Michael McDonald, a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer with multiple Grammys, is set to release his memoir titled “What a Fool Believes” on May 21, after initially hesitating to share his story due to self-doubt. The memoir will cover McDonald’s career highs and lows, battles with alcoholism, and struggles with popularity and self-worth. Collaborating with friend, actor, and comedian Paul Reiser, McDonald’s memoir sheds light on the unpredictability of life and the necessity of adapting to changes.
The book delves into McDonald’s journey from his humble beginnings in St. Louis, Missouri, to his rise to fame as a member of Steely Dan and The Doobie Brothers, despite facing setbacks and poor decisions along the way. McDonald’s career took a positive turn when he began singing backing vocals and playing keys for Steely Dan, contributing his soulful voice to several classic albums. He later joined The Doobie Brothers as a permanent member, bringing a new direction to the band’s sound and facing internal strife within the group.
McDonald’s memoir doesn’t shy away from revealing the darker aspects of his life, including struggles with addiction and personal challenges. He candidly shares moments of vulnerability, from showing up drunk to rehab meetings to dealing with health issues. The book offers insights into the music industry, touring etiquette, and songwriting techniques, providing fans and musicians alike with a glimpse into McDonald’s artistic process and experiences collaborating with other artists.
Throughout his career, McDonald worked with prominent artists such as Elton John, Luther Vandross, Kenny Loggins, and Christopher Cross, earning accolades for his collaborations and solo work. Despite facing criticism for his frequent background vocals on other artists’ tracks, McDonald found redemption in the 2000s with well-received albums of Motown covers. He reflects on his journey in the book, letting go of resentments and acknowledging the people who helped shape his career.
With a mix of humility and honesty, McDonald’s memoir offers a unique perspective on his life as a musician and the challenges he faced along the way. From his early struggles with addiction to his later successes and collaborations, the book provides a comprehensive look at the ups and downs of McDonald’s career. Through the process of writing the memoir, McDonald gained a deeper understanding of his own journey and the importance of forgiveness and gratitude in moving forward.
