Complete List Of The Doobie Brothers Albums And Songs

Feature Photo: Randy Miramontez / Shutterstock.com

The Doobie Brothers were formed in 1970 in San Jose, California. The group’s name was suggested by a friend joking about their frequent cannabis use. The band’s founding members included Tom Johnston (guitar, vocals), Patrick Simmons (guitar, vocals), John Hartman (drums), and Dave Shogren (bass). They began as a local garage band but quickly evolved, blending rock, R&B, and country music into a style that became uniquely identifiable with the Doobie Brothers.

Over the course of their career, The Doobie Brothers have released fourteen studio albums, six live albums, and numerous compilation albums. Their first album, The Doobie Brothers (1971), did not chart well, but their career trajectory changed dramatically with their second album, Toulouse Street (1972), which included hits like “Listen to the Music” and “Jesus is Just Alright.” This album marked their breakthrough, reaching number 21 on the Billboard 200. Their 1978 album, Minute by Minute, won them a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group and featured “What a Fool Believes,” which won Grammys for both Song of the Year and Record of the Year.

The Doobie Brothers achieved significant commercial success with several of their albums reaching platinum status. The Captain and Me (1973) and What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits (1974) both reached number 7 and number 4 on the Billboard 200, respectively. The band has been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards, winning four times. They have also been awarded with the Diamond Award for their album Best of The Doobies (1976), which has sold more than 10 million copies.

Throughout their history, The Doobie Brothers underwent numerous personnel changes. The most notable change was the addition of Michael McDonald in 1975, whose arrival marked a shift towards a more soulful sound and helped propel the band to further commercial success. The Doobie Brothers disbanded in 1982 but reunited in 1987 and have been active since, continuing to tour and release new music. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020, a testament to their enduring influence and popularity in the music industry.

THE DOOBIE BROTHERS STUDIO ALBUMS

The Doobie Brothers (1971)

Released: April 30, 1971

The Doobie Brothers is the debut studio album by the American rock band. It introduced the band’s mix of rock, country, and folk sounds but did not initially chart. However, the album contains elements that foreshadowed the group’s later, more successful sound. The album featured Tom Johnston on guitar and lead vocals, Patrick Simmons on guitar, Dave Shogren on bass, and John Hartman on drums. Produced by Lenny Waronker and Ted Templeman, it was recorded at Pacific Recording Studios in San Mateo, California.

CD Track Listings:

“Nobody” – 3:45
“Slippery St. Paul” – 2:14
“Greenwood Creek” – 3:04
“It Won’t Be Right” – 2:38
“Travelin’ Man” – 4:25
“Feelin’ Down Farther” – 4:20
“The Master” – 3:30
“Growin’ a Little Each Day” – 3:20
“The Beehive State” – 2:42
“Closer Every Day” – 4:19
“Chicago” – 1:40

Toulouse Street (1972)

Toulouse Street by Doobie Brothers [Music CD]

Released: July 1, 1972

Toulouse Street marked the band’s breakthrough, featuring their first major hits “Listen to the Music” and “Jesus is Just Alright.” The album reached number 21 on the Billboard 200, establishing the Doobie Brothers as a significant act in the rock scene of the early ’70s. This album expanded the band’s sound with more robust production and the addition of Michael Hossack on drums alongside John Hartman, enhancing their dual-drummer setup. It was produced by Ted Templeman and recorded at Warner Bros. Studios in North Hollywood, California.

CD Track Listings:

“Listen to the Music” – 4:44
“Rockin’ Down the Highway” – 3:21
“Mamaloi” – 2:28
“Toulouse Street” – 3:20
“Cotton Mouth” – 3:45
“Don’t Start Me to Talkin'” – 2:41
“Jesus Is Just Alright” – 4:33
“White Sun” – 2:28
“Disciple” – 6:42
“Snake Man” – 1:36

The Captain and Me (1973)

Released: March 2, 1973

The Captain and Me is considered one of the Doobie Brothers’ best albums, reaching number 7 on the Billboard 200. It includes hits such as “Long Train Runnin'” and “China Grove,” which have become rock staples. The album’s success solidified their status in the rock and roll landscape of the 1970s. With Ted Templeman’s production, the album was again recorded at Warner Bros. Studios in North Hollywood. This album features intricate harmonies and a blend of rock, country, and folk influences that define the band’s signature sound.

