Michael McDonald: I Went from “Couch Surfing” to Playing Arenas… in Just a Few Days!
May 21, 2024
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Michael McDonald, known for his work with Steely Dan and The Doobie Brothers, shares stories of writing songs on envelopes, feeling self-conscious on stage, and the impact of getting sober. He discusses his solo career, thoughts on 'yacht rock,' and how a unexpected offer changed his life. The conversation also touches on his musical influences, journey of sobriety, and songwriting process.
Michael McDonald overcame insecurity as a frontman for The Doobie Brothers, adapting to the spotlight.
Transitioning from a band member to a solo artist, McDonald found success with radio hits.
McDonald battled addiction, stressing the importance of sobriety and genuine songwriting over perfectionism.
Deep dives
Early Musical Influences and Beginnings
Michael McDonald's early exposure to music through his father, who sang in bars, sparked his passion for singing at a young age. His interest in music began as he watched performances and eventually sang at five years old, realizing his love for music. Growing up and self-teaching himself keyboard, McDonald navigated uncertain career prospects, supported by his family but aware of the challenges in the music industry.
Opportunity with Steely Dan and Unforeseen Circumstances
At 18, Michael McDonald was discovered by a producer, Rick Charrard, who brought him to California to record a demo with RCA Records. Despite the promising opportunity cutting a song with renowned musicians and songwriter duo Elton John and Bernie Taupin, McDonald was dropped promptly after the record's completion. However, through this setback, McDonald gained valuable experience working on sessions and developing his craft.
Transition to The Doobie Brothers and Career Challenges
Transitioning to The Doobie Brothers as a temporary replacement for Tom Johnson, McDonald found himself thrust into the spotlight as the band's frontman. Initially feeling uncomfortable on stage, McDonald faced the challenge of performing iconic hits to massive audiences. Despite his reservations, McDonald's vocal talent and adaptability led to an enduring tenure with the band, eventually becoming a core member and solidifying his place in music history.
Michael McDonald's Music Journey and Solo Career
Michael McDonald discusses his transition from being a member of the Duby Brothers to embarking on a solo career. Initially hesitant about being a solo artist, he found himself committed to the idea of creating an album good enough for radio play and touring with his own band. Despite facing challenges and not initially being seen as a leading touring act, his hits 'On My Own' and 'Sweet Freedom' sustained his career, allowing him to gradually build a touring audience while balancing time with his young family.
Struggles with Addiction and Overcoming Perfectionism
Michael McDonald opens up about his struggles with addiction, attributing it to a family history of alcoholism and acknowledging being prone to addiction. He reflects on hitting a low point in his career due to substance abuse, emphasizing the importance of accepting his addiction and taking life one day at a time to stay sober. Additionally, he downplays his reputation as a perfectionist in songwriting, focusing more on creating sincere and relatable music, often waiting for ideas to naturally develop rather than forcing the creative process.
Michael McDonald brought his legendary singing voice and songwriting talent to not one but two legendary bands: Steely Dan and The Doobie Brothers, the latter of which earned him a spot in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Michael sits down with Guy to talk about writing classic songs on envelopes and forgetting about them for years; feeling self-conscious on stage as a frontman; his solo career; what he thinks of the term “yacht rock”; and how getting sober saved his life.
Michael’s memoir is called “What a Fool Believes”. You can buy it here.
Links from the show:
I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near) music video
