Black Water – The Doobie Brothers

When in New Orleans… Black Water

“I’d like to hear some funky Dixieland- Pretty mama, come and take me by the hand” a melodious a cappella section of “Black Water” that has become a staple verse in rock history.

“Black Water” is a song by the American music group, The Doobie Brothers from the album, What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits. Released in 1974, it features its composer Patrick Simmons on lead vocals.

Simmons was inspired by a trip to New Orleans when the The Doobie Brothers were touring The States in the early ’70’s. A lifelong aficionado of Delta blues, Simmons would state:

“When I got down there it was everything I had hoped it would be… The way of life and vibe really connected with me and the roots of my music.” Having earlier constructed the song’s basic guitar lick, he completed “Black Water“.

After going’ around the bend for over 20- some odd years, this group of guys still ROCK! Every time you hear those five- part harmonies, it’s hard not to get chills, and get swept away by the magic of this song.