The Doobie Brothers Give Budweiser Gardens a Fitting Sendoff

photos by Dan Savoie

“Listen to the Music,” they said, and London did just that. The Doobie Brothers, those venerable architects of American rock, rolled into Budweiser Gardens on October 8, 2024, for a show that was anything but a predictable stroll through their greatest hits. Instead, it was a vibrant, soul-stirring journey through five decades of musical evolution, proving that these California rockers can still ignite a crowd with the best of them. As the final concert under the Budweiser Gardens moniker, the Doobies ensured the venue’s name change would be ushered out with a bang, not a whimper.

The Doobie Brothers, formed in 1970 in San Jose, California, have been a cornerstone of American rock for over five decades. With founding members Tom Johnston and Patrick Simmons still at the helm, joined by Michael McDonald and John McFee, the band has navigated numerous lineup changes while maintaining their distinctive sound.

This concert marked only the fourth time the Doobie Brothers have graced London with their presence, following performances in 1980, 2009, and 2022. The rarity of their visits made this show all the more special, and the band didn’t disappoint, delivering a marathon 25-song setlist that spanned their entire career.

Opening with the soulful “Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me a Little While),” the Doobies immediately set the tone for the evening. The energy was electric as they seamlessly transitioned into “Here to Love You” and “Dependin’ on You,” showcasing their ability to blend rock, soul, and country influences.

The middle of the set was a treasure trove for longtime fans, featuring deep cuts like “Clear as the Driven Snow” and “Cannonball.” These lesser-known tracks demonstrated the band’s commitment to their entire catalog, not just the chart-toppers.

One of the night’s highlights came with “Spirit,” a song that perfectly encapsulates the Doobie Brothers’ ability to create introspective, melodic rock. The harmonies were tight, and the instrumental work was flawless, proving that age has only refined their musical prowess.

As the show progressed, the hits began to flow. “Minute by Minute” had the crowd swaying, while “What a Fool Believes” showcased Michael McDonald’s still-powerful voice. The inclusion of these tracks from the McDonald era demonstrated the band’s respect for all phases of their career.

The energy in the arena reached its peak with “Long Train Runnin'” and “China Grove,” two of the band’s most recognizable hits. The guitar work on these tracks was particularly impressive, with Johnston and Simmons trading licks that sounded as fresh as they did decades ago.

The encore was a perfect capstone to the evening. “Black Water” had the entire arena singing along, while the inclusion of “Amazing Grace” was an unexpected and touching moment. The show closed with “Takin’ It to the Streets” and “Listen to the Music,” leaving the audience on a high note.

What set this concert apart was the Doobie Brothers’ willingness to dig deep into their catalog. While many classic rock acts stick to a greatest hits format, the Doobies peppered their set with tracks like “Walk This Road” and “World Gone Crazy,” keeping longtime fans engaged and introducing newer listeners to the depth of their discography.

The band’s musicianship was on full display throughout the night. Johnston and Simmons’ guitar work was as crisp as ever, McDonald’s keyboards and vocals added depth and soul, and McFee’s contributions on multiple instruments showcased the band’s versatility.

As the final notes faded away, it was clear that the Doobie Brothers had delivered more than just a concert – they had provided a journey through the history of American rock. This show, the last under the Budweiser Gardens name before it became Canada Life Place, was a fitting send-off for the venue and a testament to the enduring power of the Doobie Brothers’ music.

Setlist: