Toto "Africa" Finally Graces My Ears! Vocal ANALYSIS of Their Most Iconic Song!

Yes, I am familiar with Toto's "Africa", but I've never heard the song in a great pair of headphones, and done a deep dive analysis. That changes today. I decided to use this live performance Live in Amsterdam to see just how amped the crowd gets on this song. It was totally worth it!
Join professional opera singer Elizabeth Zharoff, as she analyzes Toto for the first time, performing "Africa” Live In Amsterdam.
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Written and Performed by Toto
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I definitely recommend watching the original video without interruptions. Here's the link: • Toto - Africa (Live In...
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Elizabeth Zharoff is an international opera singer and voice coach, with 3 degrees in voice, opera, and music production. She's performed in 18 languages throughout major venues in Europe, America, and Asia. Currently based somewhere between Los Angeles and Tucson, Arizona, Elizabeth spends her days researching voice, singing, teaching, writing music, and recording TONS. She also plays Diablo and Dungeons & Dragons.
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We have a sister channel: THE SINGING HOLE. Join us there to examine how ordinary creatures create extraordinary sounds. / @thesinginghole
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Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
Non-profit, educational, or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.
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#toto #Reaction #TheCharismaticVoice
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[@aussiepie4865]

Rosanna is a must.

[@FGG850]

From the same concert

[@Genesisrequiem]

This

[@ps3ud0nym]

Came to write this 👍

[@metalcubana3004]

My favorite Toto song! Oh, and I'll be Over You ❤️

[@JC80475]

Rosanna’s drum beat is iconic!

[@PajakTheBlind]

As far as Toto goes: Hold the line

[@lilaelsi5766]

Love isn’t always on time 😊

[@MałgorzataŻukowska-z1c]

Yeahh🎉

[@rccola5167]

Great song but lyrically 1st grade.

[@masterp2269]

What is "Hold the Line"? You saying they have other songs??? 😂 just playing

[@HankChinaski27]

I also really like Rosanna.

[@a.grimes4202]

Look, Toto’s “Africa” from 1983 is a certified all-time classic, but with that being said and having been dissected here, I feel the next logical evolutionary step in your journey of discovering more of their catalog simply MUST be none other than “Rosanna” from 1982. Just an absolute treat of a song.

[@esther2376]

Africa is also from 1982. It’s on the same album as Rosanna is.

[@metalmamasue3680]

Rosanna has to be next. Love these guys and these songs. 😊 Africa is a masterpiece.

[@normjones4204]

Toto's Hold the Line and Rosanna are both great songs

[@Metal_Auditor]

Rosanna would be better because it features both Bobby and Steve singing leads.

[@davepowell4216]

Don't forget 99

[@Beazt77]

Definitely the two I would recommend.

[@elsamo007]

The skip beat in Rosanna is a rarity

[@exinferris]

Rosanna live from Falling in Between.

[@bikeaholic6386]

Rosanna is the next must do for Toto - it has everything - co-lead vocals, brass section, keys solo, ripping guitar solo - bluesey jam on the outro

[@PuppyMonsters]

I was listening to Rosanna yesterday thinking it would be great if Elizabeth did an analysis of it, but that most likely, she would be told to listen to Africa first. Log in today and here it is.

[@bench2346]

agreed about Rosanna. would also recommend to also watch a live performance of this, similar to how you did here. rosanna is just next level.

[@m.k.1340]

Doesn't hurt that despite David Paich saying that the lyrics weren't written specifically about famous actress Rosanna Arquette, the song was named after her... she being Steve Porcaro's girlfriend at the time.

[@m.k.1340]

@@bench2346 Live is good, but the music video for Rosanna is also quite good, and with studio recorded audio from them when they recorded Toto IV originally, and won Grammys for it.

[@jefftanaka1448]

Rosanna- agree, agree, agree, but do the studio version!

[@derekbarber309]

Toto- I won’t hold you back!! Amazing!!!! Moving, soaring and the orchestral accompaniment is mind blowing … and the guitar solo was created on the spot!! Hats off to Lukather!

