The Doobie Brothers @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Maryland Heights, MO

Words and pictures by Duane Clawson
Some would consider only photographing and reviewing the opening band as somewhat of a consolation prize, that is, unless the opening band is the Doobie Brothers.  These music icons were in town to open up for another legendary band, Boston.  The list of the accomplishments for the Doobie Brothers is as long as their storied career.  Grammy awards, Vocal Group Hall of Fame inductions, and forty million albums sold worldwide just barely scratch the surface of the accolades this band has received.  Original members, Pat Simmons and Tom Johnston, have fronted this band for the past forty-five years, which in itself is quite a feat.  Although there have been many lineup changes throughout the years, the quality of music has never suffered.

Diving right into the good stuff, the Doobies opened with the classic, “Jesus is Just Alright With Me”.  This song sounded just as great as it did the first time I heard it live in 1982.  Yes, I’m that old!  Not straying from the classics, the Brothers struck the familiar chords of the driving classic, “Rockin' Down the Highway”.  Just to show they have not lost their ability to make new music, the band played the title track from 2010’s, “World Gone Crazy”.  Selections from classic albums such as Minute by Minute and the 1975 album Stampede dotted the setlist.  As I watched the band perform, it was evident that these guys still enjoyed playing together and Pat Simmons and Tom Johnston are still a dynamic duo when it comes to masters of the guitar.  The strong back beat of dual drummers propelled the band through a two-song encore.  “China Grove” and “Listen to the Music” left St. Louis still wanting more Doobies.  To see musicians such as John McFee, who has been a member of the band since 1979, still having fun and enjoying what they do, made this show one the highlights of my live music coverage career!  Thanks to John at Live Nation and the Doobie Brothers for making it all happen!  Photos of the show are below:

Contributed by Duane Clawson
The Doobie Brothers @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Maryland Heights, MO The Doobie Brothers @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Maryland Heights, MO Reviewed by Scott Rowe, Editor on July 08, 2014 Rating: 5
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