Doobie Brothers, Michael McDonald, Willie Nelson, and more featured on Gail Swanson’s “Simple Truth”
Doobie Brother Pat Simmons has recently produced some songs on the new album Simple Truth by Maui singer-songwriter Gail Swanson. The album has just been released, and other familiar names of those participating in the project include: John McFee, Michael McDonald, James “Hutch” Hutchinson (bass player for Bonnie Raitt), Hawaii’s amazing John Cruz, and music icon Willie Nelson.
Says Pat, “Gail is one of my closest friends here in Maui. She opened the Doobies’ first concert at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center 15 years ago. Since then we have played together many times, shared a lot of musical ideas, and enjoyed the opportunity to explore writing and recording together. It’s been so much fun, and I’m real proud of her and the CD.”
Pat’s wife, Cris collaborated with Gail to write the song “The One That Got Away.” When they played the first mixes for Willie Nelson, he liked the song so much, that he asked to sing and play on the track. After he was finished, he was so happy with the result, that he decided to include the song on his album of duets, tentatively titled, “Willie And The Girls”.
Michael McDonald makes his debut on the ukulele, playing and singing with Gail on the beautiful song, “End Of The World.” John McFee’s incredible dobro playing can be heard on “Matter To You”, along with Hutch, Mike, and Pat, joining in on various instruments and background vocals.
Gail’s amazing cover of the John Cruz tune, “Missing You” (with the writer singing backgrounds and playing guitar) is inspiring, and is definitely one of the high points of the the album. We could go on and on here, but you should check this wonderful ten song album out for yourself. Click here to go to Gail’s website where you can listen to clips and purchase the CD, or purchase the CD at Amazon.
Many of the artists on the album will be performing with Gail at her CD release party, on Feb. 5th, at Mulligan’s On The Green, in Maui, recreating many of the songs from the CD live for the first time ever. It should be an exciting and fun event. If you’re visiting in Maui at that time be sure to stop in and join the party. This is going to be a unique, and one of a kind experience.
« UPDATED: Norton Buffalo Tribute Concert Dates
Comments
Comment from Dylan Umphres
Time: January 12, 2010, 12:20 am
Man I miss Gails music,so glad to know she has a new CD out!!!!
Comment from DoobieHolly
Time: January 12, 2010, 1:42 pm
Just ordered mine…can’t wait to get it in the mail.
Peace, Holly
Comment from Mark Johnstone
Time: January 15, 2010, 5:26 am
I caught part of Gail’s set at Mulligan’s on the Blue this past Fri. She is captivating! Great songs!
Comment from sheila Lepotakis
Time: January 21, 2010, 5:34 pm
Looking for items I can auction off for our annual Autism Fundraiser on May 8th. I can provide tax Id number and all paperwork for proof of fundraiser. We desperately need items..hoping the doobies and any other music star can give some help to our cause..thanks so much Sheila
Comment from EmeraldCityLady
Time: January 30, 2010, 9:23 pm
I had never hear of Gail before – previewed some of the songs and was blown away ! Thanks for bringing this amazing artist to my attention! I will spread the word. Why not have her open for you next time you come to the Emerald City?
Comment from Mark
Time: January 31, 2010, 7:22 am
Fine music by a talented individual. BTW what’s the latest on the new Doobies Album/CD?
Comment from Corky Calvert
Time: February 6, 2010, 2:59 am
Had the great opportunity to hear tunes from Gail’s new CD at the release party tonight at
Mulligan’s on the “Blue”, that coupled with the awesome band of legends that are on her CD
and played with her tonight, made for a GREAT nite. Just one suggestion: Pat bring the Doobies
back to the MACC and invite Gail to open…..Maui, No Ka Oi
Comment from Gail Swanson
Time: February 11, 2010, 1:27 pm
Thanks for the sweet words and happy to donate CDs to the Autism Fundraiser – just send me the address and I’ll mail them today! 
Comment from Forest Sprague
Time: February 24, 2010, 4:40 pm
Though I haven’t seen you in years I certainly remember your songs. Great to hear you are still playing music. I am living in Brazil now and still producing music. George Bensons last CD, I helped produce a couple of songs. I am going to listen to your new record. I am sure it is going to be great.
Comment from Andrew
Time: March 10, 2010, 10:10 am
I would love to get my hands on the CD but can’t seem to find it in canada:(
Andrew
Comment from Gail Swanson
Time: January 10, 2010, 11:12 am
Thanks so much for helping me spread the word about the new CD! Pat is an incredible producer and great friend and this CD was a really fun project! Having Pat’s guitar and vocals, and John McFee’s dobro really iced the cake – thanks guys! The Doobies are my favorite band so this article and link mean the world to me. Aloha, Gail