Michael McDonald: Tiny Desk (Home) Concert

The Tiny Desk is working from home for the foreseeable future. Introducing NPR Music's Tiny Desk (Home) Concerts, bringing you performances from across the country and the world. It's the same spirit - stripped-down sets, an intimate setting - just a different space.
April 1, 2020 | Bobby Carter -- After five-time Grammy winner Michael McDonald finished "Matters Of The Heart," the opening song in his Tiny Desk (home) concert, there was a brief pause. The bewilderment on his face was unmistakable. It's a look I believe we all can relate to in this moment of uncertainty. He sat in his home studio, complete with an illustration of the Tiny Desk drawn by Mr. McDonald himself. That pause, usually reserved for the anticipated applause, was replaced by complete silence.
The 2020 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee then proceeded to play two 1978 Doobie Brothers classics that showcase his still-golden voice: "Minute By Minute" and "What A Fool Believes." "If you know the words, sing along with me at home," he said. "I won't know if you're singing well or not because I can't hear you here."
I sang along, and so will you.
SET LIST
"Matters Of The Heart"
"Minute By Minute"
"What A Fool Believes"

[@nprmusic]

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[@meecob]

This guy never ceases to amaze me. Just watched the Rick Beato interview. So skilled yet so humble. Mic check 123

[@ralex3697]

Same here

[@Metragnome_Images]

Totally agree... so self depracating.

[@robertsearing6232]

That brought me here too.

[@mdarrenu]

@@Metragnome_Images totally.

[@tilatsiddiqui3969]

Discerning public can see That is clearly Rick beato aka also rofffchild who has been deliberately gaslighting the public by Masquerading as Michael McDonald for decades, allegedly?

[@eddieg1230]

Please keep this man bubble wrapped until this is all over. How can you not love his music...

[@mnmillard]

Love this guy!

[@tinonie100]

Man This dudes music has helped me through a lot of troubles and alot of good times. ✊🏽🙏🏽💯 Thank you!!!

[@abcdefghjjklmnop]

It'll never b over.

[@sharonisaac445]

Absolutely 💯❤

[@drbrimarriedanerdyengineer2312]

Yes 🙌🏾

[@TheLazarusLynchShow]

They don't make em like they use to! Michael McDonald is a legend!!

[@genesisthepoet815]

It’s 2024… reflecting back on a time when entertainers like this stripped their music down raw to keep spirits high during the pandemic ❤ such a beautiful performance 👌🏽

[@user-fb3vd8yn5i]

A national treasure.

[@tomryan6461]

A worldwide treasure.

[@ElliottCook2002]

Everyone else here's commenting on Michael's incredibly strong vocals - I'm just as impressed by his sophisticated gospel-tinged playing. I had no idea he was such an incredible pianist, those introductions on the opening track and his overall accompaniment on Minute By Minute were otherworldly - so unique whilst somehow hanging together. This has really made my day, thanks NPR and Michael

[@nprmusic]

Hi John! Thanks so much for your thoughtful comment, and thanks so much for watching!

[@Baribrotzer]

The Doobie Bros. hired him JUST as a keyboard player (and probably as a harmony vocalist). They even didn't realize that he wrote songs - and very good songs - until they thought to ask him, when he had already been in the group for a while, if he had any songs. He didn't play keyboards on record with Steely Dan because Donald Fagen had that job covered. And as to his voice - Trevor Noah commented thusly on some of Kanye West's crazier opinions and pronouncements: "Hey, white people! You want Kanye? You can have him; we'll just take Michael McDonald in trade."

[@morganthedruid1]

@@Baribrotzer I love that Noah quote. This guy is, well you can't quantify him to West, you can't say he's 20 West's because they don't work on the same plain.

[@katherinehall4200]

I wish you could have heard him at GroundUp Music Fest in Miami in Feb. His set with members of Snarky Puppy was the highlight of the weekend for me.

