Adjectives in reviews are dangerous: Terms such as “majestic”, “unique” or “perfect” should not be used, for they certainly do not describe humanity, which is generally imperfect, not majestic, nor unique.
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However, in case the band Toto, made up of artists such as Steve Lukather who have been session musicians for a huge number of albums by other artists – starting with ‘Beat It’ and ‘Human Nature’, by Michael Jackson -, there is a constant search for perfection, the ideal of impeccable sound both live and on. disks.
That is a sign of groups like Toto or Steely Dan, who do master classes for other musicians but also for their fans. AND That’s what Lúcás and his band gave this Monday, November 18 in Bogotá, at the Movistar Arena. A concert that is like a search for perfection.
They are master classes for other musicians but also for their fans.
With an audience on average older than the usual concerts seen on that stage, it was common to hear comments before the recital began such as “Toto does not give the best lineup (…) Nothing like the one he gave in 2007 (…) you are going to see it, but it is not the same.”
But over an hour and a half, Toto was in charge of putting an end to those theories, starting with ‘Goodbye Girl’ and then through 7 own songs, 2 covers of Jimi Hendrix and the Beatles, as well as an extensive solo with drummer Shannon Forrest.
After opening with that 1978 classic, the band spared no expense and delivered one of the group’s biggest hits in their second song: ‘Hold the Line’. Perhaps one of the biggest challenges fans faced was hearing her live without the voice of her late singer Bobby Kimbal.
It was the other permanent member of the band who did the work to cover it in those high notes, ie. Joseph Williamsas lead singer and without keyboards (Williams was also one of the keyboardists in the band’s history).
In this format of the band as a septet, two artists provide the keyboards: Greg Philinganes (which we had already seen live in Bogotá in 2007) and the latest feature in the group’s signings,. Dennis Atlaswhich is also the voice for the high ranges. Also the bassist John Pierce and the multi-instrumentalist Warren Ham.
The concert
also pays tribute to the absent David Paich, as it is a tour of some of his compositions from 1978, such as ’99’, which defined Toto’s signature style between progressive rock, jazz fusion and even commercial radiating pop.
Of course, with Toto and the intelligence of his members, there will always be that space for extensive solos, without any desire for modesty: first there was a dialog between Phillinganes’ keyboards and Lúcas’ guitar, in a healthy competition. Later, Forrest would come on drums. Being one of the unknown people of the Colombian public, he also knew how to steal the ‘show’ at the time.
It was just Toto of the 70s with ’99’ and other memorable songs like ‘I Will Provide The Love’ (which Williams warned was included on this tour but was not common on previous ones) but also by Toto in the 80s with ‘I’ll Be Over You’.
Singer Joseph Williams, front, and saxophone and multi-instrumentalist Warren Ham, during the production of the band Toto in Bogotá, in November 2024.
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In a concert where every song was a display of good will, attention to detail and sensitivity in the interpretation, it was essential to break the dynamic, and Toto did so by paying tribute to rock legend Jimi Hendrix with a free version of Performing ‘Little Wing’. , in which Luke saved nothing. It was laid in its own way and at the same time a perfect expression.
Toto then returned to the memorable songs from his discography, with George Porgya success that has a good number of versions by other artists and shows that sensual expression with lyrics that might be problematic today (“He kissed the girls and he made them cry”) but it is an example of what was achieved by Toto in the 70s. with his unique way of breaking away from the themes of progressive rock.
The Toto group, led by Steve Lukather and Joseph Williams, in concert in Bogotá.
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During the night, there were also dedications to the unforgettable former members of the band, especially the Porcaro brothers: Jeff Porcaro (died 1992), Mike Porcaro (died 2015), and Steve Porcaro.
to represent on ‘With A Little Help From My Friends’ (“with a little help from my friends”), by The Beatles. A version in which Williams plays with voices and expands on Luke’s soloists, but it is still an exquisite tribute to the Liverpool quartet and their singing.
Phillinganes’ solo – played by the bands of Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones and indeed Michael Jackson as well – was a spectacle in itself: a journey between the lines of rock music, blues, ragtime and jazz.
Keyboardist Greg Phillinganes, during one of his solos at the Toto concert in Bogotá.
