LIVE: The Doobie Brothers “50th Anniversary Tour” @ SPAC, 06/16/2022

By Blythe Macomber On Jun 20, 2022

Saratoga Performing Arts Center welcomed The Doobie Brothers’ “50th Anniversary Tour” to the SPAC stage on Thursday night, June 16, 2022. A light rain fell as fans made their way into the venue, although the weather did not seem to dampen anyone’s spirits.

With no opening act, the Doobies hit the stage promptly at 8 pm. Founding guitarist Pat Simmons was joined by long-time multi-instrumentalist John McFee at center stage. McFee wielding a vintage dobro and Simmons an acoustic guitar, they traded off guitar licks before being joined by original singer/guitarist Tom Johnston. They opened the show with “Nobody” which was the opening track from their eponymous 1971 debut record. The acoustic intro quickly gave way to a rollicking groove. The rhythm section of Ed Toth on drums, Marc Quiñones on percussion, and John Cowan propelled the band forward with urgency. The triple-guitar attack of Johnston, Simmons, and McFee was something to behold. Johnston’s leads in particular were intricate and absolutely beautiful to listen to. He has a very distinct, percussive guitar playing style.

The setlist spanned their entire career. Twenty-four songs in just under two hours. The audience was definitely on the older side, but a surprising number of young people were also enjoying the show. This band has been recording and touring since the Nixon administration. The original members are all in their seventies. Most artists lose a step or two with age, not the Doobie Brothers. I was absolutely floored when they started singing. Their harmonies are super tight and they sound just as good as they did in 1971. Keyboard player/singer Michael McDonald’s thundering baritone is still as smooth as ever. Sax player Marc Russo added some incredible horns to the mix. I cannot believe that it took me this long to see them live. I can honestly say that as long as they are touring, I will be going to see them in concert.

SETLIST