The Doobie Brothers – Minute By Minute

About the song

“Minute by Minute” is a timeless classic from the Doobie Brothers, originally featured on their 1978 album of the same name. Written by Michael McDonald and Lester Abrams, the song was released as a single in April 1979 and made a notable impact, peaking at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in June 1979.

The song represents a significant evolution in the Doobie Brothers’ sound, marking their shift towards a more soul-oriented style. This change is reflected in the prominent use of keyboards and a medium shuffle tempo, elements that distinguish “Minute by Minute” from their earlier rock hits. The song’s soulful character, combined with its piano-driven melody, evokes the smooth charm of Motown, and it features a rich blend of rock and jazz influences.

The lyrics of “Minute by Minute” are praised for their simplicity and literacy, echoing a refined, emotional depth. Music critics have noted that the song captures the essence of blue-eyed soul, showcasing McDonald’s masterful vocal performance and distinctive organ work. The song’s musical arrangement—primarily in C major, with shifts to E minor and G major—adds to its dynamic and engaging quality.

“Minute by Minute” was nominated for a Grammy Award for Song of the Year but lost to the Doobie Brothers’ own “What a Fool Believes.” However, it did win the Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Performance By A Duo, Group, or Chorus. Despite not reaching the same heights as its predecessor, the song achieved respectable chart success, reaching number 74 on the R&B singles chart and number 13 on the Adult Contemporary chart in the US. Internationally, it found some success as well, reaching number 34 in New Zealand and number 47 in the UK.

Overall, “Minute by Minute” remains a cherished piece of musical history, celebrated for its smooth, soulful quality and its place in the evolution of the Doobie Brothers’ sound.

Video

Lyrics

Michael mcdonald/lester abrams

Hey, don’t worry, i’ve been lied to
I’ve been here many times before
Girl, don’t you worry, i know where i stand
I don’t need this love, i don’t need your hand
I know i could turn, blink, and you’d be gone
Then i must be prepared any time to carry on

But minute by minute by minute by minute
I keep holding on
Oh, minute by minute by minute by minute
I keep holding on

You will stay just to watch me, darlin’
Wilt away on lies from you
Can’t stop the habit of livin’ on the run
I take it all for granted like you’re the only one
Livin’ on my own
Somehow that sounds nice
You think i’m your fool
Well, you may just be right

’cause minute by minute by minute by minute
I keep holding on
Oh, minute by minute by minute by minute
I keep holding on

Call my name and i’ll be gone
You’ll reach out and i won’t be there
Just my luck you’ll realize
You should spend your life with someone
You could spend your life with someone

Minute by minute by minute by minute
I’ll be holding on
Oh, minute by minute by minute by minute
I’ll be holding on…