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The “highlights” of the night were missing, the two songs that can never stop playing: ‘Rosanna’ and ‘Africa’with which they closed the concert. On ‘Rosanna’, it was an extended version in which Lúkás once again delivered some unforgettable solos. But it is clear that it was with ‘Africa’ that the community came together in a wide body.
the excitement of the public left as a testament to Toto’s second visit to Colombia, but on the contrary it left the taste of being one of the best concerts in the country in recent years.
The Bogotá group deserves an additional chapter The Millswho performed for just under 30 minutes as the opening act and accepted the task of going on stage before Toto with fortitude. He knew how to engage the public well first with ‘Lobo hombre en París’ (for an audience that is clear about the reference to the Spanish band La Unión) and then with the lights of his mobile phone in ‘Guadalupe’.
The group, who are famous for songs such as ‘África’ and ‘Rosanna’, will be on November 18 at the Movistar Arena.
What are Steve Lukather’s thoughts on the concept of “perfect” music performances?
Interview: The Pursuit of Perfection in Music with Steve Lukather, Guitarist of Toto
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone! Today, we’re fortunate to have with us one of the integral members of the legendary band Toto, the illustrious guitarist, Steve Lukather. Steve, thank you for joining us!
Steve Lukather: Thanks for having me. Excited to chat!
Time.news Editor: Let’s dive right in. Your recent concert in Bogotá on November 18 was praised not just for the music but for its impeccable execution. There’s an idea out there that adjectives like “majestic” or “perfect” should be avoided when describing bands and their performances. What are your thoughts on this?
Steve Lukather: You know, I get that perspective. Music is a reflection of our humanity—imperfect, ever-evolving. But when we perform, especially with Toto, we strive for excellence. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about capturing that magic moment. We want people to feel something real, something deep.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of excellence, Toto is known for that. You and your bandmates have this reputation for being the best of the best, such as performing on Michael Jackson’s iconic tracks. How has that shaped your performances?
Steve Lukather: It’s definitely influenced us. Working with artists like Michael Jackson, you learn the importance of detail and authenticity. Every note, every arrangement matters. It’s this relentless pursuit of what we call “the perfect sound.” Even live, we aim to bring that same energy and precision.
Time.news Editor: Your audience in Bogotá was notably older, reminiscing about past lineups. How does it feel to see such dedicated fans and the conversations around nostalgia?
Steve Lukather: It’s a mixed bag. Nostalgia is powerful; it can set high expectations. We’ve had lineups change over the years, but we embrace those challenges. We treat each performance as a unique experience. During that concert, I think we delivered a great mixture of our classics and even some unexpected covers.
Time.news Editor: You opened the concert with “Goodbye Girl” and followed with “Hold the Line.” Did you feel you managed to address the anticipation of the audience, especially considering the legacy of the late Bobby Kimball?
Steve Lukather: Absolutely. Bobby was irreplaceable, but Joseph Williams brought so much passion to the stage. Each member adds their own unique touch. It’s about honoring the past while still moving forward. We pay tribute, but we also create new memories.
Time.news Editor: You also featured incredible musicians like Greg Philinganes and Dennis Atlas in your set. How important is collaboration in your live performances?
Steve Lukather: Collaboration is everything. Each artist brings their own vibe and flair, which enriches our sound. During the concert, we had extended solos—such moments create a conversation between musicians. It’s about showing our individuality while maintaining the Toto sound.
Time.news Editor: You undoubtedly have a rich history, even performing tributes to legends like Jimi Hendrix and The Beatles. What do these tributes mean for you and the band?
Steve Lukather: Tribute is our way of respecting and connecting with the roots of modern music. When we cover a Jimi Hendrix song, we’re paying homage but also adding our own flavor. It’s a reminder of the journey music has taken and how we fit into that tapestry.
Time.news Editor: And how do you take the essence of those experiences and share them with fans?
Steve Lukather: We aim to tell stories through our music. Each performance is like a master class, sharing not just our songs but the love and passion behind them. We want our fans to feel that energy—the connection between the music and their own experiences.
Time.news Editor: what’s next for you and Toto? What can fans look forward to?
Steve Lukather: We’re continuing to tour and create. Fans can expect new music, more classic shows, and, of course, a few surprises. Our journey isn’t finished yet, and I’m excited about what the future holds.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Steve! It’s been a pleasure diving into your world and the artistry of Toto. We look forward to witnessing more of your incredible performances.
Steve Lukather: Thank you! I appreciate it. Don’t forget, every show is a chance to experience something new!