The song was written by band member Michael McDonald, and served as the third single from their sixth studio album Takin' It to the Streets (1976).

According to AllMusic critic Jason Elias, the music of "It Keeps You Runnin'" reflects a "jazzy R&B influence" and "gospel-based keyboard shading.

"[3] Ultimate Classic Rock critic Michael Gallucci rated "It Keeps You Runnin'" as the Doobie Brothers 10th greatest song, describing it as being "California-funky.

[11] Cash Box said that Simon's "vocal is always clean and sensuous, and sensitive to the excellent backing," calling the song "an upbeat cut, with attractive chord changes and hook-filled lyric.

"[12] Record World called it "a refreshing change of pace for the songstress who sounds very comfortable with the palpitating percussive Doobies beat.