[@klimber10001]

YES! This is beautiful. Steve Lucas voice was wonderful. Great choice!

[@mikephillips1043]

Hold the line HAS to be the next one!! Not just vocally but musically is a masterpiece. I remember hearing it when I was like 6 in the early 90s because my dad loved Toto and it's been my favorite song ever since.

[@rccola5167]

77 or 78

[@doctoremil2678]

Also, K-DST. If you know, you know.😉

[@DixonsCider]

HOLD THE LINE... love isn't always on time!

[@Nikki-l5p9y]

Everybody loves Toto! 😅

[@christopheradams8707]

"Hold the Line"- grooviest song Toto has. Thanks for your hard work on your wonderful channel!

[@TheFreezerGeezer]

Bobby's a great singer. He nails those high notes.

[@m.k.1340]

It may be one of the grooviest that people know about... but I am not so sure it is their grooviest track in their back catalog... Deep doesn't even begin to describe it...

[@dmitryowens]

And also their most hard rocking.

[@t.i.m.e.thisismyeverafter6004]

Agreed!! Steve Luthaker, playing the trippy guitar parts on this version of Africa, plays a killer seriously complex guitar solo in "Hold The Line". Love Your Channel !!

[@nazztynatenugglife5891]

I agree with HTL being their grooviest, but I love Lido shuffle and Lowdown by Boz Skags

[@CraigTerry-g7i]

I'll Be Over You has been spoken of as one of Toto's very best, the instrumentals and orchestration on it are amazing!

[@DavidMajorz]

Best song ever written

[@ThePolypam]

That song is simply marbe

[@anguscrome1086]

Toto "Hold the Line". You'll see the influences from Boston all over it. Rosanna is great as well.

[@m.k.1340]

Hold the Line, from Toto's Debut album came out in September of 1978. Boston's debut album released in August of 1976. There may have been a bit of influence, but it would have had to have been quick. Boston (east) and Toto (west) are two of my all-time favorite bands, and both bands made up of virtuoso genius musicians that arguably the music industry was not ready for, and didn't know what to do with. Intimidating levels of talent that made genius level music look easy, and sound incredible.

[@RobTaylor-cs3bz]

Great choice, Elizabeth. Toto combines rock, pop, soul, jazz, blues, and R & B in a contagious way backed by instrumental excellence. Their songs "Rosanna" and "Hold the Line" are perhaps even better than "Africa"- at least I think so.

[@jamesreding6336]

Yes yes yes

[@buzwush]

Yes! "Hold the Line" and "Rosanna" are #1 & #2. Steve Lukather and the late great Jeff Porcaro, sooo AWESOME!

[@jessieball6195]

I disagree. "Africa" is much better than either of those two songs (although both are very good).

[@giffimarauder]

Yes yes yes from me too :)

[@IllegallySighted]

Those are the other two songs I really love from Toto too. I highly recommend both of these.

[@phillipwhitehead5573]

This group is full of some of the literal, greatest musicians.

[@vanhohman9995]

And song writers

[@_emh]

Steve Lukather is a God-tier guitarist. He's done session work on countless other artists' albums, including on Michael Jackson's Thriller. But he'll always be known for Toto. Glad you're reviewing this one, Elizabeth! The next Toto reviews probably ought to be "Rosanna" and "Hold the Line."

[@randallpetersen9164]

Rick Beato's interview with Steve is excellent. He really is God-tier, but only musicians seem to know that, lol.

[@Fawkes318]

And he's friggin hilarious. I would love to hang out with him.

[@Sean-pc1xc]

​@@randallpetersen9164I watched that just a few days ago and it was really interesting

[@1958seeker]

They are all God level musicians both as session players and as part of the band and have featured on so many different albums including Michael Jackson, Bozz Scaggs, Steely Dan just to name a few

[@FVD]

They all pretty much worked on Thriller, not to mention Steve Porcaro writing Human Nature.

[@digibirder]

Thank you Elizabeth. I really enjoyed experiencing these high-end musicians with you. "Rosanna", "Hold the Line" and "99" would be some other great songs of theirs to explore.

