When lead singer Tom Johnston became unwell, he was recruited as a stand in for their 1975 tour, and he ended up staying on as a full time member. He first began as a back up singer for their studio sessions, and eventually worked his way up to become their touring keyboard player and vocalist during 1970s.ĭuring this time he attracted the attention of Californian rock band, The Doobie Brothers. His first taste of success was during his work with New York jazz band, Steely Dan. McDonald moved to Los Angeles in 1970 to begin his music career. McDonald was grew up in an Irish Catholic family in Ferguson, playing in local school bands during the 60s, until he was discovered playing in a band named “Blue”.
