August 27, 2024 – CHI Health Center – Omaha, NE
On Tuesday night, August 27, 2024, the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska, hosted an unforgettable evening of music as the legendary Doobie Brothers brought their 2024 tour to town.
In case you’re not familiar, The Doobie Brothers are an iconic American rock band that has been delivering classic hits and memorable performances for over five decades. Formed in San Jose, California, in 1970, the band quickly became known for their distinctive blend of rock, soul, and blues, infused with rich harmonies and infectious rhythms.
The band’s early success came with hits like “Listen to the Music,” “China Grove,” and “Long Train Runnin’,” which became staples of the 1970s rock scene. With the addition of Michael McDonald in the mid-70s, their sound evolved to include more R&B influences, leading to massive hits like “What a Fool Believes” and “Takin’ It to the Streets.” “What a Fool Believes” even earned them a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1980.
Over the years, The Doobie Brothers have released a string of successful albums, including Toulouse Street (1972), The Captain and Me (1973), and Minute by Minute (1978), which cemented their place in rock history. The band has sold more than 40 million albums worldwide and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020.
Despite lineup changes over the years, The Doobie Brothers have continued to tour and make music, maintaining their reputation as one of the most enduring and beloved bands in rock. Their live shows are a testament to their timeless appeal, as they continue to connect with both longtime fans and new generations of listeners.
This concert was an unforgettable trip down memory lane, with a setlist that felt like a greatest hits album brought to life. The crowd was a mix of longtime fans who probably grew up with the band and younger folks who’ve discovered their music through their parents or on classic rock playlists.
From the moment the band hit the stage, you could feel the energy in the air. They opened with “Take Me In Your Arms,” and the harmonies were as tight as ever. It was clear that these guys still have it after all these years. Tom Johnston’s vocals were strong, and Patrick Simmons’s guitar work was just as smooth and effortless as you’d expect.
As they played through hits like “Long Train Runnin’” and “China Grove,” it was impossible not to sing along. The band kept the momentum going, mixing in deeper cuts with their big hits, which kept things interesting for the die-hard fans. “Black Water” was a standout moment during their encore, with the crowd echoing the chorus back to the band, creating a communal vibe that’s hard to describe.
Throughout their set, each band member had their moment to shine, and the solos were incredible, especially during “Takin’ It to the Streets.” You could see the joy on their faces, and it was contagious.
The encore was a perfect way to close out the night with “Listen to the Music,” which got everyone up on their feet, dancing and clapping along. It was one of those feel-good concerts where you leave with a smile on your face, humming the tunes all the way home. If you get the chance to see The Doobie Brothers live, don’t pass it up—they’re a band that’s truly stood the test of time.
The Doobie Brothers Setlist:
- Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me a Little While) (Eddie Holland cover)
- Rockin’ Down the Highway
- Dependin’ on You
- You Belong to Me
- Cannonball
- Sweet Maxine
- It Keeps You Runnin’
- Eyes of Silver
- One Step Closer
- World Gone Crazy
- Minute by Minute
- Without You
- Jesus Is Just Alright (The Art Reynolds Singers cover)
- What a Fool Believes (Kenny Loggins cover)
- Long Train Runnin’
- China Grove
Encore
- Black Water
- Amazing Grace
- Takin’ It to the Streets
- Listen to the Music