[@bigpeeler]

"99" is a hidden gem. 👍

[@SamiLehtela]

MUSHANGA!!! from their Seventh One album is absolutely beauriful, it shows The talent of all The musicians in The band!!

[@MsChris2707]

Love it

[@TopVersnelling]

Definitely some of Jeff's best work! His groove on the drums is just perfection.

[@LibrarianMichael]

Toto's Rosanna is another favorite of mine.

[@gwooledge]

Next Toto song I would suggest is "Rosanna".

[@Execute_Order_66_DO_IT]

Agreed as long as we don't get another cringe thumbnail. But that's her thing so I doubt it.

[@samba152]

Every least tone of these guys are perfection and that is why we can listen to it as fresh 40 years later

[@calgaryjimbo]

Great analysis as always. "Hold the Line" was my first experience of Toto and remains one of my all-time favourite songs. Absolute banger.

[@College-Boy]

"I'll be Over You" is an understated masterpiece -- with a surprise harmonizing guest.

[@DavidDarrow]

THIS THIS THIS!!!

[@m.k.1340]

Steve "Luke" Lukather, the lead guitarist, wrote and sings lead vocals on this one, one of my all time favorites, along with "I won't hold you back now." Plus I'll be Over You has a surprise famous unmistakeable backup vocalist, in addition to Joseph Williams (son of composer John Williams) who later became Toto's lead singer. I won't spoil the surprise on the other backup vocal.

[@aafpeptoe4209]

Agree 100%

[@BlackJackLopez]

...and I came in to say THIS. Plus I've always thought the 'surprise guest' is one of the best backing vocals EVER. His participation in Christopher Cross's "Ride like the wind" is also... just delighful, imo.

[@DavidDarrow]

@@m.k.1340 Yes! Though I could never settle on picking actual favorites, I sometimes think that I actually like I'll Be Over You, and I Won't Hold You Back the best out of the entire Toto catalog! I also on many occasions feel like Pamela might actually be better than Rosanna. I know...clutch the pearls. lol

[@markjustice7894]

We played an arrangement of this in my high school marching band not long after this song came out. Many years later did an acapella version for choir. Both were great fun. Definitely recommend I'll Be Over You.

[@jamesreynolds4152]

Toto's "Rosana", I got to see Toto open for Journey a couple of years ago in Little Rock. Having grown up in the 1970's I love the 80's Rock and continue listening to the music of that era.

[@KennethSavage-nn2vv]

Being a drummer I feel the need to shout out Simon Phillips here on the skins. Toto’s original drummer Jeff Porcaro died in 1992. Great reaction and review. 👊🏻

[@stevenmeyer9674]

Loved Philips when he played with the fantastic jazz pianist Hiromi. You can find many of their performances here on YT.

[@RedDwarf-sy3me]

Elizabeth, if you like Simon Phillips's drumming, please consider reviewing "Give Blood" by Pete Townshend from his Deep End live tour (kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGeWoGSdlqyafpI). It has a big-band sound, and the drumming and guitar work are amazing. Afterwards, you should check out Simon's Drumeo video on the drumming for that song (kzbin.info/www/bejne/bIvQiJ2VfcqnkJY).

[@KennethSavage-nn2vv]

@ yes yes yes that’s an amazing song and SP drumming is showcased at a high level

[@EmmaPeelman]

Porcaro

[@penrod6540]

the Rosanna shuffle is an iconic drum rift

[@crtune]

Steve and Steve (Steve Lukather and Steve Porcaro) were in classes with me (Frankie Nobert's class piano and music theory classes) at Grant High School (Van Nuys right next to North Hollywood and Sherman Oaks). Yes, they were great musicians already, and already working seriously in recordings and backing up name musicians. I remember Lukather talking to me outside class one day and somehow mentioning that Sammy Davis Jr. was way under rated as an overall high quality singer (I'm paraphrasing a bit, but he was basically encouraging me to check his recordings out). Lukather is a heck of a singer, in my opinion. It seems David Paich is singing initially (Dave is a great musician, imo). His dad, Marty Paich, was the arranger who did basically ALL of Sammy Davis Jr.'s band charts. Marty Paich was a FANTASTIC arranger, and we, who play in big bands all know his great talent. He also did movie and TV work. I would imagine all these guys wound up being exposed to his work, and him. Check out "Rosanna", "I'll Be Over You" (features Lukather singing), "Georgy Porgy", "99" and "I Won't Hold You Back", "Hold The Line" (Bobby Kimball prominent).

