“What a Fool Believes,” released in 1979, is arguably The Doobie Brothers’ signature song and a defining track of the late 70s soft rock era. The Doobie Brothers, formed in 1970 in San Jose, California, initially carved a niche for themselves with a blues-infused, hard-rocking sound. However, with the arrival of Michael McDonald in 1975, their sound evolved dramatically, incorporating elements of soul, R&B, and jazz, resulting in a smoother, more sophisticated style. This transition, while initially met with some resistance from long-time fans, ultimately propelled them to unprecedented mainstream success.
“What a Fool Believes” perfectly encapsulates this transformation. Co-written by McDonald and Kenny Loggins, the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in April 1979 and won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year that same year. Its immense popularity cemented The Doobie Brothers’ position as one of the leading bands of the decade.
The song tells the story of a man who misinterprets a fleeting encounter as a sign of romantic interest. He clings to a naive belief that a deeper connection exists, despite all evidence to the contrary. He’s essentially fooling himself, blinded by wishful thinking.
“What a Fool Believes” resonated deeply with audiences, capturing the universal experience of unrequited love and the often-painful gap between perception and reality. Its smooth, melodic structure, combined with McDonald’s soulful vocals and the song’s relatable theme, made it an instant classic. While some critics initially lamented the band’s shift away from their earlier sound, the enduring popularity and critical acclaim of “What a Fool Believes” proves the band’s ability to evolve and connect with a broader audience, securing their place in music history.