Michael McDonald (musician)

For other people named Michael McDonald, see Michael McDonald (disambiguation).

Michael McDonald
McDonald performing live in 2019
Background information
Born (1952-02-12) February 12, 1952 (age 72)
St. Louis, Missouri, U.S.
Genres
Occupations
  • Musician
  • singer
  • songwriter
  • record producer
Instruments
  • Vocals
  • keyboards
Years active1973–present
Labels
Member ofThe Doobie Brothers
Formerly of
Websitemichaelmcdonald.com

Michael H. McDonald (born February 12, 1952) is an American singer, keyboardist and songwriter known for his distinctive, soulful voice and as a member of Steely Dan (1973–1974), and the Doobie Brothers (1975–1982, 1987, 2019–present). McDonald wrote and sang several hit singles with the Doobie Brothers, including "What a Fool Believes", "Minute by Minute", and "Takin' It to the Streets." McDonald has also performed as a prominent backing vocalist on numerous recordings by artists including Steely Dan, Toto, Christopher Cross, and Kenny Loggins.

McDonald's solo career consists of nine studio albums and a number of singles, including the 1982 hit "I Keep Forgettin' (Every Time You're Near)". During his career, McDonald has collaborated with a number of other artists, including James Ingram, David Cassidy, Van Halen, Patti LaBelle, Twinkie Clark, Lee Ritenour, The Winans, Aretha Franklin, Toto, Grizzly Bear,[2] Joni Mitchell, and Thundercat.[3] He has also recorded for television and film soundtracks.

McDonald is the recipient of five Grammy Awards,[4] and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Doobie Brothers in 2020.[5]

  1. ^ Harvey, Eric (June 25, 2014). "How Michael McDonald, The Affable Captain Of Yacht Rock, Lost His Voice". Deadspin. Retrieved April 19, 2021.
  2. ^ Breihan, Tom (September 2009). "Michael McDonald Spills About Working with Grizzly Bear". Pitchfork. Retrieved September 1, 2009.
  3. ^ "Michael McDonald Credits". AllMusic. Retrieved March 19, 2016.
  4. ^ "Michael McDonald | Artist | GRAMMY.com". grammy.com. Retrieved August 16, 2024.
  5. ^ "The Doobie Brothers". Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Retrieved January 15, 2020.