[@m.k.1340]

Toto's story is fascinating, including how many original members, and how many new members over the years have come onboard, left, and in some cases come back. Jeff Porcaro, the original drummer, was the son of a Los Angeles session and jazz drummer/percussionist, Joe Porcaro David Paich, the pianist, is the son of a Hollywood TV musician, composer and conductor, Marty Paich. The two of them met in the early 70s, and played session work for many famous acts, even before forming Toto as their band They brought along Steve "Luke" Lukather on lead guitar, David Hungate on Bass, and Jeff's brother Steve Porcaro on keyboards and synthesizers, and Louisiana-native Bobby Kimball on lead vocals, although Paich, Lukather, and Steve Porcaro have performed lead vocals, and Hungate and Jeff Porcaro provided backing vocals... Later on, Mike Porcaro, Jeff and Steve's brother, succeeded Hungate on bass guitar, and Steve Porcaro took time away from Toto to write for other artists, including Michael Jackson hits on Thriller and Black or White, and movie scores, but does occasionally return to record and tour with Toto. Paich, the Porcaro brothers, as well as Lukather, and his close friend Eddie Van Halen also contributed to Michael Jackson's Thriller track and most of the album, (among hundreds or thousands of other session recordings over time.) Bobby Kimball left the band after Toto IV, and was replaced by Fergie Frederiksen on the Isolation album, as well as Luke taking lead vocals more frequently, and after Frederiksen left after that,, Lukather's childhood friend Joseph "Joe" Williams, son of famous composer John Williams came on for backing, and then lead vocals for Fahrenheit, and the Seventh One, as well as . Williams would also leave the band for a time, and also is a composer and studio vocalist in his own right. Toto had a very short stint with Jean-Michael Byron, and a lot of Lukather's own lead vocals, would follow, although Bobby Kimball returned for a few studio recordings and tours, and Joe Williams also returned, and still tours with Lukather and the current formation of Toto as a touring band. Williams, Lukather, and Paich now record material as solo artists, but their solo albums feature each other as guest artists, although they don't record and sell albums as Toto anymore. David Paich and Steve Porcaro also are reported to still make special appearances on Toto tours, and have throughout the years even when they haven't been available for all the tour dates. However, the band is marked with tragic loss. Jeff Porcaro died young of a reaction to insecticides in combination with a heart condition in 1992, with a legacy of being one of the greatest drummers of his time, and among the greatest bar none. His younger (middle) brother, Mike Porcaro, also died young of ALS in 2015. Jeff Porcaro's successor at the drum kit for Toto for many years afterward was english virtuoso drummer and producer Simon Phillips. That is just a thin summary of a half-century history of what these amazing musicians have done and created.

[@arthurhermann9187]

A really great summary of this band’s history

[@Daniel-p3c4k]

I think that was the most informative short write up I have ever read. Well done!

[@crtune]

Great summary. Also David Hungate had played extensively in Texas and Oklahoma area, I think went to NTSU for a while (played trombone, but switched to bass). Hungate had been tasked with backing Sonny and Cher on tour and then moved to LA. Eventually Dave Hungate decided to move to Nashville, and he has been a busy session player there for decades ever since. Steve and Steve (what we called them at Grant H.S. Lukather and Steve Porcaro) were already doing incredible stuff even in High School. Steve Porcaro had an entire orchestral / rock band tone poem we did which was extensive and amazing. Lukather was already an obviously gifted guitarist, and had been on tour with Boz Scaggs. We not only had those guys but also Mike Landau was there and others who were excellent musicians. This High School was right in the heart of the Hollywood scene and recording world, so it was amazing.

