The Doobie Brothers - Let The Music Play

The Doobie Brothers - Let The Music Play is a compelling, musically driven documentary from 2012 that delves into the rich history and remarkable journey of the widely acclaimed American rock band, The Doobie Brothers. The film cohesively string together the band's roller-coaster ride of fame, struggle, rebirth, and impact on the music universe. Directed by Barry Ehrmann, the movie stars Jeffrey "Skunk" Baxter, Bruce R. Cohn, Lara Johnston, and Tom Johnston among others, all of whom played a significant part in the journey of the band or hold deep insights into its birth, evolution, and legacy.

Jeffrey Baxter, one of the former guitarists of the Doobie Brothers, unveils key anecdotes and memories about the band. There are personal interviews, candid stories, emotional revelations that all contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the work ethic, talent, and brotherhood that constituted the Doobie Brothers’ line-up. Baxter's narrative brings to life the incredible story of an ordinary, struggling band transforming into one of the biggest rock outfits of the 1970s and beyond.

Bruce R. Cohn serves not only as the band's longtime manager but also as a guiding hand through every pivotal twist and turn in the Doobie Brothers' journey. He brings a unique perspective to the table as the man behind the curtains—an ever-present, influential figure who navigated the Doobie Brothers through their golden era, disbandment, and eventual reformation. Through him, viewers gain an understanding of the world of rock and roll before the digital age, the intricacies of music management, and the hard decisions that prevent artistic credibility from crumbling under commercial pressures.

Contributing to the dimension of the band’s familial and personal impressions, Lara Johnston, daughter of Tom Johnston, also graces the documentary. With her fresh insights about her father and his pivotal role in the band, every anecdote she shares paints a more intimate picture of the band members not just as musicians, but as humans and family men as well.

Speaking of Tom Johnston, his presence in the documentary adds a fascinating layer of authenticity. As the band's founding member, lead vocalist, and guitarist, his first-hand accounts of the legendary musical journey make for compelling viewing. He talks about the band's genesis, their creative processes, chart-topping hits, and the camaraderie that held them together through thick and thin. There are numerous poignant moments where he discusses the challenges the band faced, reflecting on the bracing reality of the music world that often lies hidden behind the glitz and glamor.

Alongside personal interviews, the documentary harmoniously blends in rare footage of memorable performances, backstage moments, recording sessions, and fan interactions, painting a vivid picture of the Doobie Brothers' career. These incredible vignettes contribute significantly to the narrative flow of the film and invite the viewers into the pulsing heart of the Doobie Brothers' world. It's a journey full of poise and passion, always guided by their overarching motto: "Let The Music Play".

The film's theme is a tribute to the band's unshakeable belief in the power and purity of music. As the title suggests, 'Let The Music Play' resonates with the Doobie Brothers’ commitment to their art, their undying desire to keep the music alive against all odds - a testament to their musical journey that spans more than four decades filled with ups, downs, twists, and turns.

This 2012 documentary is a must-watch for the Doobie Brothers’ fans, an informative treat for rock historians and a fascinating exploration of a music era for general audiences. The Doobie Brothers - Let The Music Play is not just a stroll down memory lane, but an eye-opening look at a band’s journey that triumphantly sings about perseverance, brotherhood and the transformative power of music.