The Doobie Brothers – What A fool Believes (1979)

About the song

The Doobie Brothers, a band renowned for their blend of rock and country, ventured into uncharted territory with their 1978 hit, “What a Fool Believes.” This iconic song, a departure from their usual sound, became a testament to their versatility and the power of a well-crafted tune.

The song’s genesis was unconventional. Producer Ted Templeman, known for his work with the band, struggled to capture the desired rhythm track, leading to days of recording and re-recording. In a desperate move, he decided to cut and paste sections of the master tape, creating a unique and unconventional foundation.

Michael McDonald, the band’s lead vocalist at the time, added his signature touch with his soulful vocals, lush keyboards, and heartfelt strings. The result was a ballad that defied expectations and resonated deeply with audiences.

“What a Fool Believes” was a gamble that paid off. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 and earned Grammy Awards for Song of the Year and Record of the Year. The song’s success solidified the Doobie Brothers’ status as one of the most influential bands of the era.

Despite its enduring popularity, the song has been shrouded in a bit of mystery. Michael Jackson, in a lighthearted moment, claimed to have contributed backing vocals to the original recording. While this was later debunked as a joke, it added an intriguing layer to the song’s lore.

Today, “What a Fool Believes” remains a timeless classic, a testament to the power of great songwriting and the enduring appeal of heartfelt music. It’s a song that continues to touch the hearts of listeners, reminding us of the universal emotions that connect us all.

Video

Lyrics

He came from somewhere back in her long ago
The sentimental fool don’t see tryin’ hard to recreate
What had yet to be created once in her life
She musters a smile for his nostalgic tale
Never comin’ near what he wanted to say
Only to realize it never really was

She had a place in his life
He never made her think twice
As he rises to her apology
Anybody else would surely know
He’s watchin’ her go

What a fool believes he sees
No wise man has the power to reason away
What seems to be
Is always better than nothing
And nothing at all

Keeps sending him somewhere back in her long ago
Where he can still believe there’s a place in her life
Someday, somewhere, she will return

She had a place in his life
He never made her think twice
As he rises to her apology
Anybody else would surely know
He’s watchin’ her go

What a fool believes he sees
No wise man has the power to reason away
What seems to be
(If love can come an’ love can go)
(Why can’t love be?)
Is always better than nothing
(Ooo,)
And nothing at all
(Oh my)

What a fool believes he sees
(He believes he’s never gone away)
No wise man has the power to reason away
(To reason)
To reason away
(Oh if love can come an’ love can go)
What seems to be
(Oh my love)
Is always better than nothing
(Better than nothing)
Nothing at all
(Oh my love)