The Doobie Brothers perform ‘What A Fool Believes’ on stage at the Palladium, New York, USA, in 1978

About the song

## What a Fool Believes – The Doobie Brothers

The Doobie Brothers, a band synonymous with the California sound of the 1970s, released “What a Fool Believes” in 1978. This track, a departure from their usual rock-oriented sound, marked a significant turning point in their career. It became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and earning the band a Grammy Award for Best Vocal Performance, Duo or Group.

The song’s success can be attributed to its infectious melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the band’s exceptional harmonies. Written by Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald, the lyrics explore the themes of love, loss, and regret. The narrator, a man who has been betrayed by his lover, reflects on his past mistakes and the foolishness of his belief in her.

The song begins with a haunting piano introduction, setting a melancholic tone. McDonald’s soulful vocals deliver the lyrics with raw emotion, capturing the narrator’s pain and disillusionment. The harmonies between McDonald and Tom Johnston, the band’s lead vocalist, are particularly striking, adding depth and richness to the song.

The bridge of the song is particularly memorable, with its soaring melody and heartfelt lyrics. McDonald’s vocals reach a crescendo as he sings, “What a fool believes, he still believes.” This line encapsulates the narrator’s stubborn refusal to admit defeat, even in the face of overwhelming evidence.

The song’s popularity can also be attributed to its relatable themes. Many people have experienced the pain of heartbreak and the feeling of being betrayed by someone they love. The lyrics of “What a Fool Believes” offer a cathartic release for those who have gone through similar experiences.

In conclusion, “What a Fool Believes” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its infectious melody, heartfelt lyrics, and exceptional harmonies make it a must-listen for fans of the Doobie Brothers and lovers of great music in general.

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 coming 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 watching her go

But what a fool believes, he sees
No wise man has the power to reason away
What seems to be
Is always better than nothing
Than 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 watching her go

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

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