The Doobie Brothers

Takin’ It to the Streets

First released1976

Takin' It to the Streets was recorded in 1976 and marked a significant shift in The Doobie Brothers' sound toward a more sophisticated, album-oriented rock approach. The album was produced by the band themselves alongside Ted Templeman, who had worked with them on previous projects, and was recorded at The Record Plant in Los Angeles. The production featured a more refined studio approach compared to their earlier work, incorporating layered arrangements and diverse instrumentation that showcased the band's evolving musicianship. The album's title track became one of the band's most successful singles, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning a Grammy Award. The recording sessions reflected the band's desire to mature artistically while maintaining the funk and soul influences that had become central to their identity.