5 Albums I Can’t Live Without: Tom Johnston of the Doobie Brothers

Tom Johnston shares the 5 albums that have left a lasting mark on his musical soul.

The Albums That Shaped a Rock Legend

If you’ve ever rocked out to the Doobie Brothers’ classic tunes, you know the magic behind Tom Johnston’s guitar riffs and soulful vocals. But what albums fueled his musical fire? Let’s dive into Tom’s personal collection of five indispensable records that molded the sound and passion of this rock icon.

1. Nantucket Sleighride – Mountain

Tom reminisces about the explosive energy of Mountain’s 1970s release, Nantucket Sleighride. “I remember when they came out... ‘Mississippi Queen’ was just everywhere.” The thunderous drum work of Corky Laing—particularly his legendary cowbell—left an indelible impression on him. Johnston describes the band’s sound as “all about power,” a raw, aggressive force that felt unlike anything else at the time.

He admits he never got to see Mountain live, a regret he still feels, having admired Leslie West’s guitar prowess and Felix Pappalardi’s multifaceted talents as a bassist, singer, and producer. “As a unit, they were flipping amazing. They were a powerhouse.”

2. Upfront – David Sanborn

Moving into the jazzier side of his collection, Tom praises David Sanborn’s Upfront from 1992. Loaded with incredible talent like Steve Jordan on drums, Marcus Miller on bass, and keyboard giants Ricky Peterson and Richard Tee, this album "just knocked me out."

Whether it’s working out or cruising down the highway, Johnston finds Upfront ideal. The album offers “grooves and phenomenal musicianship and stellar timing,” proving that Sanborn’s saxophone magic and the supporting cast’s skills make it a perfect soundtrack for any mood.

3. Fresh Cream – Cream

When Fresh Cream hit the scene in the late ’60s, Tom Johnston was immediately hooked. He recalls “Songs like I Feel Free… nobody was doing that.” The originality and raw creativity of Cream, led by Eric Clapton, was a game-changer.

“It was a very original sound... the whole band as a unit was just amazing,” Tom says. The album’s blend of blues, rock, and psychedelia carved out a new musical path that still resonates today.

4. Born Under a Bad Sign – Albert King

Albert King’s Born Under a Bad Sign is another cornerstone for Johnston. He calls King “one of the most lyrical blues players I’ve ever heard,” instantly recognizable by his distinctive bends and unique upside-down guitar tuning.

Johnston fondly recalls seeing King in concert and even sharing the stage with him in 1972. “That was unbelievable just getting to see him up close and live like that, playing with him. He was really something.”

5. Rock Me Baby – B.B. King

Closing out Tom’s essential albums is B.B. King’s Rock Me Baby, a staple in blues guitar history. Johnston admires how B.B.’s “way of phrasing and singing” made his voice and guitar instantly recognizable.

“B.B.’s playing has been the bedrock of electric blues for decades.” Beyond his music, Tom remembers B.B. King as a “cool guy” whose influence remains deeply embedded in the fabric of the blues genre.

Wrapping It Up: The Soundtrack of a Rock Life

Tom Johnston’s musical journey reflects a profound respect for raw power, soulful grooves, and undeniable originality. From the aggressive drums of Mountain to the silky saxophones of David Sanborn, and the blues legends Albert and B.B. King, these albums are more than just records—they’re milestones that shaped a legendary career.

“As soon as you hear a couple of notes or the vocal you know who it is.” – Tom Johnston

FAQ

• Which album from Tom Johnston’s list is most rock-oriented?
  Nantucket Sleighride by Mountain stands out with its powerful and aggressive rock sound.
• Does Tom Johnston prefer digital or physical music formats?
  He mostly listens to downloaded music on his phone and occasionally Sirius XM but isn’t big into streaming services.
• Has Tom Johnston ever seen any of these artists live?
  He has seen Albert King live and even played shows with him in 1972, but regrets not seeing Mountain in concert.
• What kind of music dominates Tom’s personal collection?
  Jazz is a significant part of his collection, indicating his broad musical tastes beyond rock.
• What new music is Tom Johnston excited about?
  He’s enthusiastic about the Doobie Brothers’ new album, Walk This Road, and their ongoing touring.

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