The Doobie Brothers returned to a familiar stage Tuesday night as they kicked off their Walk This Road tour at Pine Knob Music Theatre. With a career spanning more than five decades, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers proved once again why their timeless blend of rock, soul, and funk continues to resonate with fans both old and new.
The evening began on a heartfelt, tropical note as The Coral Reefer Band—longtime collaborators of the late Jimmy Buffett—opened the show with a joyful tribute set. With a healthy contingent of Parrot Heads in attendance, the crowd swayed and sang along to Buffett classics like “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere,” “Come Monday,” and “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” Throughout the set, a large screen displayed video footage of Buffett himself, adding a bittersweet warmth to the celebration of his music. Naturally, the set closed with a jubilant singalong to “Margaritaville,” leaving the crowd smiling and sun-soaked in spirit.
When the Doobie Brothers took the stage to the groove of “Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me),” the energy in the amphitheatre shot up. Founding member Patrick Simmons greeted the crowd warmly noting that the band has probably played the venue “50 times” over the years—a testament to their enduring popularity in Michigan.
The band powered through a 19-song set that was equal parts greatest hits and fresh cuts. Songs from their new album Walk This Road, including the title track and the standout rocker “Angels & Mercy”—a gritty number penned and sung by Simmons about a man on the edge—were met with genuine enthusiasm. While the new material showed the band’s continued creative spark, it was the classics that ignited the loudest cheers.
Hits like “It Keeps You Runnin’,” “Minute By Minute,” and “Long Train Runnin’” had fans dancing in the aisles, while “Jesus Is Just Alright” sent the entire amphitheatre into a frenzy, bringing nearly everyone to their feet. The set closed with a raucous rendition of “China Grove,” leaving the crowd begging for more.
They didn’t have to wait long. The encore delivered a triple-shot of nostalgia, starting with the swampy harmonies of “Black Water,” followed by a soulful “Takin’ It to the Streets,” and capped off with the crowd-pleasing anthem everyone had been waiting for—“Listen to the Music.” By the final chorus, Pine Knob was a sea of swaying arms and singing voices.
With their signature vocal harmonies, seasoned musicianship, and a setlist packed with hits and heartfelt new songs, The Doobie Brothers proved they’re not just walking the road—they’re still paving it.
Doobie Brothers Set List
- Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me a Little While)
- Here to Love You
- Dependin’ on You
- Walk This Road
- Rockin’ Down the Highway
- It Keeps You Runnin’
- Call Me
- Minute by Minute
- Learn to Let Go
- Angels & Mercy
- Without You
- Jesus Is Just Alright
- What a Fool Believes
- Long Train Runnin’
- China Grove
Encore:
- Black Water
- Amazing Grace
- Takin’ It to the Streets
- Listen to the Music
All photos by Dan Boshart
The Doobie Brothers:
Coral Reefer Band:
