Fans of The Doobie Brothers have much to anticipate beyond the 2024 tour dates. The iconic rock band, which reunited with its core lineup in 2019 for a 50th-anniversary tour that kicked off in 2021 after pandemic-related delays, has continued to tour extensively. The group, now featuring co-founders Tom Johnston and Pat Simmons, along with longtime members Michael McDonald and John McFee, recently announced a series of 2024 tour dates and will also release a new album, marking their first collaboration with McDonald in 44 years.
In an interview with Billboard, Simmons and Johnston shared their excitement about creating new music with McDonald, who rejoined the band for the 50th-anniversary tour after a nearly four-decade hiatus. The upcoming album will be the band's 16th studio release and a follow-up to 2021's Liberté.
Simmons expressed enthusiasm about the creative process, highlighting the unique dynamic between Johnston and McDonald, who had not previously collaborated in this capacity. The band members are thrilled about the synergy in the studio, emphasizing that the project transcends their individual contributions.
While the album title and release date are yet to be revealed, Simmons confirmed that the songs are complete, with the project approximately halfway finished. One confirmed track, 'Walk This Road,' features lead vocals by McDonald and Johnston, with a guest appearance by R&B/soul legend Mavis Staples.
Although it remains uncertain whether the band will perform new material during their upcoming tour, they are scheduled to embark on a 38-date North American tour later this year. The tour will cover cities that were missed in previous years, running from June 15 to August 30.
In addition to their live performances and upcoming album, McDonald is set to release a memoir titled What a Fool Believes on May 21. Co-authored with actor Paul Reiser, the memoir delves into McDonald's personal and professional journey, offering insights into his collaborations and experiences in the music industry.
As fans eagerly await the new album and tour, the memoir release adds another dimension to the band's ongoing legacy, providing a deeper understanding of McDonald's remarkable career and the stories behind the music.
