The Doobie Brothers have added keyboard player Bill Payne as an official member of their touring band.

Payne will join the Doobies as they kick off their 2016 tour with Journey.

"Having played on many of their albums, and spent time on the road with them over the years, it is an absolute honor to be in the band," said Payne in a presser.

"They have some truly great songs, the musicianship is the best, and they are good people. I'm very happy about this union."

Payne, the co-founder of Little Feat, has previously toured with the Doobies and has featured on some of their recent albums.

"Little Feat and the Doobies started out together at Warner Bros., with Ted Templeman producing both bands.

There has been an incredibly close friendship, and so many musical collaborations through the years.

The fit is just right," said Doobie Brothers co-found Patrick Simmons.