In the heart of San Jose’s Naglee Park neighborhood stands a charming Craftsman-style residence that played a pivotal role in rock ‘n’ roll history.
This single-story home, featuring 1,520 square feet of living space with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, served as the creative hub for the early days of The Doobie Brothers.
A Musical Incubator
Between 1969 and 1973, Tom Johnston, then a graphic design student at San Jose State University, rented this residence.
It was here that he, along with guitarist Patrick Simmons, drummer John Hartman, and bassist Dave Shogren, formed The Doobie Brothers.
The home’s basement became their rehearsal space, where they honed a unique blend of blues, country, and pop influences. Notably, Johnston penned the hit “Listen to the Music” within these walls.
Built in 1908, the home boasts classic Craftsman features, including large wood-framed windows, solid wood floors, and a welcoming open front porch.
The remodeled kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances and solid wood cabinetry, complemented by a wraparound granite counter and breakfast bar.
A semi-finished basement offers versatile space, suitable for storage, an exercise room, or a play area.
A Gathering Place for Musicians
The residence wasn’t just a home for the band members; it was a magnet for the local music scene.
Musicians from various backgrounds would gather here, turning the basement into a vibrant hub of creativity.
Skip Spence of Moby Grape and Jefferson Airplane was among the notable visitors, contributing to the dynamic musical environment that influenced the band’s early sound.
Legacy and Recognition
The Doobie Brothers’ journey from this modest home led them to sell over 48 million records worldwide, earn four Grammy Awards, and secure induction into the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame in 2020.
Recognizing its historical significance, the San Jose City Council designated the property as a historic landmark.
The current owners have initiated a restoration plan, including exterior repainting, plumbing upgrades, and the installation of a bronze plaque to commemorate its rich musical heritage.
This residence stands as a testament to the early days of The Doobie Brothers, preserving the legacy of a band that began its journey within its walls.
More Photos of the Home
The structure with a red door exudes rustic charm, surrounded by neatly maintained landscaping and vibrant greenery that enhances its timeless character.
A curved pathway winds through the backyard, connecting a serene patio and lush green spaces, creating a harmonious outdoor retreat.
Winding through lush greenery, a stone pathway leads to a fenced backyard adorned with mature trees, offering a serene and cozy atmosphere.
The pergola-covered patio combines rustic wooden beams with modern design, offering a charming setting for al fresco dining and surrounded by potted plants and vibrant greenery.
Beneath the wooden pergola, the stone patio provides a stylish and comfortable space for outdoor gatherings, with its thoughtfully arranged seating and vibrant surroundings enhancing the tranquil ambiance.
The front porch showcases traditional craftsmanship with its wooden floorboards and contrasting red doors, creating a warm and inviting entryway into the home.
Elegant Interiors
In the living room, warm wooden floors and a cozy fireplace combine with soft neutral tones, creating an inviting ambiance that feels both elegant and relaxed.
Surrounded by large windows, the seating area in this room balances natural light and vibrant decor, enhancing the comfortable yet stylish living environment.
Framed by wide openings, this room transitions seamlessly into adjacent spaces, blending functional design with a tasteful and serene aesthetic.
Highlighted by intricate woodwork, the built-in hutch provides storage and a charming focal point, seamlessly blending functionality with timeless craftsmanship.
Through a bright hallway, warm wooden floors extend into the dining area, accompanied by tasteful decor and clean, defined lines that invite seamless movement and continuity.
In the dining room, soft green walls and coffered ceilings frame a cozy setting, complemented by large windows that fill the space with light and offer a view of the outdoors.
At the heart of the kitchen, a polished counter with seating blends practicality and style, while stainless steel appliances and warm wooden cabinets balance modern functionality with classic charm.
Against the kitchen wall, a stained-glass panel above the stove adds a touch of artistry, enhanced by rich cabinetry and a sleek stainless-steel backsplash for a polished finish.
By the sink, natural light streams through wide windows, illuminating the stainless-steel fixtures and dark countertops, creating a fresh and inviting space for daily tasks.
Under a stained-glass accent, the stainless-steel stove and backsplash create a sleek centerpiece, framed by rich wooden cabinets that blend functionality with charm.
In front of the window, the sink area pairs polished stainless-steel appliances with warm wooden cabinetry, offering a blend of practicality and timeless design.
Natural light streams into this cozy office, highlighting a classic desk setup that creates a productive yet inviting workspace surrounded by soft neutral tones.
In the bedroom, soft lighting and plush furnishings combine to form a restful retreat, with the quilted headboard and vibrant accents adding elegance and warmth.
Bay windows in the bedroom bring in ample light, accentuating the comfortable bedding and complementing the room’s harmonious mix of soft tones and clean lines.
Soft light filters through the windows in this bedroom, accentuating the neutral tones and detailed textures of the bedding and decor, creating a serene and inviting space.
The combination of bright windows and earthy tones in this bedroom brings a natural, soothing ambiance, while the tufted headboard and carefully chosen accents add a touch of refined elegance.
On the upper landing, soft green walls and a framed art piece enhance the space’s cozy feel, complemented by a small bathroom tucked neatly to the side.
Hexagonal floor tiles and a bright vanity bring a refreshing contrast to this bathroom, while soft blue walls and natural light create a calming and functional design.
A compact bathroom features a pedestal sink and warm wood-framed mirror, combining practicality and subtle charm in a bright and well-utilized space.
White subway tiles with a built-in niche surround the bathtub, creating a clean and timeless look, while the contrasting blue wall adds depth and character to this classic design.
The basement features exposed wooden beams and ductwork, creating an expansive and versatile space, while built-in storage cabinets provide functionality and organization.
In one section of the basement, a dedicated laundry area is equipped with modern appliances, utility sinks, and ample cabinetry, offering practicality in a thoughtfully arranged space.
Natural light filters through small windows in the basement, highlighting the combination of rustic wooden beams and clean cabinetry, making it a functional and adaptable part of the home.