[@TheMisterGriswold]

He downplays his piano skills in interviews. But I agree, his playing is really special. Love the guy!

[@jarfrobinksss]

Think of today's singer/songwriters, and then watch this....no comparison. Let's all appreciate every day we have with these living legends while we can, because once they're gone, so is music as we used to know it.

[@carrolllaw]

Great performer and a great guy. I remember hearing him perform on the radio - probably 15-20 years ago and sent an email to his website to ask what kind of keyboard he was using. A day or two later, I got an email back from Michael himself and we chatted back and forth for a couple days, talking about music. Super nice guy and one of the best singer/piano players ever!

[@Scooby_Doobie_Doo]

And today on this definitely didn't happen

[@Luvurselffirst]

What a memory. Thanks for sharing

[@TheNomaer]

Just watched Rick Beato interview. The piano in Minute by Minute just screams to me to get back on my keyboards and relearn this awesome song with some of his embellishments. Loved Michael from day one of hearing his unique tone. 😎😎😎😎😎😎❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@cocoachunky9619]

Jesus. Few musicians can play chords and rhythms like that while giving it their all vocally. And especially still at 68 years old! Imagine him in his prime. What a legend

[@michaelspillman7249]

I saw him then he was truly great and he's gotten better since then. He remembers the lyrics to stuff now and his piano playing is far more sophisticated than in earlier times. God bless him!

[@debbymabalcon2789]

I loved him so much when i was younger and i just found him again im so glad his still sings TAKES me back to HAPPY places thanks Michael😍👍🌟💖💥

[@dgmgneco1516]

TRULY A GREAT ONE

[@rieske2000]

I think he is even better now. Harmonies are even more beautiful and his voice is still so amazing!

[@rosslynemrys5829]

68 ain't old, please...98 is old;)

[@tomryan6461]

What a player, what a voice! An absolute living legend. Thank you Mike 🙏❤

[@heartpath1]

The lack of production and recording fidelity only adds to the quality of Michael’s voice, playing, and writing. What a gem of a dude!

[@SeattleBurns]

Michael McDonald singlehandedly lifted us out of the pandemic with this Tiny Desk session. No one better!

[@wilmaallen9872]

Minute by minute my night shift keeps me holding on.......... thanks Mr. McDonald.

[@perseverance80]

When the chords of Minute By Minute started, the goosebumps and my age sat in good and deep and I said "My God." 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@gregtheos9309]

Everyone knows what a great vocalist Michael is, but few recognize his keyboard skills. He is a monster pianist with a heavy jazz influence. If Michael could not sing a note he would still have been a top-tier studio musician.

[@daryljohnson3896]

i hear a heavy gospel influence, especially in minute by minute.

[@DirkJongen]

We need this now, more than ever.

[@shawnahoward2768]

Yes we do,i wish other singers would put on these concerts like jonas brothers Stevie wonder

[@shawnahoward2768]

Thanks for the support we do that would be awesome!!!!! Someone needs to send this to Jonas brothers,and others.

[@jasonpierson9829]

Yes we do

[@dootsmasta]

...and now. America will find love and understanding to overcome the hate and difference. We need to listen to the stories of those who are suffering today, share the music, and keep fighting the good fight.

[@samandwillamandjackandlivi4038]

Absolutely 💯agree

[@mrtyreus0]

His name might be ubiquitous, but as a pianist and overall artist, he's completely underated.

[@MrRizsanyi]

That's right, doesn't matter what he's singing, long as he's singing. One of my life's most incredible gifts, being able to listen to Michael. Thank you Jesus, thank you lord.

[@TheSubwaysurfer]

He’s one of the few vocalist I listen to where it really doesn’t matter what he’s singing, as long as he is singing. His voice is all that matters.

[@bryinthe6197]

Michael McDonald singing What a Fool Believes on April Fool's Day. It's good to be alive.

