Michael McDonald is one of those artists that just seems to have flown under the radar for most of his career. He’s the type of person that would probably actually prefer that but his accomplishments over that past forty years speaks volumes about where his priorities truly are.
We sat down with Michael during his current tour to discuss his career, the state of the music business, his wife and sons newest LP’s and much more. He was especially proud of his wife’s (Amy Holland) new album “Light on My Path. ” and his son’s new LP. (Dylan McDonald and the Avians) This musical family of artists leaves no doubt about where their heading.
Even after performing and touring all these years, he just refuses to slow down. His current band is comprised of seasoned top tier musicians and includes: Bernie Chiaravalle, (Guitar / Vocals) Dan Needham, (Drums) Drea Rhenee’, (Vocals) Mark Douthit, (Sax / Keyboards) Pat Coil, (Hammond B-3) and Jacob Lowery. (Bass and Vocals) These cats sound awesome and are a great fit for this amazing artist.
Michael, a Multi-Platinum, 5 time Grammy award winner Singer / Songwriter, (Michael has just been nominated for induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame) started right off the bat with his signature hits “MINUTE BY MINUTE,” “KEEP FORGETTIN,” “SWEET FREEDOM” and just kept getting stronger as the night unfolded. The crowd was up on their feet throughout most of his performance, singing, dancing and flashing back to where they were at when those songs were dominating the airwaves. I admit I was doing the same thing. Even with The Doobie Brothers hits, the songs he sang for Steely Dan and his solo hits, you forget how many great songs he has composed .
If you are a fan of his solo work, The Doobie Brothers or Steely Dan, you need to get out and see Michael perform on his current tour. Also check out Amy and Dylan’s music. It stands on its own merits and will amaze you. You may even be lucky enough to catch the whole family playing together at some of the upcoming shows.
Check out the family website’s for all the shows and details their new music and info on Michael’s new LP coming out later this year.: Michael McDonald – Amy Holland – Dylan McDonald
RocmanRocks / BackStage360
Images: Brian Tierney / BackStage360
WATCH OUR INTERVIEW WITH MICHAEL:
(Editors Note: You can vote for Michael’s induction to the 2016 Sonwriters Hall of Fame)