In January 1982, The Doobie Brothers were in a significant transitional phase in their career, having released the album "Minute by Minute" in 1978, which became one of their most commercially successful records. This album featured their hit single "What a Fool Believes," showcasing Michael McDonald’s distinct lead vocals and a shift toward a more polished, R&B-influenced sound. By the time of the live recording in Santa Barbara, the band was experiencing a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to McDonald's soulful contributions and the addition of talented musicians like Cornelius Bumpus, who added depth to their live performances. This particular concert is notable not just for its live renditions of beloved tracks like "Takin' It to the Streets" and "Jesus Is Just Alright," but also for capturing the essence of a band still at the height of their creative powers.