Did You Know...

Michael was born in St. Louis, Missouri, which is where he first began his musical career. He performed in local bands such The Majestics and Jerry Jay and The Sheratons throughout his early life. In the 1970s, McDonald relocated to Los Angeles, California and quickly joined up with a band. He sang backup for Steely Dan for several years before joining the Doobie Brothers.

McDonald is probably most known for his work with the Doobie Brothers. He joined in 1977 and quickly began steering the group in a new direction. Their music transformed to a more jazzy, soul-oriented sound. McDonald wrote and sang several of their top hit songs including 'Takin' It to the Streets', 'You Belong to Me', and the number one song 'What a Fool Believes'. Despite their success, the Doobie Brothers announced their farewell tour in 1981, and Michael began his solo career.

Even while the Doobie Brothers were together, McDonald had experimented on solo work of his own. If That's What It Takes, McDonald's first solo album, was released in 1982. His first single was 'I Keep Forgettin' (Every Time You're Near)', and it reached number four on the charts. In 1986, he reached number one with 'On My Own', a duet with Patti Labelle.