Questions
When and where did Toto form?
Toto formed in Los Angeles, California in 1977.
Where did the band name Toto come from?
Reportedly Jeff Porcaro wrote the word Toto on their demo tapes to tell them apart from other bands, and the name stuck partly because the Latin phrase in toto means all-encompassing, which suited their varied style.
Who were the original members?
The founding lineup was David Paich (keyboards, vocals), Jeff Porcaro (drums), David Hungate (bass), Steve Lukather (guitar, vocals), Steve Porcaro (keyboards), and Bobby Kimball (vocals).
What was Toto’s first hit single?
Their debut single Hold the Line reached the top 5.
What is their most successful album?
Toto IV, released in 1982, launched them to stardom and produced three Top 10 singles: Africa, Rosanna, and I Won’t Hold You Back.
How many Grammys did Toto IV win?
Toto IV won six Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year for Rosanna, and Producer of the Year.
When did Africa hit the top of the charts?
Africa topped the charts in February 1983 and became a constant presence on radios around the world.
Was Rosanna named after actress Rosanna Arquette?
Not really. Steve Porcaro was dating Rosanna Arquette at the time, but according to writer David Paich the song is not about her.
Did members of Toto play on Michael Jackson’s Thriller?
Yes. Steve Lukather played the main guitar on Beat It, Jeff Porcaro played drums, and Steve Porcaro co-wrote Human Nature.
What other famous artists did the band work with before Toto?
As session musicians the members played on iconic records by artists like Steely Dan and Boz Scaggs, including his album Silk Degrees.
What happened to drummer Jeff Porcaro?
Jeff Porcaro died on August 5, 1992 at age 38 from a heart attack, and Simon Phillips later replaced him on drums.
Is there a famous family connection in the band’s singers?
Yes. Joseph Williams, who joined as lead vocalist in early 1986, is the son of film composer John Williams and 1950s singer and actress Barbara Ruick.
How did Toto respond to Weezer covering Africa in 2018?
Toto returned the favor by covering Weezer’s song Hash Pipe in 2018.
What happened to bassist Mike Porcaro?
Mike Porcaro left touring in 2006 due to illness later revealed as ALS, and he died on March 15, 2015 from complications of the disease.
How many records has Toto sold?
The band has sold over 50 million records worldwide and released 14 studio albums, and was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in 2009.