[@pmanfitness]

What a generous musical spirit. He’s played these tunes thousands of times and he still fills them with musical creativity and honesty. Really moving to watch.

[@MsMsmak]

He sounds like he's sitting in my living room playing and singing. Just like having a neighbor stop in and sit down and sing. Perfect. Absolutely perfect.

[@KymAtHome]

Could u imagine being his neighbor!?! Wowzers

[@michaelmcdonald4190]

Thanks for your love and support I'll love to talk to you more better. kindly send a direct message [phone]

[@zmoorern]

Good grief, Michael’s key work is out of this world.

[@heartsvelte9503]

So glad that Tiny Desk is continuing despite everything that is going on in the world!

[@Big2Planker]

Dance Dogma 💯 agree. This is fantastic and much needed!

[@theveeshowhere]

Dance Dogma Yes!!!

[@sugarfreeshanita9606]

I feel the same! 💖

[@MsAKALady]

That intro was so necessary this morning. 🙏🏽

[@Baby1Jazzi2Geri3]

Having chills hearing Michael's voice. In my long lifetime , he will always be a rare jewel to be treasured.❤

[@chiefrueve1822]

Fell in love with his soulful voice decades ago. He still has it. His musicianship is greatest. His talent God-given! Thanks for the concert.

[@deadredeyes]

Opening with Ode To Joy? Beautiful! Such a comforting voice at such anxious and troubled times. Thank you, Michael.

[@kathleenthompson8134]

deadredeyes, right? The opening strains of Beethoven stopped me in my tracks. Much gratitude to all.

[@russellzauner]

Yeah, but if after being cooped up like this you didn't start audibly whooping at 11:30 you're already dead inside

[@lupash]

wonderfully harmonized too

[@simes205]

The Voice.

[@meredithwood495]

How have I not seen this before?! I could listen to his voice ALL day long every day and not get tired of it! Every time I hear him it transports me back in time and I love every minute of it! 🥰🤩

[@Godsave_reborn]

Lord help me , we all deal with matters of the heart Beautiful , we love you Michael for touching our spirits God bliss

[@pillowpat]

best part of quarantine so far

[@jptaylor]

Forever a legend. Brilliant vocalist, composer and keyboardist. A true and unique artist in every sense of the word. They don’t make ‘em like this anymore, and never will again.

[@paulzimmerman6743]

John, I was going to comment....but your every word captured my thoughts about the incomparable Michael McDonald....thank you and thank you Michael!

[@emilycurran3678]

You should check out Jacob Collier for a modern iteration of an amazing vocalist, composer, keyboardist... and also arranger, bassist, percussionist, video editor... he is incredible. There are many amazing contemporary musicians out there these days!

[@jptaylor]

@@emilycurran3678 Yes, Collier is very talented, has lots of chops, dexterity and harmonic command. Lots of notes. McDonald is not as "notey", but much more soulful, and his style is a classic one. He's instantly recognizable. His songs are singable, memorable, and much more accessible by most. Collier, being the young lad that he is, will need more time and musical output before he's a classic like McDonald. Modern isn't always instantly "better". But Collier is very talented and plays lot of notes, chords, and does so very speedily. Something to be said for that.

[@debbymabalcon2789]

Amen😍❤

[@jas_bataille]

@@jptaylor I love McDonald, his songs told me how to sing, I have a never ending admiration for him. But you need to stop right there and listen to Collier's Little Blue as well as many of piano voice performances, especially is cover of Fix you by Coldplay is incredibly moving. He is more than capable of such level of soulfullness and songwriting, yet people still seem uncapable out actually stopping their prejudice that he must always be doing a lot of "speedy notes"... people said that same about Zappa, ya know? The guy is composing music from crowds singing at his shows... and has had Herbie Hancock listening from day one! I think it's fair to say you're making a big mistake if you think that he's just "plays a lot of notes chords and does so very speedily" - he has as far from a shredder as one could think. Michael himself, I'm certain of it, would agree. Every generation say "no artist of this level will ever exist", and it was always as old as it was today. The difference is that someone like McDonald would never say such a thing because a true artist always recognize that the spirit never dies and carry on... always

[@jerryneill6773]

Michael Still Sounds like when I first heard Him Years ago.

