Album Information:

About The Doobie Brothers:

The Doobie Brothers are an American rock band that formed in San Jose, California in 1970. The band's music incorporates elements of rock, funk, blues, and country.

The original lineup of the band consisted of Tom Johnston (guitar, vocals), Patrick Simmons (guitar, vocals), Dave Shogren (bass), and drummer John Hartman. The band's name was inspired by a friend's suggestion to call themselves the 'Doobie Brothers' because they frequently smoked marijuana.

Their self-titled debut album was released in 1971 and peaked at No. 210 on the Billboard 200 chart. The band's second album, Toulouse Street, released in 1972, spawned their first hit single with 'Listen to the Music.'

However, it was their third album, The Captain and Me, released in 1973, that established them as a major force in rock music. The album featured their biggest hit, 'Long Train Runnin' and also included the hit singles 'China Grove' and 'South City Midnight Lady.' The album hit No. 7 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified double platinum.

In 1974, bassist Tiran Porter replaced Dave Shogren, and the band released its fourth album, What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits. The album included the hit singles 'Black Water' and 'Another Park, Another Sunday' and reached No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart.

The band's next few albums included Stampede (1975), Takin' It to the Streets (1976), and Livin' on the Fault Line (1977). In 1979, the band released the album Minute by Minute, which became one of their most successful albums, selling over 3 million copies and winning four Grammy awards, including Album of the Year. The album featured hits like 'What a Fool Believes' and 'Minute by Minute.'

Throughout the 1980s, the Doobie Brothers experienced multiple lineup changes and a decline in popularity in the music industry. However, the band reunited in 1987 with the lineup of Tom Johnston, Patrick Simmons, Tiran Porter, and Michael Hossack, and released the album Cycles. The album spawned the hit single 'The Doctor,' which reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The Doobie Brothers were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020. As of 2021, the band continues to tour and perform, with longtime members Patrick Simmons and Tom Johnston leading the group.

About the album What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits:

What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits is the fourth studio album by the American rock band The Doobie Brothers, released in 1974. The album features a unique blend of rock, country, and R&B influences that has become synonymous with the band's sound.

The opening track, 'Song to See You Through,' sets a mellow tone with its smooth vocals and laid-back guitar riffs. This is followed by the upbeat and catchy 'Spirit,' which features a driving rhythm section and classic Doobie Brothers harmonies.

Next up is the iconic hit 'Pursuit on 53rd St.,' which showcases the band's versatile musical abilities with its complex melody and intricate instrumental sections. This track features a horn section that adds depth and richness to the sound.

'This Time' and 'You Just Can't Stop It' are both up-tempo rockers, with infectious guitar riffs and strong vocals. 'Echoes of Love' is a standout ballad that highlights the band's ability to convey emotion through their music, with its haunting melody and introspective lyrics.

Other standout tracks include 'Daughters of the Sea,' which features a lively rhythm section and catchy vocal harmonies, and 'Flying Cloud,' a toe-tapping tune with an infectious groove.

Overall, What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits is a masterful collection of songs that showcase The Doobie Brothers' unique blend of musical influences and impeccable musicianship. The album is a must-listen for fans of classic rock and continues to be a beloved favorite among music lovers of all ages.

Members:

Tom Johnston – Tom Johnston was born on August 15, 1948, in Visalia, California. He is the co-founder and lead vocalist/guitarist of The Doobie Brothers. Johnston began playing music at a young age and formed a band called Pud in high school. He joined forces with drummer John Hartman in the late 60s and formed The Doobie Brothers. Johnston wrote and sang lead on some of the band's biggest hits, including 'Listen to the Music,' 'China Grove,' and 'Long Train Runnin.' He left the band in 1977 to pursue a solo career but rejoined in 1987. Johnston continues to tour with The Doobie Brothers today.

Patrick Simmons – Patrick Simmons was born on October 19, 1948, in Aberdeen, Washington. He is a founding member, guitarist, and vocalist of The Doobie Brothers. Simmons started playing music in high school and joined a group called The Beau Brummels. In 1970, he co-founded The Doobie Brothers with Tom Johnston and played guitar, sang backup vocals and contributed to many of the group's biggest hits, including 'Black Water,' 'South City Midnight Lady,' and 'Takin' It to the Streets.' Simmons also pursued a solo career, releasing several albums. He remains a member of The Doobie Brothers to this day.

Michael McDonald – Michael McDonald was born on February 12, 1952, in St. Louis, Missouri. He joined The Doobie Brothers in 1975 as a keyboardist and singer. McDonald was already a well-known session musician, having worked with Steely Dan and other notable artists. He contributed to the band's hit album, 'Takin' it to the Streets' and went on to become one of The Doobie Brothers' most recognizable members. He sang lead on several of the band's biggest hits, including 'What a Fool Believes,' 'Minute by Minute,' and 'Takin' it to the Streets.' McDonald left the band in 1982 to pursue a solo career but has reunited with the group for several tours since then.

