Arguably, two of the most influential bands in American music history shared the stage Saturday night as Santana and The Doobie Brothers, two of Northern California’s greatest living legends, brought decades of timeless songs, extraordinary musicianship, good vibes, and enduring energy to a packed crowd of classic rock and KSHE listeners at the Hollywood Casino Amphitheater.
The evening opened with The Doobie Brothers, whose winning blend of rock, country, folk, and R&B has made them one of the most successful bands of the past five decades. Founding members Tom Johnston and Patrick Simmons, John McFee, and Michael McDonald (Doobie Brothers Mach II) demonstrated why the band remains a beloved institution more than 50 years after its formation. Few bands have racked up so many hits and for so many decades. The Doobie Brothers have sold an estimated 48 million albums worldwide and scored an impressive 16 Top 40 hit singles, including a #1 hit with “Blackwater” in 1974 and another #1 smash, “What A Fool Believes” in 1979, which also won a Grammy for Record of the Year.
The greatest hits came early and often during their 17-song set. The Doobies opened with the energetic, soaring 1972 open-road anthem “Rockin’ Down the Highway.” They segued into another classic tune, “Take Me In Your Arms (Rock Me A Little While),” showcasing the band’s winning trademark vocal harmonies and dual-guitar-driven sound. These are the songs people grew up on and know by heart. Michael McDonald’s unmistakable voice drew one of the night’s loudest ovations during “Takin’ It to the Streets” and the yacht-rock classic “What a Fool Believes.” Fans sang along to nearly every word of “Black Water,” while “Listen to the Music” transformed the amphitheater into one giant sing-along and party. The set concluded with an electrifying and captivating version of “Listen To The Music,” proving the band’s catalog remains as vibrant and relevant as ever. Great music never goes out of style, and that’s why The Doobie Brothers can continue to tour and pack venues. There may be a touch of grey, but it’s alright.
Few groups have influenced American rock music as profoundly as The Doobie Brothers. Their seamless fusion of genres helped shape the sound of 1970s FM radio and continues to inspire artists across rock, country, and pop music today. They are quintessentially American and representative of a bygone era of great songwriting, soaring harmony vocal arrangements, and giant hooks.
After a brief intermission and changeover, a dazzling long-form video showcasing native peoples across the globe, dancing, playing drums, and engaging in ancestral rituals, including diving from trees, and ancient initiations, played above the stage and on side screens. This video footage perfectly captured the shared “DNA” and rhythm that courses through all cultures and speaks to all of humanity. There was also footage from Woodstock showing hippies sliding and frolicking in the mud. This footage provided the perfect set-up, historical mooring, and vibe for a night of transcendent, timeless, spirit walking.
Santana took the stage and, immediately after the video ended, transported the audience into a musical world unlike any other. For more than five decades, Carlos Santana’s musicianship has been without the frills or pyrotechnics. has blended rock, blues, jazz, Latin rhythms, and spiritual expression into a style that remains instantly recognizable.
Opening the two-hour+ show with the hypnotic instrumental “Soul Sacrifice,” immortalized in Santana’s 1969 Woodstock performance and the film of the same name, established a groove that never let up. The legendary guitarist, now in his late seventies, showed little sign of slowing down, delivering fluid solos that balanced technical brilliance with emotional depth. He sat on a stool for most of the show and got up to play some solos and join in on vocals and percussion.
The setlist was a journey through one of rock’s most celebrated catalogs. “Evil Ways,” and “Black Magic Woman/Gypsy Queen” elicited a thunderous response, while “Oye Como Va” turned the venue into a massive dance floor. “Maria Maria” brought a modern touch to the evening, and the infectious rhythm of “Corazón Espinado” highlighted the band’s deep Latin roots. Santana represents American rock in all its splendid colors, textures, and diverse cultures, including, and especially, Latin music and culture.
Throughout the performance, Santana’s ensemble demonstrated remarkable chemistry. The percussion section created a powerful rhythmic foundation while keyboards, horns, and guitars intertwined in complex yet accessible arrangements. Santana was joined by the Doobie Brothers to perform “I Love Music” from the Ojays, and a great cover of Buddy Miles’ Band of Gypsy’s tune “Them Changes.”
The night reached its climax with a drum solo and the final song, “Smooth,” prompting thousands of fans to rise from their seats or lawn chairs and celebrate one of music’s most enduring legacies.
Together, Santana and The Doobie Brothers provided more than a concert—they offered a living history lesson in American popular music. Both bands have transcended generations, influencing countless artists while continuing to perform at an exceptionally high level. Saturday night’s show was a reminder that great songs, masterful musicianship, and genuine passion never go out of style. Listen to the music and Oye Como Va.
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