[@TheSubwaysurfer]

He’s not singing with that voice, he’s preaching a vocal sermon in the congregation is in awe

[@timbassett2333]

Just wow. A privilege to be in his home.

[@cakredi4132]

I keep forgettin' that he has never been in Tiny Desk before.

[@bt8593]

I keep forgettin' the economy will never be the same again

[@lukedblair]

I keep forgettin’ ...

[@p.reneeblue7799]

😂🤣😂

[@samw9796]

REGULATORS!!!!!!

[@bernlin2000]

What a strange time to finally come on board...but I especially appreciate his voice in these times

[@Sonnylintag]

All these years, that voice is still out of this world

[@TMYPiscesSunandMoonRising5548]

Best 15 minutes of my Sunday. 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽❤❤❤. I'm a 70's baby and grew up on the Dobbie Brothers.

[@michaelmcdonald4190]

Thanks for your love and support I'll love to talk to you more better. kindly send a direct message [phone]

[@robertphillips2642]

What you know about that?!

[@nw504]

What a true gift! When you stay true to your gift. He officially holds "a black church card". 👏

[@juliebrant254]

You are SOOO right,he's the most soulful white singer ever.. ❤

[@seasonedveteran7732]

I’m a songwriter who focuses mostly on world class melodies. What a fool believes is a particularly mysterious one to me. Nothing else like it.

[@robertorepper2536]

🤔 you're so right, listen Miraculous Jack of Gino vanelli, it's like puting togheter joinfull and a Big snif of coke..

[@jamesbrown6841]

He sang backing vocals on more songs then most can count. I think it a song for Steely Dan that he had to do a three part with himself. He speaks of how hard it was to hear himself and go just above and just below so they could lay them over each other to get what they wanted.

[@ronwatson1462]

The man is a national treasure, still giving us the soundtrack of our lives

[@concretevol]

I don't know how I just found this but I sure am glad I did.

[@robertomusitano4238]

His voice is still amazing

[@julandazachary2776]

Superb

[@UKLeonie]

Isn't it just

[@paulinechapman9319]

Roberto Musitano ...why so surprised...this man will never lose his gift..❤️❤️🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@matteo.franklin]

Truly a living legend, God bless him

[@beckymccain9293]

Such an unique voice, I forgot how much I’ve missed hearing him

[@michaelmcdonald4190]

Thanks for your love and support I'll love to talk to you more better. kindly send a direct message [phone]

[@karlawade8310]

I appreciate you and your gift of soulful music!💖

[@kimcousins9193]

Please tell me that I'm not the only one with tears streaming. 🥹 His voice is taking me there.

[@caroleason5394]

I’m here too 😢

[@nealklein3181]

Also takes me there A place where Sound touches sustain pedals Feelings go reeling Holding and fading. A voice bubbles up Singing rhythmic beats Where Tears and smiles Are welcome and waiting 😊

[@trollingisasport]

Me too. I orgasmed as well.

[@bloodsugar2low]

same with me...

[@cillamoke]

Wow!! What a privilege to share the shame time on earth with Mr Micheal McDonald. What a beautiful, talented man xx

[@annelowevoicegeneration]

I LOVE Micheal McDonald. He has always been a massive musical inspiration to me. How privileged are we all?!

[@michaelmcdonald1247]

Hello Anna! How're you doing? Your comments caught my attention and that is why I am reaching out to you. Your fan love for me warms my heart, Thank you! It's nice meeting you here.

[@helenwatkinson681]

Very

[@MrDsmith1959]

Thanks For Everything

[@heartstrings110]

How did I miss this LEGEND?!!🔥

[@tobemeis2bfree]

I’m thankful for your gift Sir!!!

