Steve Lukather Played on 1,500 Records Then TOTO Almost Broke Him
Steve Lukather and the Evolution of TOTO
Steve Lukather co-founded the rock band TOTO as a teenager and played guitar on more than 500 records. His career spans decades of chart-topping hits, Grammy wins, and personal struggles. The story of his journey reveals how musical brilliance and personal challenges shaped one of rock history most enduring acts.
Formation and Chart-Topping Success The group formed in 1977 after members David Paice, Jeff Portero, and bassist David Hungate sought a permanent band. They recruited Lukather on guitar, Steve Porcaro on synthesizers, and vocalist Bobby Kimble. The name TOTO came from the little dog in The Wizard of Oz and the Latin word for all-encompassing. Their debut album featured "Hold the Line," which reached number five in America. Critics dismissed the group as faceless corporate rock, but the band answered with six Grammy Awards in February 1983. That same month, "Africa" topped the charts. Lukather also contributed to Michael Jackson's 1983 hit "Beat It," rebuilding the track's instrumentation after a technical recording error.
Personal Struggles and Band Reunions By the 1990s, the group faced significant changes. Singer Bobby Kimble left in 1984, followed by Joseph Williams in 1989 and Jean Michelle Byron in 1991. Drummer Jeff Portero died on August 5, 1992, at age 38. Bassist Mike Porcaro later developed ALS, which left his hands numb by 2007. Lukather battled alcoholism and personal losses, eventually leaving the band in June 2008. He stated there was no more TOTO without Paice or Porcaro. He stopped drinking, attended therapy, and released a solo album in 2010. In early 2010, Paice organized a benefit for Porcaro. Lukather insisted on reuniting with original members Steve Porcaro and Joseph Williams. The group toured Europe that summer to raise funds for Porcaro's care.
Key Facts
- Steve Lukather played guitar on more than 500 records and co-founded TOTO as a teenager.
- The band won six Grammy Awards in February 1983, including Album of the Year for TOTO 4.
- Lukather rebuilt the instrumentation for Michael Jackson's 1983 single "Beat It" after a recording alignment issue.
- Drummer Jeff Portero died on August 5, 1992, at age 38, and bassist Mike Porcaro passed away on March 15, 2015.
- The song "Africa" surpassed two billion plays on Spotify and gained renewed popularity through the television series Stranger Things.
Frequently Asked Questions Why did Steve Lukather leave TOTO in 2008? Lukather departed because key original members were no longer present. He felt the band could not be called TOTO without David Paice or Mike Porcaro, and he was also dealing with personal struggles including alcoholism and family losses.
How did "Africa" achieve lasting success? The track initially faced criticism but reached number one in 1983. It later gained a new generation of fans through the television series Stranger Things, a Weezer cover that reached number one on alternative radio, and a Namib Desert audio installation.
Conclusion Lukather walked away from TOTO to protect his health and personal life. He later returned to music for a brother in need. The band's legacy endures through enduring hits, global tours, and a dedicated fanbase that continues to celebrate their musical contributions.