Five-Time Grammy Winning Musician, Singer, Songwriter & Keyboardist; Known for Bands "Doobie Brothers" and "Steely Dan"

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Michael McDonald Biography

Michael McDonald is a singer, songwriter, and keyboardist known for his soulful baritone and influence in pop, rock, and R&B music. McDonald joined the Doobie Brothers as a temporary replacement for lead vocalist Tom Johnston, but his contributions led to a permanent role, shifting the band's sound toward a smooth, soulful R&B style.

McDonald wrote and performed several hit singles with the Doobie Brothers, including "What a Fool Believes," "Minute by Minute," "Takin' It to the Streets," "Real Love," and "It Keeps You Runnin'." "What a Fool Believes" reached number one on the U.S. charts and earned McDonald a Grammy Award for Song of the Year, co-written with Kenny Loggins. The "Minute by Minute" album garnered four Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year and Record of the Year. McDonald has also contributed as a backing vocalist on recordings by Steely Dan, Toto, Christopher Cross, and Kenny Loggins.

Following his tenure with the Doobie Brothers, McDonald established a solo career, producing hits as a solo artist, in duets, and on film soundtracks. His debut album, "If That's What It Takes," features the hit single "I Keep Forgettin' (Every Time You're Near)," which reached the Top 10 on the U.S. R&B charts. The duet "On My Own" with Patti LaBelle reached number one on the U.S. charts, and "Ya Mo Be There," a collaboration with James Ingram, earned McDonald a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. His solo work spans pop, R&B, and smooth jazz, including two albums of Motown covers. McDonald also recorded a duet with Ray Charles on "Genius Loves Company."

McDonald has received five Grammy Awards and 15 Grammy nominations throughout his career. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Doobie Brothers and received an Honorary Doctorate of Music from Berklee College of Music. McDonald, along with Tom Johnston and Patrick Simmons, was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in the Performing Songwriters category.

The Doobie Brothers' album Walk This Road marked McDonald's return to the band, collaborating with Patrick Simmons, Tom Johnston, and John McFee. The title track, featuring Mavis Staples, reflects themes of hope and togetherness. With a career spanning more than five decades, McDonald's work continues to influence and resonate with audiences in the music industry.

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Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 10/05/2026.

Michael McDonald Videos

Michael McDonald - "Wide Open" Trailer - YouTube

Michael McDonald - "Wide Open" Trailer - YouTube

Uploaded by Michael McDonald on 2017-07-21.

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  • What topics does Michael McDonald speak about?

    Michael McDonald is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Celebrity, Music, Virtual
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Michael McDonald is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book Michael McDonald for your event is available upon request. Michael McDonald generally travels from and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are KC and the Sunshine Band, Colbie Caillat, Jordin Sparks, Aloe Blacc and The Wallflowers. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Michael McDonald for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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