CD Track Listings:

“Natural Thing” – 3:17
“Long Train Runnin'” – 3:25
“China Grove” – 3:14
“Dark Eyed Cajun Woman” – 4:12
“Clear as the Driven Snow” – 5:18
“Without You” – 4:58
“South City Midnight Lady” – 5:27
“Evil Woman” – 3:17
“Busted Down Around O’Connelly Corners” – 0:48
“Ukiah” – 3:04

What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits (1974)

Released: February 1, 1974

What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits continued the band’s successful streak, peaking at number 4 on the Billboard 200. The album featured the hit “Black Water,” which became their first number one single on the Billboard Hot 100. This album showcases a variety of styles, from rock and roll to smooth, melodic tunes that highlight the band’s versatility and instrumental prowess. It was produced by Ted Templeman and recorded at Warner Bros. Studios in North Hollywood.

CD Track Listings:

“Song to See You Through” – 4:06
“Spirit” – 3:15
“Pursuit on 53rd St.” – 2:33
“Black Water” – 4:17
“Eyes of Silver” – 2:57
“Road Angel” – 4:49
“You Just Can’t Stop It” – 3:28
“Tell Me What You Want (And I’ll Give You What You Need)” – 3:53
“Down in the Track” – 4:15
“Another Park, Another Sunday” – 4:27
“Daughters of the Sea” – 4:29
“Flying Cloud” – 2:00

Stampede (1975)

Released: April 25, 1975

Stampede is the fifth studio album by The Doobie Brothers and includes the hits “Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me a Little While)” and “Sweet Maxine.” The album reached number 4 on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing the band’s continued success. Stampede features a blend of rock, country, R&B, and folk influences, highlighting the band’s musical diversity. Produced by Ted Templeman, it was recorded at Warner Bros. Studios in North Hollywood. Jeff “Skunk” Baxter joined the band on this album, adding a new dimension to their sound.

CD Track Listings:

“Sweet Maxine” – 4:26
“Neal’s Fandango” – 3:16
“Texas Lullaby” – 5:00
“Music Man” – 3:28
“Slack Key Soquel Rag” – 1:50
“Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me a Little While)” – 3:39
“I Cheat the Hangman” – 6:38
“Précis” – 0:56
“Rainy Day Crossroad Blues” – 3:45
“I Been Workin’ on You” – 4:22
“Double Dealin’ Four Flusher” – 3:30

Takin’ It to the Streets (1976)

Released: March 19, 1976

Takin’ It to the Streets is a pivotal album for The Doobie Brothers as it marks the arrival of Michael McDonald, whose soulful voice and keyboard skills steered the band in a new direction towards more soul and R&B-infused rock. The album features the title track and “It Keeps You Runnin’,” both hits that helped the album reach number 8 on the Billboard 200. This shift in style was well-received and showcased the band’s ability to evolve. Produced by Ted Templeman, the album was recorded at Warner Bros. Studios in North Hollywood.

CD Track Listings:

“Wheels of Fortune” – 4:54
“Takin’ It to the Streets” – 3:56
“8th Avenue Shuffle” – 4:39
“Losin’ End” – 3:39
“Rio” – 3:50
“For Someone Special” – 5:04
“It Keeps You Runnin'” – 4:20
“Turn It Loose” – 3:53
“Carry Me Away” – 4:09

Livin’ on the Fault Line (1977)

Released: August 19, 1977

Livin’ on the Fault Line did not feature any major hits but is noted for its sophisticated, jazz-inflected sound, further expanding on the stylistic changes brought by Michael McDonald. The album peaked at number 10 on the Billboard 200. This album is characterized by its mellow tones and intricate arrangements, reflecting a deeper exploration into soft rock and soul. It was produced by Ted Templeman and recorded at Sunset Sound Recorders in Los Angeles.