[@Daniel-p3c4k]

@@m.k.1340 I'm not certain...but I think Pocarro played drums in a fictional band on "Eight is Enough", a friend of mine son played guitar in that same TV band. It's been so long since I've seen that show I dont recall how long or how many times the garage band was mentioned or shown.

[@enten161]

Rosanna live at Montreux 1991 would be my pick. It's easily the highest quality 30+ year old live performance I've ever seen. It's really pure, there are no backing tracks and there is no autotune or pitch correction. It also includes a much better version of Africa (imo) and Hold the Line but Hold the Line isn't on KZbin. Lots of communication between band members as well as with the crowd. Extended instrumental/jam sections with crazy dancing. It's just so cool.

[@chuckwhite3176]

I've heard this song many times since it came out in my high school years, but this is the first time I've heard an extended version of it. Have to say I really really enjoyed it, so thanks to you and your staff for picking this version to react to!

[@computerdave06]

MAN! Toto, Journey, Chicago... what a time in music to live through. I echo others that "Hold the Line" should be next

[@jf6720]

We really didn't know how good we had it! I still listen only listen to that music now.

[@roberthughes2402]

I agree with Rosanna and Hold The Line. A forgotten gem is 99 (a song about Agent 99 - played by Barbara Feldon - from the TV show Get Smart).

[@danieljette7409]

No it’s not, according to google, the official story is: “The song 99 was inspired by the George Lucas movie THX-1138 about a society where people were given numbers instead of names.

[@atman3437]

I love love love that song, especially as it reflects my own feelings about Agent 99 from watching Get Smart as a young teenager. ;-) However unfortunately I believe she is not the actual inspiration for the song but I continue to ignore that fact and keep pretending she is. 🙂

[@melrupinski88]

That’s the first Toto song I ever heard on the radio as a youngster. That song definitely grabbed me and has been a favorite of mine for the 40-some years since.

[@johngregory8840]

Absolutely LOVED 99 back in the day and always have to stop to listen any time I hear it now. 99 is one of the rare songs that immediately pulls every bit of my attention away from whatever is going on and I get lost in it.

[@paulrobuck8249]

99 is amazing highly recommend

[@PhillipCalvin627]

Elizabeth being absolutely adorable at about the 25:00 minute mark was a highlight of this one. I'm glad you chose this live performance because it really showcases how talented these guys are. You can hear it in the song and especially some of their others but that whole musical interlude was really enjoyable.

[@stvbrsn]

Is there a time when Elizabeth *ins’t* absolutely adorable?

[@PhillipCalvin627]

@ damn good question. Perhaps I should rephrase, Elizabeth being exceptionally adorable.

[@stvbrsn]

@@PhillipCalvin627 ok, I accept that. Lol. Cheers!

[@HiFiListener]

The whole album 'TOTO IV' is a masterpiece. Especially 'ROSANNA' and 'I WON'T HOLD YOU BACK' are to mention besides 'AFRICA'. But if you take your time, listening to the album is a real pleasure.

[@hallacar]

My underground favorite of that album is "Make Believe", but you are 100% correct - the whole album is fantastic.

[@avoncalling7886]

Even Georgie Porgy is pretty dang good!

[@HiFiListener]

@avoncalling7886 Yea! The first and the fourth album are my favorites. And almost every time 'Hold the Line' comes up, I will sing along with it (if you can call the thing that I do 'singing' 🤣)

[@stevesnow315]

Agreed. My personal favorite is "Afraid Of Love" Lukather at his best.🙂

[@falsemcnuggethope]

The Seventh One is my favorite album from them. I find it's even more packed with catchy songs.

[@raserx63]

Before TOTO, these guys originally played with Boz Scaggs (“Lido Shuffle” another great song to check out)and were among the most in demand session musicians. Individually , they are on hundreds of recordings for various artists and even did the soundtrack for the 1984 “DUNE” movie. Bobby Kimball’s vocal on the song “Hold The Line” is really killer. Elizabeth will get a kick out of it for sure!

