McDonald played in several local bands (such as Mike and the Majestics, Jerry Jay and the Sheratons, the Reebtoors, and The Guild) while attending McCluer High School in his hometown of Ferguson, Missouri, a suburb of St. Louis. He was 'discovered' while playing with a group called Blue and consequently moved to Los Angeles in 1970. He first gained wide attention as an adjunct member of the group Steely Dan, providing back-up vocals and keyboards. Michael continued to do background vocals for Steely Dan up to their 1980 Gaucho release.
McDonald was recruited by The Doobie Brothers in April 1975 when lead singer Tommy Johnston became ill during a national tour. As a member of the Doobies, he recorded some of his most memorable songs, such as "Takin' It To The Streets," "Little Darling," "Minute By Minute," and "What A Fool Believes" (which earned him a 1980 Grammy Award for Song of the Year).
After the Doobies' first farewell tour, McDonald continued with a very successful solo career. Among his hits are
* "I Keep Forgettin'", a duet with his sister Maureen, later sampled in 1994 by Warren G
* "Sweet Freedom", the theme to the 1986 MGM film Running Scared
* "Take It To Heart"
* "Yah Mo B There", a duet with James Ingram which won a 1985 Grammy for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals
* "On My Own", a 1986 duet with Patti Labelle which reached #1 on the US charts
McDonald has produced and/or appeared on albums recorded by many other artists, including his singer wife Amy Holland and Grammy winner Christopher Cross. He is also a co-founder of the small independent recording label Ramp Records, with studio designer Chris Pelonis and actor Jeff Bridges.
His current album out 3/4/8 is titled "Soul Speak."
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There is also Michael McDonald, an American songwriter based in Helsinki, Finland. Michael has played with Helsinki-based bands Montevideo and Treeball, and is about to release his first solo album in 2007.
Higher Ground
Michael McDonald Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Soldiers keep on warrin'
World keep on turnin'
'Cause it won't be too long
Powers keep on lyin'
While your people keep on dyin'
World keep on turnin'
I'm so darn glad, he let me try it again
'Cause my last time on earth, I lived a whole world of sin
I'm so glad that I know more than I knew then
Gonna keep on tryin' till I reach my highest ground
Teachers keep on teachin'
Preachers keep on preachin'
World keep on turnin'
'Cause it won't be too long
Oh no
Lovers keep on lovin'
Believers keep on believin'
Sleepers just stop sleepin'
'Cause it won't be too long
Oh no
I'm so glad that he let me try it again
'Cause my last time on earth, I lived a whole world of sin
I'm so glad that I know more than I knew then
Gonna keep on tryin'
Till I reach my highest ground, whew!
Till I reach my highest ground
No one's gonna bring me down
Oh no
Till I reach my highest ground
Don't let nobody bring you down
(They'll sho 'nuff try)
God is gonna show you higher ground
He's the only friend you have around
Michael McDonald's song "Higher Ground" encourages listeners to keep striving and learning in the face of adversity, taking inspiration from the perseverance of soldiers, teachers, and preachers to keep working towards something greater. He acknowledges the ongoing struggles in the world, with powers that lie and people dying, but he also recognizes the power of moving forward and learning from our past mistakes. This sentiment is echoed in the chorus, where McDonald reflects on his past mistakes and thanks God for another chance to do better, vowing to keep trying until he reaches his "highest ground."
The song is an uplifting anthem that speaks to overcoming obstacles and choosing to stay positive in the midst of struggle. The repetition of the phrase "world keep on turnin'" emphasizes the idea that nothing stays stagnant and that we always have the opportunity to grow and improve. The song urges listeners not to give up, with a message that holds as much relevance today as it did when it was released in 2003.
Line by Line Meaning
People keep on learnin'
People continue to acquire knowledge and information, taking advantage of every opportunity to grow intellectually.
Soldiers keep on warrin'
Military personnel continue to fight in various conflicts across the globe.
World keep on turnin'
The world continues to revolve on its axis, regardless of the events taking place on the earth.
'Cause it won't be too long
The artist emphasizes that time is fleeting and that no matter what happens, everything will pass quickly.
Powers keep on lyin'
Those in authority keep deceiving and manipulating the masses for their own gain.
While your people keep on dyin'
Despite the ongoing conflict and deception, ordinary people continue to suffer and die.
I'm so darn glad, he let me try it again
The singer expresses gratitude for a second chance at life or a particular opportunity.
'Cause my last time on earth, I lived a whole world of sin
The artist acknowledges their past mistakes and wrongful actions in a previous chapter of life.
I'm so glad that I know more than I knew then
The artist has gained more knowledge, experience, and wisdom since their last opportunity and is thus better prepared.
Gonna keep on tryin' till I reach my highest ground
The artist intends to keep persevering and striving towards an ultimate goal or standard of excellence.
Teachers keep on teachin'
Educators continue to share their expertise and insights with learners and students.
Preachers keep on preachin'
Religious leaders continue to spread their beliefs and message to congregants and followers.
Lovers keep on lovin'
Those in romantic relationships continue to express affection and care for their partners.
Believers keep on believin'
Individuals who have faith and trust in a higher power continue to hold onto their beliefs.
Sleepers just stop sleepin'
The singer asserts that it is time for those who are inactive and unresponsive to awaken and react to the world around them.
'Cause it won't be too long
Once again, the artist emphasizes that time is finite and that there is limited opportunity to make a difference or an impact.
Till I reach my highest ground, whew!
The artist is determined to keep striving towards their potential and achieving their ultimate goals.
No one's gonna bring me down
The singer is confident that they will not be deterred or discouraged by any obstacles.
Don't let nobody bring you down
The singer encourages listeners to remain resilient and optimistic in the face of adversity.
(They'll sho 'nuff try)
The artist acknowledges that there will always be those who try to bring others down, but they will not succeed.
God is gonna show you higher ground
The artist believes that a higher power will guide and support them towards their ultimate goals.
He's the only friend you have around
The artist asserts that a higher power is a reliable and dependable source of support and guidance.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: STEVIE WONDER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
cea319
Hey kids, live performance, with real musicians. THIS IS WHAT YOU CALL REAL TALENT!!!!!
80sman84
This what I call REAL MUSIC MADE FROM REAL INSTRUMENTS for REAL ARTIST!!! this is how its done..
Tim Hall
Agreed------- real talent
Roderick Campbell
@Tim Hall Almost too much talent. Everyone brought it that night and all were brilliant. I think Jay was a bit stunned by the whole thing, and no wonder.
Sharon Kutz
👍 👍 yes
Hulk2k6
@Roderick Campbell Probably the first time someone got Leno to shut up!🤣
ZeMadCat
I normally do NOT like when the arrangements are modified, but I have always found that Michael McDonald's taste is very impeccable in pulling it off. This is another example of putting a spin on something that you will find yourself going back to all day! Hats off yet again sir!!!!
WayneAnthonyMusicUSA
This is a TOTAL BLOW ME AWAY. Michael - you are an International Treasure. This band too... incredible energy. But your voice is the mystery as to how you can literally dig in that deep. I will forever be in awe of your gift.
Mike Himmel
The freakin voice is amazing! Incredible soul. Lifetime pro. One of best vocalists in the world. Period!
Michael McDonald
Guitar player is Bernie Chiaravalle -- Michael's guitar player since 1988 and still in his band.