Tom Johnston of the Doobie Brothers reflects on a life-changing performance by James Brown
The iconic band, The Doobie Brothers, recently marked a significant milestone by being inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. This momentous occasion was celebrated with a powerful performance in New York City on June 12, 2025. Despite their long and illustrious career spanning over five decades, the group continues to captivate audiences with their timeless classic rock sound and the enduring message of their hit song, “Listen to the Music.”
As part of their ongoing Walk This Road tour, The Doobie Brothers are scheduled to perform at the Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati on Sept. 12. This tour supports their latest album of the same name, which is their first new release in over 40 years. The lineup for the 2025 tour includes original members Patrick Simmons, Tom Johnston, John McFee, and Michael McDonald, who reunited in 2021 for a special 50th-anniversary tour. Now, four years later, they have returned to the spotlight with fresh music and a renewed passion for performing.
In an exclusive interview with The Enquirer, guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter Tom Johnston shared insights into the Walk This Road tour and album, shedding light on the band’s creative process and enduring legacy. Johnston expressed excitement about the tour’s innovative setlist, which includes four tracks from the new album—a departure from their usual practice of featuring only one or two new songs. Surprisingly, audiences have embraced these new tracks, such as “Walk This Road,” “Learn to Let Go,” “Call Me,” and “Angels and Mercy,” alongside the classic hits that fans know and love.
The creation of “Walk This Road” marked a significant collaboration between The Doobie Brothers and acclaimed producer John Shanks, who also co-wrote all the songs on the album. Shanks, known for his successful work in the music industry, brought a fresh perspective to the project, guiding the band through the creative process with a keen focus on capturing their signature sound while infusing new elements and musical ideas.
As The Doobie Brothers continue to evolve and reinvent themselves, their dedication to producing quality music remains unwavering. With a rich history of chart-topping hits and a loyal fan base spanning generations, the band’s enduring legacy is a testament to their talent, passion, and commitment to delivering memorable performances that resonate with audiences worldwide.
In conclusion, The Doobie Brothers’ induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the release of their latest album, “Walk This Road,” serve as poignant reminders of the band’s enduring influence on the music industry. As they embark on the next chapter of their legendary career, fans can expect to be treated to a blend of classic hits and new tracks that showcase The Doobie Brothers’ timeless appeal and unwavering dedication to creating music that stands the test of time.