CD Track Listings:

“You’re Made That Way” – 3:36
“Echoes of Love” – 2:57
“Little Darling (I Need You)” – 3:27
“You Belong to Me” – 3:04
“Livin’ on the Fault Line” – 4:42
“Nothin’ But a Heartache” – 3:07
“Chinatown” – 4:55
“There’s a Light” – 4:12
“Need a Lady” – 3:22
“Larry the Logger Two-Step” – 1:16

Minute by Minute (1978)

Released: December 1, 1978

Minute by Minute is one of The Doobie Brothers’ most successful albums, winning a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group. The album features “What a Fool Believes,” which hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The album itself spent five weeks at number 1 on the Billboard 200, cementing its place as a classic in rock and pop music history. This album is heavily influenced by Michael McDonald’s songwriting and vocals, pushing the band further into the realm of R&B and soul. It was produced by Ted Templeman and recorded at Warner Bros. Studios in North Hollywood.

CD Track Listings:

“Here to Love You” – 3:58
“What a Fool Believes” – 3:41
“Minute by Minute” – 3:26
“Dependin’ on You” – 3:44
“Don’t Stop to Watch the Wheels” – 3:26
“Open Your Eyes” – 3:18
“Sweet Feelin'” – 2:41
“Steamer Lane Breakdown” – 3:24
“You Never Change” – 3:26
“How Do the Fools Survive?” – 5:12

One Step Closer (1980)

Released: September 17, 1980

One Step Closer continues to explore the smooth, soft rock sound that defined the later years of The Doobie Brothers before their initial breakup in 1982. The album includes the hit single “Real Love,” which reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, and the title track “One Step Closer” also saw significant chart success. The album reached number 3 on the Billboard 200. Produced by Ted Templeman, it was recorded at Sunset Sound in Los Angeles. This album marks a period of transition for the band, featuring intricate harmonies and polished production.

CD Track Listings:

“Dedicate This Heart” – 4:07
“Real Love” – 4:18
“No Stopping Us Now” – 4:40
“Thank You Love” – 6:22
“One Step Closer” – 4:10
“Keep This Train A-Rollin'” – 3:29
“Just in Time” – 2:43
“South Bay Strut” – 4:05
“Olana” – 3:00

Cycles (1989)

Released: May 17, 1989

Cycles marked The Doobie Brothers’ return after a hiatus, revitalizing their classic sound for a new era. The album spawned the hit “The Doctor,” which reached number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100. Cycles itself achieved a respectable number 17 on the Billboard 200, signaling a successful comeback for the band. Produced by Charlie Midnight and featuring the return of key members like Michael McDonald for guest appearances, the album was recorded at various studios, including Capitol Studios in Hollywood. The album’s sound blends the band’s signature rock with a contemporary 80s production style.

CD Track Listings:

“The Doctor” – 3:47
“One Chain (Don’t Make No Prison)” – 3:42
“Take Me to the Highway” – 3:21
“South of the Border” – 4:17
“Time Is Here and Gone” – 3:50
“Need a Little Taste of Love” – 4:05
“I Can Read Your Mind” – 4:30
“Tonight I’m Coming Through (The Border)” – 4:30
“Wrong Number” – 4:09
“Too High a Price” – 4:14

Brotherhood (1991)

Released: April 15, 1991

Brotherhood continued The Doobie Brothers’ trend of blending rock, pop, and R&B elements. Despite failing to produce major hits, the album showcased the band’s enduring talent and musical versatility. The album reached number 82 on the Billboard 200. Recorded in various studios and produced by Rodney Mills, Brotherhood offers a mix of new tracks and performances that highlight the band’s cohesiveness after their reunion.

