Why “What A Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers Still Resonates Today

“What A Fool Believes” is a soft rock treasure by The Doobie Brothers. Written by Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins, this song captures the bittersweet emotions of nostalgia and missed opportunities in love.

The song became an instant success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and eventually winning Grammy Awards for Song of the Year and Record of the Year in 1980. Its unique blend of heartfelt lyrics, soaring vocals, and catchy keyboard riffs cemented it as one of the definitive soft rock tracks of the late 1970s.

The magic of Michael McDonald’s smooth, soulful voice, paired with the band’s polished production, created a sound that stood out from their earlier, more rock-oriented works. “What A Fool Believes” also marked a pivotal moment for the group, showcasing their evolution and versatility as artists.

What A Fool Believes

Michael McDonald co-wrote “What A Fool Believes” with Kenny Loggins. Loggins also recorded his own version of the song for his 1978 album Nightwatch.

The song is often cited as a perfect example of the Yacht Rock genre—a style blending smooth jazz, R&B, and soft rock sounds popular in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s.

“What A Fool Believes” is one of the few non-disco tracks to reach No.1 during the disco-dominated era of the late 1970s.

The song’s lyrics describe a man who tries to rekindle a past relationship, only to realize the emotional connection was mostly in his own mind—a theme that resonated deeply with audiences.

In 2020, The Doobie Brothers were finally inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, with Michael McDonald joining the reunion lineup for the honor.

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