Obsession Blues

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Obsession Blues" by Michael McDonald from his 2000 album Blue Obsession, and Zoo Freaks, you're in for a soulful treat! This track, co-written with guitarist Bernie Chiaravalle, is a gritty rock-blues number that showcases McDonald's signature husky baritone. One piece of trivia about the song comes from fan discussions on platforms like Amazon, where listeners praise its raw energy and Chiaravalle’s standout guitar work, calling it one of the album’s hidden gems. Some fans even expressed surprise that it didn’t become a bigger hit, given its powerful delivery and relatable lyrics about longing and excess. The song’s narrative, with lines like “How can I have too much of somethin’ I can’t get enough of?”, paints a vivid picture of a man grappling with desire, reportedly inspired by McDonald’s reflections on personal struggles, though he’s kept specific details private in interviews.

Another tidbit about "Obsession Blues" emerges from its production context. According to a 2000 Los Angeles Times interview, Blue Obsession was the first release from Ramp Records, a label McDonald co-founded with actor Jeff Bridges and producer Chris Pelonis. The album, initially released as a promo in 1997 but officially launched in 2000, marked McDonald’s return after a seven-year gap, and "Obsession Blues" was one of four tracks crafted with Chiaravalle, giving it a distinct Steely Dan-esque vibe. Fans on the Doobie Brothers & Michael McDonald Fans Facebook group often highlight how the song’s raw, unpolished feel contrasts with McDonald’s smoother Motown covers, making it a favorite for those who love his edgier side.

Michael McDonald’s journey to becoming a soul-rock icon began in Ferguson, Missouri, where he was born on February 12, 1952. Growing up, he was immersed in Broadway tunes, R&B, and British Invasion sounds, forming his first band, Mike and the Majestics, in high school. His big break came in 1970 when he was discovered playing with the group Blue in St. Louis and moved to Los Angeles. There, he honed his skills as a session vocalist and keyboardist, landing a pivotal gig with Steely Dan in 1973. In a 2016 interview, McDonald recalled throwing his piano into his Pinto and driving to audition for Steely Dan, winning the spot not for his keyboard chops but for his ability to hit high vocal parts. This led to his role as a backing vocalist on albums like Katy Lied and Aja, setting the stage for his rise to fame.

McDonald’s career skyrocketed when he joined The Doobie Brothers in 1975, initially as a temporary replacement for Tom Johnston. His soulful vocals and gospel-inflected keyboard style transformed the band’s sound, leading to hits like “What a Fool Believes” and “Takin’ It to the Streets.” After the Doobies disbanded in 1982, McDonald launched a solo career with his debut album If That’s What It Takes, featuring the hit “I Keep Forgettin’.” His collaborations with artists like Patti LaBelle, James Ingram, and Toto further cemented his status as a blue-eyed soul legend. Today, he continues to tour with The Doobie Brothers and release solo work, earning five Grammy Awards along the way.

For more on Michael McDonald, check out his official website for tour dates and updates. Follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and X for behind-the-scenes content and fan interactions. Fans can also connect on the Doobie Brothers & Michael McDonald Fans Facebook group or visit fan sites like AllMusic for detailed discographies and reviews. Zoo Freaks, keep grooving to "Obsession Blues" and dive into McDonald’s soulful legacy!