[@scottrusling]

I love how the tone of his voice is so ‘wide’ , it’s hard to describe but it’s beautiful

[@srbbd6890]

This man’s gift is a treasure ❤❤❤ Thanks Mr McDonald!

[@michaelmcdonald1247]

Hello! How're you doing? Your comments caught my attention and that is why I am reaching out to you. Your fan love for me warms my heart, Thank you! It's nice meeting you here.

[@patrickvankeuren9082]

I have been in love with him since the 70s.

[@helenwatkinson681]

Me too

[@cavalyrics420]

we still love u in 2022. rehearing ur music again this year kept me going.

[@bruceheying4072]

Thank you so much MM! We’ve loved you for years!

[@Luvurselffirst]

I see people coming into the sanctuary, taking their seats, waving hello, smiling and listening while watching the choir then pastor enter

[@magnetoclash]

Could there be a better voice for making you feel so good? No way.

[@ZioEnzo]

This channel reminds me that America is so diverse and complex. Beautiful!

[@michaelmcdonald4190]

Thanks for your love and support I'll love to talk to you more better. kindly send a direct message [phone]

[@liamrdavidson]

Doesnt it ..so good

[@jimarmenia8629]

I have enjoyed this man’s brilliant piano playing and vocals since the Doobie Brothers days but it’s been his solo stuff that truly blows me away. Listening to Michael McDonald is like going to church. He sings from the depth of his soul and plays piano the same way. Truly inspirational.

[@Chrissykayokay]

I’m not crying. You are!! 😭

[@reflectiononthesea9153]

yep!

[@monisolaelliott9346]

Will forever love this man's music. Currently learning "I keep forgetting" on the piano. Thank you for blessing us with your talents and Thank you Tiny Desk.

[@Forliferoyalsfan4444]

Did you get sheet music? And if is where?

[@monisolaelliott9346]

RoyalsFan 4 I’m learning the song from a site called HD piano.

[@Forliferoyalsfan4444]

Monisola Elliott thank you!! I will go check them out

[@astrallyte6753]

After all these yrs, still sound the same👌🏾👌🏾

[@catherinekilfeather6254]

Loved the introduction to Minute by Minute where the improv chords give way and you hear just a taste of the minute music and then it disappears again. 7.25 - 7.30. It's like a fish becoming visible just beneath the surface and then it's gone. It's these details.....absolutely loved that.

[@michaelmcdonald1247]

Hello Catherine! How're you doing? Your comments caught my attention and that is why I am reaching out to you. Your fan love for me warms my heart, Thank you! It's nice meeting you here.

[@BassByTheBay]

Hey Catherine, aren't you glad that some low-life scammer is pretending to be Michael McDonald and is baiting you for no apparent reason? Yeah, me neither. Think I'll report "him" now.

[@TheSubwaysurfer]

“There’s nothing a fool can’t get used to “love that lyric. It seems like the sequel song to what a fool believes.

[@donnickson9211]

This is REAL music!

[@206legend3]

One of the greatest singers nobody talks about

[@DamnWow]

I mean, I miss the desk, but these from home recordings are so great

[@nprmusic]

We miss the desk, too! But it's been so special to have musicians invite us into their space! Glad you are enjoying it as well!

[@peterfitzp]

That Montage would never fit on the desk anyway...!! Michael still has the voice...and the chops

[@midsouthmusictherapy]

I mean, seriously... does it get better than this?!?!?! Do we really deserve Michael McDonald?? 😊

[@cmopro]

LOVE YOU MAN LOVE YOU...I was singing and playing along with you....

[@fincavigia142]

He’s still got it !!!

[@edwardwright7295]

I'm convinced his nickname is soulful.

[@ahall6157]

Greetings, Tiny Desk this gentleman here IS EVERYTHING! Many thanks to you for gifting us with this one! Micheal, we continue to love you.

