During the 1980's, Cornelius rose to worldwide acclaim performing with The Doobie Brothers. After relocating to New York in 1986, Cornelius performed and recorded with a host of artists, including Etta James, Hugh Masakela, Nite Sprite, and The New York Rock and Soul Revue. He was a member of Steely Dan from 1993 to 2004.

He has contributed to the following Raven albums:

Tongues