Doobie Brothers Team With Zac Brown Band for ‘Black Water’

The one-song marriage between the Doobie Brothers and the Zac Brown Band felt natural, says Doobies co-founder Tom Johnston. Fans will find the collaboration on the upcoming 'Southbound' release (out Nov. 4), but can listen to a preview and get a glimpse of the recording process during this ToC exclusive.

Who would record what is arguably the classic rockers' biggest hit was one of the mysteries that surrounded the project early on. 'Southbound' is a 12-song country covers album that features Blake Shelton, Toby Keith, Chris Young and many more. Johnston explains to Taste of Country that Brown and his bandmates really wanted the chance to cut the harmonic rocker. And he didn't need much convincing.

Earlier this summer, the two groups played together at Fenway Park in Boston. Of the artists on 'Southbound,' ZBB are most like the Doobies, Johnston says. "It was kind of like meshing with another band, and they’re all great players," he shares. "They’re all great singers. It felt really natural.” John McFee, seated next to him, nodded in agreement.

The classic rock legends said tracks that feature Tyler Farr and Love and Theft are the most surprising, simply because they didn't know what to expect. The 12 songs -- including 'China Grove,' 'Long Train Runnin'' and 'Listen to the Music' -- stay true to the original arrangements, but producer Dann Huff adds a distinct country flair to make this project one fans new and old can appreciate.

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Next: See the Full 'Southbound' Track Listing