Jesus Is Just Alright

Zoo Freaks, your hippie DJs at THE ZOO are groovin’ to Jesus Is Just Alright by The Doobie Brothers from their 1972 album Toulouse Street! This tune’s got a righteous vibe, but here’s the wild twist: it’s not a Doobies original. Written by Arthur Reid Reynolds and first recorded by The Art Reynolds Singers in 1966, it was a gospel gem before The Byrds rocked it in ’69. The Doobies caught wind of The Byrds’ version, cranked up the guitars, and made it their own, hitting #35 on the Billboard Hot 100 in ’73. Their arrangement leans heavy on The Byrds’ vibe, with those dual drummers—John Hartman and Michael Hossack—laying down a beat that’s pure magic. Fans on Songfacts love its Allman Brothers-esque organ and have debated its meaning for years—some thought it was sarcastic, others felt the soulful conviction. Either way, it’s a staple on classic rock radio and live Doobies sets, from Farewell Tour to Live at Wolf Trap.

Now, let’s rewind to how The Doobie Brothers got rollin’. Picture San Jose, California, 1970: a band called Pud, a country-rock outfit with Tom Johnston on guitar and vocals and John Hartman on drums, fizzles out. They team up with bassist Dave Shogren and guitarist Patrick Simmons, jamming in the Bay Area. A slang term for a joint inspires their name—yep, “Doobie” was the vibe. They built a following among Hell’s Angels and local crowds, landing a deal with Warner Bros. in ’70. Their debut album flopped, but they didn’t quit. For Toulouse Street, they swapped Shogren for Tiran Porter, added drummer Michael Hossack, and brought in producer Ted Templeman. The result? A polished mix of rock, folk, and R&B that broke through with hits like Listen to the Music and our tune today. Over five decades, they’ve sold over 40 million albums, snagged a Grammy for Minute by Minute, and kept evolving with members like Michael McDonald and Jeff “Skunk” Baxter.

Want to keep up with The Doobie Brothers? Check their official site at thedoobiebrothers.com for tour dates and news. They’re vibin’ on socials too: follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X for throwbacks, live clips, and updates. Zoo Freaks, you can also join fan communities like the Doobie Brothers Fan Club on Facebook to connect with fellow devotees sharing setlists, memories, and more. Spin this track loud and keep the Doobie love alive!