Tom Johnston Illness: What Illness Does Tom Johnston Have?
by Abinaya
Updated May 24, 2023
Who is Tom Johnston?
Thomas Johnston, born on August 15, 1948, is an American musician renowned for his contributions as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter. He is primarily recognized as a founding member, guitarist, lead vocalist, and songwriter of the iconic rock band, the Doobie Brothers. Throughout his illustrious career, he has also pursued a successful solo path.
With a musical journey spanning five decades, Thomas has showcased his versatility by playing with the Doobie Brothers intermittently, exploring various styles of music. In recognition of his significant impact, he was rightfully inducted into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020 as a member of the Doobie Brothers. Notably, Thomas Johnston's musical prowess is renowned for his exceptional skills as both a lead guitarist and vocalist.
Moreover, he has developed a unique acoustic guitar style, blending a distinctive strumming technique with percussive accents, creating a captivating and rhythmic sound on a single instrument.
Tom Johnston Illness
Tom Johnston, the lead singer, and guitarist of the Doobie Brothers, has been dealing with a number of health issues in recent years. In 2020, Johnston was hospitalized with a serious illness that he thinks might have been COVID-19. He had a dry cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
"Nobody was even talking out testing at that point in February," Johnston said, months later. "So it could have been [Covid]. We'll never know."Johnston has also been dealing with back problems, and he underwent surgery in 2022. He is currently recovering from the surgery, and he is not sure when he will be able to return to touring with the Doobie Brothers. Despite his health problems, Johnston remains optimistic.
"I'm feeling good," he said in a recent interview. "I'm just taking it one day at a time."Johnston's health problems have been a challenge, but he has faced them with courage and determination. He is an inspiration to many people, and he is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to overcome.
What Illness Does Tom Johnston Have?
During a crucial period of the band's shows, Tom Johnston, known for his lead guitar and vocal role in the Doobie Brothers, encountered a severe illness that he suspects may have been COVID-19. Johnston experienced symptoms such as a persistent dry cough, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. This illness posed a significant challenge for him as he had to navigate the demands of performing while dealing with these health issues. By 1975 Tom was having health issues including a bleeding ulcer, so he decided to leave the group.
Despite the setback, Johnston's unique musical style, characterized by his adaptation of acoustic guitar techniques that blend strumming with percussive accents and melodic hammer-ons, continues to resonate as a signature sound in the realm of popular 1970s rock music. Tom Johnston, born Charles Thomas Johnston on August 15, 1948, is an American musician best known as a founder, guitarist, lead vocalist, and songwriter for the rock group the Doobie Brothers.
He has also pursued a successful solo career in addition to his work with the band. As a member of the Doobie Brothers, Johnston played a pivotal role in shaping the group's sound. His contributions as a lead guitarist and vocalist have made him a central figure in their music. Additionally, Johnston is recognized for his unique adaptation of acoustic guitar techniques, combining strumming with percussive accents and melodic hammer-ons, which have become a signature aspect of his style.
Tom Johnston Doobie Brothers
Tom Johnston, a member of the Doobie Brothers, will not be joining the band on their upcoming 50th-anniversary tour due to a back injury. In a press release, it was announced that Johnston will undergo surgery and has been advised by doctors not to perform at this time. The tour, starting on May 25 in Hollywood, Florida, will continue with the participation of Pat Simmons, Michael McDonald, and John McFee.
Johnston is expected to return to the stage after he has recovered. Expressing his thoughts in a statement, Johnston said, "I hope for a speedy recovery and can't wait to get back on the road and continue doing what I love." He also expressed his gratitude to Pat, Michael, John, and the entire Doobie Brothers band for covering for him during his recovery.
The Doobie Brothers have a busy touring schedule planned until October, with shows scheduled across the United States and Canada. The band members being together on stage adds a certain mystique to their performances, as Simmons mentioned in a previous interview, highlighting the unique experience for both the band and the audience. Despite the absence of Johnston, the collaboration of Simmons, McDonald, and McFee promises to bring their signature energy and musicality to each show
Doobie Brothers Band Members
Tom Johnston
Vocals, guitar, harmonica
1970–present
Patrick Simmons
Guitar, banjo, flute, vocals
1970–present
Michael McDonald
Vocals, keyboards, mandolin, accordion
1975–82, 1987, 1992, 1995–96, 2019–present
John McFee
Guitar, violin, pedal steel guitar, harmonica, vocals
1979–82, 1987, 1993–present
John Hartman
Drums
1970–92
Michael Hossack
Drums
1970–1992, 2010
Tiran Porter
Bass
1971–72
Dave Shogren
Bass
1970–71
Keith Knudsen
Vocals, guitar
1973–2005
Willie Weeks
Bass
1980–82
Guy Allison
Keyboards
1993–present
Jeff "Skunk" Baxter
Guitar
1974–82
Nicolette Larson
Vocals
1979–82
John Cowan
Bass, vocals
1993–95, 2010–present
Marc Russo
Saxophones
1998–present
Ed Toth
Drums
2005–present
Marc Quiñones
Percussion
2018–present
Name
Instruments
Years Active
Tom Johnston Illness - FAQ
Tom Johnston is an American musician known for his roles as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter. He is a founding member of the Doobie Brothers and has also pursued a successful solo career.
Tom Johnston has faced various health challenges, including prostate cancer in 2016 and a serious illness in 2020 suspected to be COVID-19. He has also undergone back surgery in 2022, resulting in his absence from the Doobie Brothers' upcoming tour.
As a founding member, Tom Johnston has played a significant role in shaping the Doobie Brothers' sound. He is known for his exceptional skills as a lead guitarist and vocalist, as well as his unique adaptation of acoustic guitar techniques, combining strumming with percussive accents and melodic hammer-ons.
Tom Johnston is currently unable to tour with the Doobie Brothers due to a back injury. He is scheduled to undergo surgery and has been advised by doctors not to perform at this time. Pat Simmons, Michael McDonald, and John McFee will continue the tour in his absence.
Tom Johnston has been with the Doobie Brothers since their formation in 1970, making him a founding member of the band. He has played a crucial role in their success and has been a consistent member throughout their career.