Doobie Brothers Celebrate Over 50 Years in Music With Special Pine Knob Concert

While started in San Jose, California during the 1970s, Tom Johnston and Patrick Simmons had no idea what the future would hold for the Doobie Brothers. Loving to blend folk, country, and R&B, the group released over a dozen studio albums. Their last album to release was back in 2021. Spending over 50 years in the music industry, the band recently took over the Pine Knob Theatre for a special performance that showcased their rich history and even included other musicians like Steve Winwood.

Having played the venue numerous times over the decades, the Doobie Brothers felt right at home when they took the stage. But this time was a little more special given that Johnston celebrated his 75th birthday. Born on August 15, 1948, Simmons took some time to hurl some jokes at his friend. “This is a special evening because my friend here is turning 39 again. After 53 years of playing with this guy, I can’t tell you how wonderful it is to be standing next to him once again this evening on his birthday.”

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The Doobie Brothers Extend Their 2024 Tour

Walking on stage around 8:30 p.m., the Doobie Brothers took fans on a trip into the past as they played for nearly two hours. Covering some of their most popular songs, the night welcomed more than the group as Winwood kicked the evening off. A member of bands like Traffic and the Spencer Davis Group, Winwood took the stage to perform songs like “Gimme Some Lovin’” and “Higher Love.”

With the Doobie Brothers and Winwood entertaining the crowd, fans received a special treat that featured great music and a great deal of history. Among the songs the group performed throughout the night included “Minute by Minute”, “You Belong to Me”, and “Jesus is Alright.”

Currently helming their 2024 tour, the Doobie Brothers appear in high spirits as they recently extended their tour with new dates in New York. Thrilled by the reception they received on the road, Simmons told USA Today, “We’ll be playing all the iconic songs that we know you want to hear, as well a few new tunes, and deep cuts that will make this a show to remember. We…can hardly wait to rock out Doobie style!”

(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images)