10 Most Rocking Doobie Brothers Songs

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Our 10 most Rockin Doobie Brothers songs article presents some of the most roaring and rocking, “get up out of you seat” rock tunes the band has ever released. The Doobie Brothers have always been a solid rock and roll band with the majority of their songs being up tempo rockers. However the band’s sound has additionally always been fueled by a lot of good old southern funk and New Orleans style soul. With the addition of Michael McDonald in the mid 70s the band added an R&B feel but never lost touch with their true rock and roll roots. This article is a showcase of that rock and roll sound.

# 10 – “The Doctor” – Cycles

Released on the 1989 album Cycles, “The Doctor” is a vibrant return to the Doobie Brothers’ classic rock essence, showcasing their mastery of catchy hooks and upbeat energy. Recorded during the band’s reunion era, the song was produced by Rodney Mills and featured members Tom Johnston on vocals and guitar, Patrick Simmons on guitar, and John McFee on pedal steel guitar. The rhythm section was anchored by Tiran Porter on bass and Keith Knudsen on drums. Peaking at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100, “The Doctor” reaffirmed the Doobies’ ability to dominate the airwaves with an infectious groove that bridged their legacy with a renewed sound.

# 9 – “Dangerous” – Brotherhood

“Dangerous,” from the 1991 album Brotherhood, is a sharp-edged rocker that highlights the band’s ability to balance gritty riffs with polished production. Produced by Rodney Mills, the track features Tom Johnston’s signature lead vocals and guitar work, complemented by Patrick Simmons’ intricate guitar layers and John McFee’s versatile instrumental contributions. The rhythm section, driven by Bobby LaKind’s percussion and Chet McCracken’s drums, provides a propulsive backdrop. Though the album didn’t achieve the commercial heights of their earlier work, “Dangerous” stands out as a testament to the band’s enduring ability to craft dynamic rock tracks.

# 8 – “Down In The Track” – What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits

“Down In The Track,” from the Doobie Brothers’ 1974 album What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits, is a smoky, blues-driven track that highlights the band’s grittier side. Recorded during sessions that showcased their evolution as a versatile rock outfit, the track features Tom Johnston on lead vocals and guitar, with Patrick Simmons providing rhythm guitar and backing vocals. Produced by Ted Templeman, the song also includes Tiran Porter’s deep, resonant bass lines and John Hartman’s steady drum work. While not a single, the song underscores the band’s ability to fuse blues and rock with emotional depth.

# 7 – “Jesus Is Just Alright” – Toulouse Street

The Doobie Brothers gave “Jesus Is Just Alright” a fresh, electrifying treatment on their 1972 album Toulouse Street. Originally written by Arthur Reid Reynolds and popularized by The Byrds, the Doobies’ version stands out with its driving guitar riffs and vocal harmonies. Produced by Ted Templeman, the track features Patrick Simmons and Tom Johnston sharing vocal duties, supported by Simmons’ acoustic guitar and Johnston’s electric leads. John Hartman’s energetic drumming and Tiran Porter’s bass grooves push the song into rock territory. A fan favorite, it became a minor hit, peaking at number 35 on the Billboard Hot 100.

# 6 – “Wheels Of Fortune” – Takin’ It To The Streets

“Wheels Of Fortune,” from 1976’s Takin’ It To The Streets, showcases a seamless blend of soulful melodies and rock sensibilities. Written by Patrick Simmons, the song features his evocative lead vocals and intricate guitar work, with Michael McDonald’s signature keyboard arrangements adding depth. Produced by Ted Templeman, the track also highlights Keith Knudsen’s dynamic drumming and Jeff “Skunk” Baxter’s steel guitar contributions. While not released as a single, “Wheels Of Fortune” captures the transitional period when McDonald joined the band, marking their foray into a more polished, R&B-influenced sound.

# 5 – “Listen to the Music” – Toulouse Street

As the opening track on 1972’s Toulouse Street, “Listen to the Music” is an enduring anthem of positivity and one of the Doobie Brothers’ most iconic songs. Written by Tom Johnston and produced by Ted Templeman, the track features Johnston’s bright lead vocals and rhythmic acoustic guitar. Patrick Simmons adds complementary harmonies and guitar layers, while Tiran Porter’s bass and John Hartman’s drumming create a groove that carries the song’s optimistic message. Peaking at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100, it cemented the Doobies as a force in the early 1970s rock scene.

# 4 – “Long Train Runnin'” – The Captain and Me

“Long Train Runnin’,” featured on The Captain and Me (1973), is one of the Doobie Brothers’ most recognizable tracks. Written by Tom Johnston, the song evolved from an improvised jam into a full-fledged hit, thanks to producer Ted Templeman’s encouragement. Johnston’s funky rhythm guitar and raspy vocals shine, while Patrick Simmons’ complementary guitar licks and Tiran Porter’s fluid bass provide the groove. John Hartman and Michael Hossack’s dual drumming give the track its driving energy. Peaking at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, it solidified the band’s reputation for crafting infectious, groove-laden rock.

# 3 – “Rockin’ Down the Highway” – Toulouse Street

A testament to the Doobie Brothers’ rock roots, “Rockin’ Down the Highway” from Toulouse Street (1972) is a high-octane road anthem. Written and sung by Tom Johnston, the song features his powerful lead vocals and driving guitar riffs, perfectly paired with Patrick Simmons’ harmonized backing vocals. Ted Templeman’s production ensures the track’s relentless momentum, with Tiran Porter’s bass and John Hartman’s drumming adding to the sense of motion. Though not released as a single, it remains a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances.

# 2 – “China Grove” – The Captain and Me

“China Grove,” also from The Captain and Me (1973), captures the Doobie Brothers at their most electrifying. Written by Tom Johnston, the track features his fiery guitar work and commanding vocals. Producer Ted Templeman helped polish the song’s infectious riff, while John Hartman’s energetic drumming and Tiran Porter’s pulsating bass locked in the groove. Jeff Baxter’s slide guitar adds a touch of flair to the mix. The song peaked at number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the band’s most enduring classics and a testament to their Southern rock-infused style.

# 1 – “Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me)” – Stampede

The Doobie Brothers’ 1975 rendition of “Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me)” on Stampede is a soulful reimagining of the Holland-Dozier-Holland classic. Michael McDonald’s rich keyboard work complements Tom Johnston’s impassioned lead vocals, with Patrick Simmons and Jeff Baxter adding guitar textures. Producer Ted Templeman brought a polished, yet heartfelt touch to the arrangement. The song reached number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100, offering a perfect blend of rock energy and Motown-inspired soul, and remains one of their most beloved covers.