CD Track Listings:

“Something You Said” – 4:21
“Is Love Enough” – 4:24
“Dangerous” – 5:02
“Our Love” – 4:27
“Divided Highway” – 3:44
“Under the Spell” – 4:34
“Excited” – 4:32
“This Train I’m On” – 3:44
“Showdown” – 4:56
“Rollin’ On” – 4:44

Sibling Rivalry (2000)

Released: October 3, 2000

Sibling Rivalry is another solid addition to The Doobie Brothers’ catalog, featuring a blend of rock, country, and blues influences. While the album did not achieve significant commercial success, it was well-received by fans for maintaining the band’s signature sound into the new millennium. This album, produced by Guy Allison and Michael McDonald among others, was recorded at various locations and reflects the band’s efforts to adapt to the changing musical landscape while staying true to their roots.

CD Track Listings:

“People Gotta Love Again” – 4:48
“Leave My Heartache Behind” – 3:54
“Ordinary Man” – 4:00
“Jericho” – 5:46
“On Every Corner” – 3:43
“Angels of Madness” – 4:40
“45th Floor” – 5:07
“Can’t Stand to Lose” – 3:56
“Higher Ground” – 4:20
“Gates of Eden” – 4:59
“Don’t Be Afraid” – 5:49
“Rocking Horse” – 5:24
“Five Corners” – 1:53

World Gone Crazy (2010)

Released: September 28, 2010

World Gone Crazy marked a return to form for The Doobie Brothers, blending classic rock with modern touches and featuring collaborations with former members like Michael McDonald. The album reached number 39 on the Billboard 200, showcasing the band’s enduring appeal. Produced by Ted Templeman, who returned to work with the band after several decades, the album was recorded at Sunset Sound in Los Angeles. This album includes a mix of new tracks and re-recordings of older material, illustrating the band’s long-standing musical journey.

CD Track Listings:

“A Brighter Day” – 3:50
“Chateau” – 4:26
“Nobody” – 4:00
“World Gone Crazy” – 5:09
“Far From Home” – 3:44
“Young Man’s Game” – 3:48
“Don’t Say Goodbye” (featuring Michael McDonald) – 5:00
“My Baby” – 3:47
“Old Juarez” – 3:49
“I Know We Won” (featuring Willie Nelson) – 4:26
“Law Dogs” – 3:35
“Little Prayer” – 2:55
“New York Dream” – 5:05

Southbound (2014)

Released: November 4, 2014

Southbound is a collaborative album that features new recordings of The Doobie Brothers’ biggest hits, performed with country music artists such as Blake Shelton, Zac Brown Band, and Brad Paisley. The album achieved success on the Billboard 200, peaking at number 16. It was a unique project that showcased the band’s classic songs in a new light, blending rock and country genres seamlessly. Produced by David Huff, the album was recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, highlighting the band’s versatility and influence across different musical styles.

CD Track Listings:

“Black Water” (with Zac Brown Band) – 4:20
“Listen to the Music” (with Blake Shelton and Hunter Hayes on guitar) – 4:18
“What a Fool Believes” (with Sara Evans) – 3:45
“Long Train Runnin'” (with Toby Keith and Huey Lewis on harmonica) – 3:29
“China Grove” (with Chris Young) – 3:15
“Takin’ It to the Streets” (with Love and Theft) – 4:40
“Jesus is Just Alright” (with Casey James) – 4:07
“Rockin’ Down the Highway” (with Brad Paisley) – 3:22
“Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me a Little While)” (with Tyler Farr) – 3:50
“South City Midnight Lady” (with Jerrod Niemann) – 4:38
“You Belong to Me” (with Amanda Sudano Ramirez of Johnnyswim and Vince Gill on guitar) – 3:30
“Nobody” (with Charlie Worsham) – 4:03

Liberté (2021)

Released: October 1, 2021

Liberté is one of the latest albums by The Doobie Brothers, showcasing the band’s continued creativity and musical evolution. The album, which did not chart as prominently as their previous releases, still offers a fresh take on their sound, with a blend of rock, pop, and soul influences. Produced by John Shanks and The Doobie Brothers, Liberté was recorded at Henson Recording Studios in Los Angeles, focusing on original material that emphasizes the band’s cohesive musicianship and harmonious vocals.