On Saturday night, The Doobie Brothers brought their legendary sound to the PPL Center, giving fans a night to “Listen to the Music” as part of their delayed 50th-anniversary tour. The band performed a 25-song set that spanned two hours, showcasing hits from their 1972 album Toulouse Street to their more recent work from 2021’s Liberté and an upcoming release, Walk This Road.
The band’s performance featured four original members and a strong backup ensemble, proving they still have the magic that first captivated audiences. Michael McDonald’s vocals were particularly strong, shining on deep cuts like “Here to Love You” and hits like “You Belong to Me.” Tom Johnston also delivered a standout performance, his voice showing only a hint of age, adding depth to songs like “Rockin’ Down the Highway.”
Fans were treated to nearly all of the band’s classics, including “Take Me in Your Arms” and “Another Park Another Sunday,” with the crowd finally on their feet by the time the band launched into hits like “Jesus is Just Alright” and “What a Fool Believes.”
Though some arrangements felt overproduced, and a few tracks like “It Keeps You Runnin’” lost some impact, the night was a testament to the band’s enduring appeal. By the end of the show, the crowd was left singing and dancing to “Blackwater” and “Listen to the Music,” closing out an unforgettable evening.
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