About the song
“What a Fool Believes”: A Timeless Ballad of Love and Regret
Released in 1978 as part of the album Minute by Minute, The Doobie Brothers’ power ballad “What a Fool Believes” quickly became a chart-topping hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning two Grammy Awards in 1979 for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Written by Michael McDonald, the song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its relatable lyrics, memorable melody, and soulful vocals.
At its core, “What a Fool Believes” is a poignant reflection on unrequited love and the pain of heartbreak. The lyrics, penned by McDonald, paint a vivid picture of a man deeply in love with a woman who doesn’t reciprocate his feelings. The song’s protagonist is fully aware of the futility of his pursuit but continues to hold on to hope. This universal theme of longing and unfulfilled desire has resonated with listeners for generations.
Musically, the song is a masterclass in soft rock balladry. The arrangement features a rich, layered sound with prominent acoustic guitar, lush strings, and McDonald’s distinctive falsetto vocals. The melodic bridge is particularly memorable, soaring to an emotional climax before descending into a more subdued final verse. The song’s tempo is relatively slow, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the lyrics and savor the emotional depth of the performance.
The success of “What a Fool Believes” can be attributed to several factors. First, the song’s timeless melody is both catchy and memorable. Second, the lyrics are relatable and emotionally resonant, tapping into universal themes of love, loss, and longing. Finally, the production is top-notch, showcasing the band’s ability to create a rich and immersive soundscape.
In conclusion, “What a Fool Believes” is a classic of the soft rock genre. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s universal themes, memorable melody, and soulful performance. Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Doobie Brothers or simply appreciate great music, “What a Fool Believes” is a song that is well worth listening to.
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Lyrics
He came from somewhere back in her long ago
The sentimental fool don’t see
Tryin’ hard to recreate
What had yet to be created once in her life
She musters a smile
For his nostalgic tale
Never coming near what he wanted to say
Only to realize
It never really wasShe had a place in his life
He never made her think twice
As he rises to her apology
Anybody else would surely know
He’s watching her goBut what a fool believes he sees
No wise man has the power to reason away
What seems to be
Is always better than nothing
And nothing at all keeps sending him…Somewhere back in her long ago
Where he can still believe there’s a place in her life
Someday, somewhere, she will returnShe had a place in his life
He never made her think twice
As he rises to her apology
Anybody else would surely know
He’s watching her goBut what a fool believes he sees
No wise man has the power to reason away
What seems to be
Is always better than nothing
There’s nothing at all
But what a fool believes he sees…