[@NamathCB]

Eddie Veder had a buddy at a MSG show who was celebrating a birthday. He requested Taking it to the Streets 😆. GREAT REQUEST but for Ed it was a matter of trying to cover one of the GREATS of our time. Great tribute to a very deserving Man. Rock on Micheal, we LOVE YOU MAN! One of the most important voices of my youth. How can you not be Happy and nostalgic listening to him do his thing. WOW

[@snycnicesla1486]

Quarantined 4th week in xx Thank you Sir 🇺🇸🇮🇪🙏🏽❤ We Earth 🌍 need this ! God Bless you all xx

[@andrebotha8758]

Student days in the early seventies: Doobie Brothers, dope, Southern Comfort and sun.

[@JoseRamirez-rq2gj]

Doobie Brothers in the early seventies were fronted by Tom Johnston.

[@25447carepear]

And the OJAYS!!

[@wildrosecece]

Reo Speedwagon

[@EboJ13]

A freaking Legend! THE Michael McDonald's voice is a fave of mine. This is awesome. Thank you all!

[@reneefairley3765]

Bravo!!! In 2023!! Heading full steam ahead to2024 Gods speed!

[@NSiya84]

I have loved this mans voice and music for years. I am happy to see and hear that he is still very well and healthy. His voice is still 💯🔥 Thank you for doing a tiny desk home concert dedigated to all those grappling with Covid19 in the world during this difficult time. Please stay home and keep safe Love all the way from SA 🇿🇦

[@richbird21]

Auhhh man this is a treat, i wonder if the young artist watching now that they are watching greatness

[@andrewworrall4302]

Nkosi

[@hottub2249]

Sing it Michael! Still got it! THANK YOU!!! @NPRMusic you guys/gals rock for this series.

[@nprmusic]

Thanks, Christopher. We appreciate everyone who loves music as much as we do.

[@tomas5376]

Nothing brightens your day like a Doobie!👍✌️😊🙏🏼🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶🎵🎵🎵

[@lordvonmanor6915]

Still burning down the house 👍

[@Big2Planker]

Wow, I did NOT see this one coming. What a fantastic treat to a fantastic artist and the heart of the Doobies! This certainly provides some comfort right now. How anyone can give this one a “thumbs down” is completely beyond me. MM, a legendary voice.

[@murderhill1947]

I was surprised and pleased to see his name come up on my subscription feed. Thanks.

[@benmadi]

Time of global crisis, Michael was there, up and over :)

[@charliekennedy2545]

This is what music sounds like

[@emilianocastaneda7305]

SET LIST Piano Intro : 0:00 "Matters Of The Heart" : 0:46 "Minute By Minute" : 6:42 "What A Fool Believes" : 11:30

[@user-zh2dc9oy8z]

Never will be another one close...

[@kerrycosner6533]

Rumor has it that a new Doobie Bros. album with him is in the works!😁

[@Taybee4U]

I am crying real tears! Idk if they are happy tears or the fact I love him so much!

[@TM-oe2on]

I thought it was just me who cried! I think his voice is like a comforting hug that the world needs right now...

[@rcdixon76]

Love this.

[@alexkorner9124]

My whole conscious life is accompanied by his voice.

[@christianpatrick2131]

To the 89 people who gave this a thumbs down have no idea what real talent is. Smh!

[@reneefairley3765]

Thanks for caring enough to do that ❤❤.

[@HeROsiNhEaVeN]

Thank You Michael....🙏🏻.....for taking me back to innocent, wonderful and missed times in my life....🙏🏻

[@GH-kk9ue]

He still got it!!!

[@michaelmcdonald4190]

Thanks for your love and support I'll love to talk to you more better. kindly send a direct message [phone]

[@scubaengineering]

That voice... cuts me to the core.

[@MrTom-Songwriter-Composer]

Thank You Mr. McDonald for your brilliant performance.