[@m.k.1340]

Jeff Porcaro was the touring drummer for Sonny and Cher, Boz Scaggs, and other famous 70s acts, as well as one of the best drummers ever, and a prolific session player. He and David Paich founded Toto. The Lido Shuffle, as well as the Rosanna Shuffle were iconic Porcaro drum work, despite his commentary that he didn't particularly like shuffles. David Paich was an avid Sci-Fi movie buff, including writing the song 99 that references characters in George Lucas' THX 1138 movie. Toto as a band recorded the soundtrack to David Lynch's Dune (1984) just prior to Toto IV, which was a multi-grammy winning album, including Africa and Rosanna, among many other great tracks... and that is just a thin slice of Toto's early career.

[@gavinstewart9538]

and they were Michael Jackson's band for the Thriller album too

[@mikosoft]

​​@@gavinstewart9538not the entire album but like half of it. And Steve Porcaro actually wrote Human Nature

[@metalmamasue3680]

Life Shuffle is great and such a great trip down memory lane. 😊

[@adirondacker007]

I grew up in the 80's. When Toto came on the radio and I could just stop and absorb the music, I did so without fail.

[@jontekw]

You have to hear Hold The Line now, jsyk

[@user-wv8cn4vi6w]

Hold the Line and I’ll Be Over You are two of my go to Toto songs.

[@ChristyBrown-kc1st]

Here a month late, but I just had to comment. I’m a dancer, pianist, and bassist. Toto is a musician’s band, as in every single member is at the top of their respective instrument(s). The fullness and perfection of the instrumentation and vocals are sublime. I used to love dancing to their music growing up, and playing it on the keys. Every time I was thinking about the sound or rhythm or technique, you would say the exact words I was thinking. Crazy that they are so good at what they do, that two different musicians would be thinking the exact same thing. I was hearing so many styles on keys, from Caribbean/Jamaican influence, to jazz, and Chinese. The smoothness and fatness of the bass tone was just so good. Bass players long for that tone live. It’s helped by specific bass styles/makers, but also strings and amplifiers as well. But, having a great sound person is crucial. I am extremely familiar with this song and taught myself the keys in high school. The reason I write this is because nothing should’ve taken me by surprise, but I don’t think I’ve ever heard a live performance of theirs. When those harmonies hit, I got the biggest smile and literally cried. It’s just so gorgeous. I was afraid I’d be disappointed hearing them try to harmonize live, but, no. It was so good! This is what I’m ending my night on. An incredible musical and vocal high🥰 These guys are magic together. Thank you for analyzing this! If you want to hear more of Bobby, try Rosanna or Hold the Line. But, really, all of their songs are great. Toto’s Greatest Hits is amazing, so, close your eyes, point to one, and go with it, haha.

[@blakerbnsn]

Gotta do Hold the Line. The vocals are incredible.

[@ericd1632]

Great analysis as always Elizabeth! "Hold the Line" should be your next Toto song for sure! Cheers 🍻

[@dave30076]

Echoing what so many have said, Toto are really master instrumentalists and vocalists. They are just so good on their instruments (others have mentioned Lukather and all his session work), and it all blends so well.

[@CreedP1]

So glad to see this reviewed, Toto formed after backing up Boz Scaggs and Steely Dan, and their members have played on so many other amazing records like Beat It. Seeing them live in Rancho Mirage earlier this year was incredible, diving into the rest of their catalogue had such depth, from their 70s debut to their modern sounds. Great review, and best of luck with Charismatic Baby #2!

[@biomaven4124]

Once you know that they were the studio band for Silk Degrees by Boz Scaggs you can never listen to that classic album again without hearing Toto’s contribution to the music on every track.

[@ErikStone1]

Check out "Rosanna" by Toto. All my drummer friends geek out over that shuffle beat that's played.