Tiran Porter – Tiran Porter was born on September 26, 1948, in Yakima, Washington. He joined The Doobie Brothers in 1971 as the group's bassist. Prior to joining The Doobie Brothers, Porter played with a band called Silver Meteor. He played bass on several of the band's biggest hits, including 'Black Water,' 'China Grove,' and 'Long Train Runnin'.' Porter left The Doobie Brothers in 1980 to pursue a solo career and was replaced by Skylark bassist Willie Weeks.

John Hartman – John Hartman was born on March 18, 1950, in Falls Church, Virginia. He was the original drummer for The Doobie Brothers and co-founded the band with Tom Johnston in the late 60s. Hartman played drums on many of the band's early hits, including 'Listen to the Music,' 'China Grove,' and 'Rockin' Down the Highway.' He left The Doobie Brothers in 1979 to pursue a solo career and was replaced by Chet McCracken.

Track List for What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits:

1. 'Song to See You Through' (4:05) - This track starts with a catchy piano and guitar riff and features soothing vocals. The lyrics are about finding comfort in a loved one during tough times.

2. 'Spirit' (3:15) - The second track is an upbeat rock song with a groovy bassline and harmonizing vocals. The lyrics describe the power of music and its ability to lift one's spirit.

3. 'Pursuit on 53rd St.' (2:32) - This instrumental track features jazzy elements with horns, piano, and drums. The upbeat tempo creates a lively atmosphere.

4. 'Black Water' (4:18) - One of the band's biggest hits, 'Black Water' is a blend of country and rock with memorable harmonies and a standout acoustic guitar intro. The lyrics are about a romantic getaway to the Louisiana bayou.

5. 'Eyes of Silver' (2:57) - This track has a folk-rock feel with acoustic guitar, mandolin, and harmonizing vocals. The lyrics describe a woman with captivating eyes.

6. 'Road Angel' (4:45) - A classic rock-style song with a catchy guitar riff and smooth vocals. The lyrics are about a free-spirited woman who travels the world.

7. 'You Just Can't Stop It' (3:28) - A funky track with a horn section and upbeat tempo. The lyrics are about being unable to resist the allure of love.

8. 'Tell Me What You Want (And I'll Give You What You Need)' (3:52) - A bluesy track with soulful vocals and a groovy guitar riff. The lyrics are about trying to please a lover.

9. 'Down in the Track' (4:19) - A slow bluesy track with a prominent harmonica. The lyrics describe the struggles of a working-class man.

10. 'Another Park, Another Sunday' (4:27) - This track features a melodic piano and guitar intro that builds into an upbeat rock song with powerful vocals. The lyrics describe a heartbreak at a park.

11. 'Daughters of the Sea' (4:35) - The final track on the album is a slow ballad with a delicate piano and strings. The lyrics describe the beauty and strength of women.

Discography for The Doobie Brothers:

Here is the complete discography for The Doobie Brothers in chronological order:

Albums:
1. The Doobie Brothers (1971)
2. Toulouse Street (1972)
3. The Captain and Me (1973)
4. What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits (1974)
5. Stampede (1975)
6. Takin' It to the Streets (1976)
7. Livin' on the Fault Line (1977)
8. Minute by Minute (1978)
9. One Step Closer (1980)
10. Cycles (1989)
11. Brotherhood (1991)
12. Sibling Rivalry (2000)
13. World Gone Crazy (2010)
14. Southbound (2014)

Singles:
1. 'Nobody' (1971)
2. 'Listen to the Music' (1972)
3. 'Jesus Is Just Alright' (1972)
4. 'Long Train Runnin' (1973)
5. 'China Grove' (1973)
6. 'Another Park, Another Sunday' (1974)
7. 'Eyes of Silver' (1974)
8. 'Black Water' (1974)
9. 'Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me)' (1975)
10. 'Sweet Maxine' (1976)
11. 'Takin' It to the Streets' (1977)
12. 'It Keeps You Runnin' (1977)
13. 'Little Darlin' (I Need You)' (1979)
14. 'What a Fool Believes' (1979)
15. 'Minute by Minute' (1979)
16. 'Dependin' on You' (1980)
17. 'Real Love' (1980)
18. 'One Step Closer' (1980)
19. 'Wynken, Blynken & Nod' (1982)
20. 'Dangerous' (1991)
21. 'Rollin' On' (1991)
22. 'Divided Highway' (2000)
23. 'People Gotta Love Again' (2010)
24. 'World Gone Crazy' (2010)

Other Releases:
1. The Doobie Brothers in Concert (1976)
2. Best of The Doobies (1976)
3. Best of The Doobies Volume II (1981)
4. Far From Home (1996)
5. Greatest Hits (2001)
6. Long Train Runnin': 1970-2000 (2000)
7. Live at Wolf Trap (2004)
8. The Very Best of The Doobie Brothers (2007)
9. Extended Versions (2007)
10. Live at the Greek Theatre 1982 (2011)
11. Icon (2011)
12. The Doobie Brothers: Live at the Beacon Theatre (2019)