that will get you out of your chair is "Smooth" by Santana! Very sultry. More Latin in flavor.
Yes!!! 💁🏻♀️
I love his soulful duet with James Ingram, "Yah Mo Be There." They are both SO powerful.
What a fool believes is another great one from him
FYI - I worked for Hall & Oates when they did a summer tour with Michael! Greatest thing ever! He is super nice and very handsome. ❤
Michael McDonald has several hits of his own. He also made an album called MOTOWN, which covered many R&B Hits. Enjoy 😎👍
Michael provided backing vocals for many songs in the miid-seventies. He was eventually a member of The Doobie Brothers, and at the same time provided backing vocals for Steely Dan, right thru their last album. Last time I saw a Doobie Bros/Steely Dan concert it was basically a Michael McDonald and Donald Fagen Festival! You can't miss that soulful background voice on Steely Dan's PEG (Aja album), and TIME OUT OF MIND, from their Gaucho album.
You need to start watching the official music videos instead of the live performances, you will be blowed away by the music videos and also you need to watch him a Patti LaBelle sing a song together they have a video
I remember when Michael McDonald was with the Doobie Brothers, but this has got to be the first time I ever saw Emmylou Harris do funk! And was that Chet Atkins on the acoustic guitar???😳
Britt,, Now watch & listen to Michael McDonald "I Keep Forgettin'" Official Music Video
I believe he grew up near East St. Louis. Michael McDonald has always been known for his huge soulful voice and gospel piano chops. Check him out on everything he did with the Doobie Brothers. He also sang BGVs on major hits by Steely Dan, Kenny Loggins and others. McDonald’s vocal range is a baritone, but he possesses a very strong falsetto that he can transition in and out of seamlessly.
Best reactions on the Internet!!
Yes, you are right. He did many backing vocals through the 80’s and you could always pick that he was singing.
He was with steely dan for a bit.
His voice is unmistakable! So is Peter Citerra from Chicago!
*Cetera (just to make it easier to search, if Britt decides to look him up)
She should hear some early Chicago alias Chicago Transit Authority.
Does anyone know ow how to recommend a song for her to react to?
When Cetera went solo, Glory of Love
You will like It keeps you running.
I can't believe you didn't comment about his good looks, any women agree?
He grew up during the Motown Era and loved that music! He made an album singing that genre which is beyond awesome! I love All Is Fair In Love.
On My Own with Patti LaBelle
Almost like what!??? This guy is a legend his voice appears in the most iconic songs ever!
Regulators!!!!
Yes!
Nate Dogg
Just hit the East side of the LBC...
I have seen Michael in concert several times and he killed it. Michael is DEFINITELY PDC!!
I don't know who writes the little headlines for the pictures that are put on Facebook for your videos but they are terrible! The ones actually under your vids when they are pulled up are okay, those sound like your comments, but the ones where all the different videos are shown are just ridiculous. You are fine, don't get me wrong, but FB is getting silly. This one compares Michael McDonald to Michael Jackson - they are totally different...
So Warren G used this background slowed down a bit for the song “Regulate” and my gosh it worked like magic as smooth rap. Michael’s studio recording is also little smoother than this live video and his voice isn’t straining, even more iconic.
Smooth
Mike is one of the most gifted composers and performers of the 70s-80s. He was everywhere from duetting with Aretha and Patti LaBelle, to Todo, Kenny Loggins, and Christopher Cross and many others. He was a player with Steely Dan and then joined the Doobie Brothers from 75-82. Did the solo thing for years before rejoining the Doobs in the past few years.
He’s from Michigan, near Flint, and came up in the St Louis music scene before going to California. There’s lots more, but there’s some basic history.
1 of the Smoothest Voices Ever!!!
Smooth. Like sailing calm seas on your yacht.
Michael McDonald’s voice is soooo good.
Michael’s voice is pure PERFECTION ❤
His voice is rich and thick, like a good gravy. Lol It's not thin and runny. There's a body to it. I love Michael's voice. One of the best!
This dude can sing!!! He can sing gospel too. I really like him.
I think he was originally with Steely Dan then Doobie brothers , love his voice from back in the day we were privileged with so much great music .
Southern Rock is all about soul music. It inspired so many musicians 😊😊
This is only the beginning. You have so much more to enjoy!
He is a fabulous artist. Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan and a great solo career. He has brought us so much great music!!
I'll never forget hearing this for the first time - It was in the 2000's and I was in my '20s and starting to accept older, non-metal music (lol). I was really getting into this type of music and soulful smooth jazz and I kept hearing all these songs that I immediately recognized as having been recently sampled for a major hit, like Patrice Rushen's 'Forget Me Nots' which became Will Smith's 'Men in Black', but I never knew they were sampled. Anyways to wrap it up, I was a huge fan of Warren G - and when I heard this song start, I knew it was where 'Regulator' had been sampled from, and I remember exactly where I was on the highway thinking 'o wow this was a sample too - I wonder who sings it?' and I knew it on the first syllable and I just remember thinking 'Of course it would be'. Still one of my favorite songs ever, and the original video has just that perfect level of cheesiness that seems to have only existed in the '80s.
That made me smile, love seeing you have fun :D
MM has an unforgettable voice that s true. Personally, I like his early song It Keeps Me Running ( 1976 ) by the Doobies. Like so many - most everyone likes most every song he s done. He s so talented and has a good soulful voice. He s well known and well respected in the music world. Can t ever go wrong listening to anything from him.
there was some superstars on that stage including Emmylou Harris (second vocals), Chet Atkins and Mark Knopfler on guitars and the Everly Brothers
Michael is from St. Louis Missouri. He's an Icon who has been involved in more music than we'll probably ever know. It's probably easier to ask what has he not been involved with. Lol. He's a Legend. My brother idolized him and his style of singing. That's how I was introduced to his music many many years ago. Michael really does belong in the PDC!!
He's from St Louis and he grew up playing and watching shows at the legendary Club Imperial in St Louis, where everyone from Chuck Berry to Miles Davis to Ike and Tina Turner with a young Jimi Hendrix on guitar jammed.
My favorite singer. Love his song I Can Let Go Now and Peace
"This is barbeque music." Forgive me, I'm laughing. So fun to see young ppl appreciating a Boomer groove. I love the Doobie Brothers, love Michael.