[@jokervienna6433]

I think the origin of that shuffle is called "The Purdy Shuffle". There are clips around that. John Bonham also used it (before Toto) in the Led Zeppelin song "Fool in the rain". And YES, I can play it! :D

[@JC80475]

The shuffle beat is iconic!

[@beeewellschannel1231]

@@jokervienna6433 I thought it was called "The Porcaro Shuffle", named after Jeff Porcaro, the drummer and original band member of Toto

[@BaritoneRocks]

No, Jeff Porcaro "borrowed" the Purdie Shuffle.

[@pinball1970]

​@@BaritoneRocksIt's a combo according to Poccaro

[@augustabiehly7225]

The Toto guys are studio musicians who literally played on thousands of sessions with everyone big or small. They were A-listers in the LA studios from 1978 until the end of the golden era for studio guys. You will find their names on albums by Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, Dolly Parton, Michael Bolton, Rod Stewart and tons of others. Lead vocals have always been shared. Originally, Bobby Kimball was the lead singer. However, David Paich sang quite a lot of songs of which their two main hits "Africa" and "Rosanna". When Paich took a step back and Kimball was out of the band, guitarist Steve Lukather took over lead vocals duties and the band had two great background vocalists live on stage. Tony Lindsay, who plays rhythm guitar in this video, sang background during his stint with the band. Live, there was at least four people singing harmonies on stage. When legendary founding member drummer Jeff Porcaro, the band hired the exceptional Simon Phillips (seen in this video), one of the most skilful and musical drummers ever. As far as Toto goes, my favorite songs are "Tale Of A Man", "White Sister", "George Porgy" (although I prefer versions by Will Lee and David Garfield/Alex Ligertwood) and "Hold The Line".

[@DaveDfromWV]

A bit lesser known but awesome: "I Won't Hold You Back" has incredible harmonies and wonderful chord progressions.

[@rsharp74gmail]

Couldn't agree more. "Rosanna" and "Hold the Line" are obviously great, that's why they were hits. But for harmonies, backing vocals, and some great belted out notes, "I won't hold you back" is the best choice.

[@JoeThornhill]

I was just wondering if anyone knows more than the same three songs of theirs that I do, lol.

[@juhole]

I would love to see I Won't Hold You Back!

[@hunkydory419]

Yes, I concur. The orchestral and vox arrangements are awesome!

[@icerag]

These guys are absolute pros -- among the best LA studio musicians. That's why they are so smooth and groovy. Going strong for almost 50 years.

[@garyganser2451]

There are multiple documentaries on session players who massively contributed to music in the 60s and 70s. Example Muscle Shoals. These session players didn't just play straight music, they improvised greatly adding to the songs. These people often worked massive hours without the recognition of their contributions. Michael McDonald was once a session player. My understand is that Toto was a set of session players who made a band.

[@cdc3108]

Oh dear..... Finally another one of my favourite bands, seen live so many times... Thank you so much for making us loving them even more and learning sooooo much about the incredible mechanics of such magic ❤❤❤

[@McM-u2u]

OMG, that is a deep hole, they have many great songs, HOLD THE LINE is a good one. These guys are all Great musicians and artists.👍🍀

[@avoncalling7886]

YAS! I love Toto! Though their best vocalist is not really highlighted on this particular track, it’s an iconic tune nonetheless! Rosanna and Hold the Line both show Bobby Kimball’s awesome vocal abilities :)

[@mrdali67]

The thing is as far as the “classic” setup goes apart from being excellent on each of their instruments they all had super good vocals too and all some of the best session musicians you could get in the studio.

[@luisalonsoecheverria]

Too bad Bobby is lip-syncing on this song.

[@falsemcnuggethope]

@@luisalonsoecheverria that's what I was wondering too.

[@mentaldisease5193]

So many beautiful voices in the chorus, you really can't decide which one you want to sing along to.

[@charter-rejects]

Besides the ones already mentioned, My favorites from Toto include "Stop Loving You"; "Pamela"; and "I Will Remember." (The latter has a drum beat that can't be missed!) Great job on your video! Africa is a timeless classic! RIP Jeff and Mike Porcaro.

