Steve Lukather, born on October 21, 1957, in San Fernando Valley, California, is a renowned American guitarist, singer, songwriter, and record producer. Best known as a founding member of the rock band Toto, Lukather's career spans over four decades and includes numerous collaborations with top artists across various genres.
Steve Lukather Career Highlights
1976: Co-founded the band Toto with David Paich, Jeff Porcaro, and other session musicians.
1978: Released Toto's debut album, featuring the hit single "Hold the Line."
1982: Achieved massive success with Toto's album "Toto IV," which included hits like "Rosanna" and "Africa." The album won six Grammy Awards.
1984: Contributed guitar work to Michael Jackson's album "Thriller," including the famous solo on "Beat It."
1989: Released his debut solo album "Lukather," showcasing his versatility as a musician.
1994: Released the album "Candyman" with the band Los Lobotomys, featuring a mix of rock, jazz, and fusion.
2008: Released the solo album "Ever Changing Times," reflecting his personal and musical growth.
2010: Released "All's Well That Ends Well," a critically acclaimed solo album with introspective lyrics and intricate guitar work.
2013: Joined Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band, contributing his guitar skills and vocals to the group's tours.
2018: Released his autobiography, "The Gospel According to Luke," detailing his life and career in the music industry.
2021: Released the solo album "I Found the Sun Again," blending rock, jazz, and blues influences.
Steve Lukather Band - Members and Collaborations
Toto: Core members included David Paich (keyboards), Jeff Porcaro (drums), Steve Porcaro (keyboards), and David Hungate (bass).
Los Lobotomys: A band featuring Simon Phillips (drums), David Garfield (keyboards), and John Pena (bass).
Collaborations: Worked with numerous artists such as Michael Jackson, Paul McCartney, Lionel Richie, Boz Scaggs, and Don Henley of the Eagles.
Steve Lukather Grammy Awards
1982: Best Record of the Year for "Rosanna" (Toto).
1982: Album of the Year for "Toto IV" (Toto).
1982: Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s) for "Rosanna" (Toto).
1982: Producer of the Year (Non-Classical) as a part of Toto.
1982: Best Engineered Recording – Non-Classical for "Toto IV" (Toto).
1982: Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group for "Toto IV" (Toto).
3 Most Famous Steve Lukather Songs
- "Hold the Line" (Toto)
- "Rosanna" (Toto)
- "Africa" (Toto)
Steve Lukather Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
Lukather's role in Toto has been marked by both critical acclaim and internal band tensions, including periods of hiatus and lineup changes.
Known for his incredible session work, Lukather has played on over 1,500 albums, making him one of the most prolific session musicians in history.
He has been open about his struggles with substance abuse and mental health, which he discusses candidly in his autobiography.
Despite facing numerous personal and professional challenges, Lukather remains active in the music industry, continuing to tour and record with both Toto and as a solo artist.
Lukather is widely respected for his technical skill, versatility, and contributions to music, earning him a place among the greatest guitarists of all time.
Steve Lukather ratings
Songs: Rosanna, Beat It, Africa
Gear: Fender Stratocaster