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Michael McDonald

American soul singer-songwriter.

TOP HITS: i keep forgetting', every time you're near, sweet freedom, you belong to me

Michael McDonald is an iconic American singer, songwriter, and musician, renowned for his soulful voice and unparalleled contributions to the realms of rock, R&B, and blue-eyed soul. Born on February 12, 1952, in St. Louis, Missouri, McDonald's musical journey has left an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary music.

With a career spanning several decades, McDonald first gained widespread recognition as a member of the legendary rock band The Doobie Brothers in the mid-1970s. His distinctive baritone vocals became a defining element of the band's sound, contributing to hits such as "What a Fool Believes," "Minute by Minute," and "Takin' It to the Streets."

In the late '70s and early '80s, McDonald embarked on a solo career that further solidified his status as a musical force. His solo debut album, "If That's What It Takes" (1982), featured the Grammy-winning hit single "I Keep Forgettin' (Every Time You're Near)," establishing him as a formidable solo artist.

Known for his soulful interpretations and emotionally charged performances, McDonald continued to captivate audiences with subsequent albums like "No Lookin' Back" (1985) and "Take It to Heart" (1990). His ability to seamlessly blend elements of soul, R&B, and rock has set him apart as a versatile artist with a timeless appeal.

Beyond his solo endeavors, McDonald has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, showcasing his versatility and musical adaptability. His collaborations include notable duets with Patti LaBelle ("On My Own") and James Ingram ("Yah Mo B There"), both of which earned Grammy Awards.

Michael McDonald's influence extends beyond the studio and stage. His soul-stirring performances and songwriting prowess have left an indelible impact on the music industry, earning him respect and admiration from peers and fans alike. With a career marked by artistic integrity and an enduring commitment to his craft, Michael McDonald remains a celebrated figure in the pantheon of American music.

McDonald has enjoyed an immensely successful solo career as well, having recorded hits with other superstars such as Kenny Loggins, James Ingram, Christopher Cross and Patti LaBelle.

He has risen back to the top during the last couple of years with the release of two incredibly successful albums covering Motown hits.

Fees vary based on the celebrity or speaker, travel needs, performance type, and event location. Most bookings include an appearance fee, travel costs, and production requirements. SME Entertainment Group provides detailed estimates before any commitments.

Availability depends on Michael McDonald’s travel schedule, tour dates, and filming or corporate commitments. We confirm availability quickly so you can lock in your event plans.

Michael McDonald can deliver keynotes, performances, meet-and-greets, Q&A sessions, or custom programming. We outline all options and help tailor the experience to your audience.

Most of our talent requires specific AV setups, hospitality needs, and travel accommodations. We translate every rider into clear, manageable steps so there are no surprises.

Hosts often look for increased attendance, deeper engagement, or added credibility. We share relevant case studies, past events, and positioning guidance to ensure the talent supports your goals.

The process includes inquiry, availability check, offer submission, contract execution, and event coordination. Timelines vary, but many bookings finalize within one to three weeks.

Yes, many speakers and performers can tailor content to your theme, audience, or organization. We help shape and refine requests to ensure a seamless fit.

We provide background, reviews, and insights from past events. Our recommendations focus on reliability, audience response, and how well the talent collaborates with hosts.

Some talent can record promo videos, join media interviews, or approve social assets. Availability for promotional work is usually negotiated during contracting.

Contracts include clauses for refunds, rescheduling, substitutions, and unexpected circumstances. We guide you through all policies to protect your event.

SME Entertainment Group (a Live Nation Company) is your leading source for booking Michael McDonald

SME Entertainment Group ("SME") is an event producer working with corporations and leading associations around the world to provide musical acts, comedians, and all types of keynote speakers for talent booking services for corporate events and private events.