[@derekbarber309]

I will remember drums are crazy good!!!

[@Meatball2022]

Pamela is a great song. She will like Joseph Williams vocals on that song

[@mikeparker7631]

Toto isn't a band...its a bunch of rock legends who got together to have some fun and show the rest of the world how its done.

[@lezivanerrol3697]

A bunch of virtuosos. The guitar player Steve "Luke" Lukather is part of Ringo's Allstars and has played on thousands of studio sessions.

[@glenby2u]

I thought they were a bunch of the best studio musicians that decided to do some of their own stuff. all mega awesome in their own right.

[@mikeparker7631]

@@glenby2u thats what I said. you can be a rock legend from behind the scenes...

[@sbrycroft]

Not true. Paich, Jeff Porcaro, and Lukather were all friends in high school. They really wanted to be a band, but didn’t want to live on $1 a day waiting to make it big. So they went out as studio musicians for a while to make a living. When they got some money in their pockets and were able to form Toto, they recruited Bobby Kimball and Porcaro’s brother.

[@BradSimsCPT]

TRUTH

[@Scott-j7v7w]

Wow, I absolutely love your full spirit and enthusiasm. I not only learn more about music, but I feel so good after watching your reactions. Keep up the awesome work.

[@kennethlarocque2605]

My favorite Toto song is I'll Be Over You.

[@lilaelsi5766]

Yes, with Steve Lukather on vocal ❤❤❤

[@jaap5398]

@@lilaelsi5766 and Michael McDonald on backing vocals of course :)

[@Eva_L1313]

What a beautiful song!! ❤

[@emeraldmaiden63]

It's mine, too.

[@michaelwanklin3580]

I was born in Africa (Zimbabwe) and have worked extensively overseas in SE Asia and Arabia - this song always brings tears.

[@brendonlake1522]

Hi from Zim😊

[@george474747]

I completely agree with Elizabeth that the keyboard rhythms give me an African vibe. The offbeats feel kind of like funk music, and I wonder if there's some sort of actual historical relationship to African polyrhythms there that's she's picking up on. (To follow up on her point, it's not exactly a pattern you'd hear in an English folk song.)

[@armatar]

Swaziland here - this song and the syncopated rhythm always remind me of home.

[@alfredotherescuetuxedocat83]

I commented on a later video of yours that I wanted to see you listen to this song. I went back to a month ago (I fell a bit behind) and lo and behold, you'd already done it! 😊

[@FlashBytes]

I can highly recommend their song Rosanna.

[@1Deep43VA]

Wish she had done Hold the Line live in the 1970s

[@tiffanygreen9806]

Love this. Toto's africa is my favorite song of all time

[@metalmamasue3680]

Its a fantastic song 😊❤ Another one I would love to see Elizabeth react to is Smooth by Santana and Rob Thomas. I've always loved that one too.

[@baseballfan172]

Awesome analysis! Love this video! In terms of Toto, Rosanna, Hold the Line and I’ll be Over You are absolute musts!

[@mrbrizbo]

The affection shown by the two bandmates at the beginning of the song was, in my opinion, because they are the two original Toto members playing in this recording. The bass player is Mike Porcaro. He is not an original Toto member, but his brother, Jeff Porcaro was Toto's original drummer. Jeff Porcaro died in 1992 of a heart attack when he was 38. Hold the Line is Toto's breakout hit from their original album in 1978, and you should definitely listen to it.

[@keanoshea4033]

Sadly we also lost Mike to ALS in 2015.

[@jonwunderlich5951]

And not many drummers could do Jeff's track justice but Simon Phillips is definitely one of them.

[@obhmusic]

Guitar at the end: he is using a specific pickup called «sustainiac». It creates infinite sustaining overtones. He is also hitting the bridge, the vibrato system. The bridge is mounted into the guitar using springs, so when he is hitting (pushing on) the bridge, he is compressing the springs. Bass tone: he is rolling of the high end, and also muting whit his fingers.

[@ErikStone1]

By the way, the guitarist is Steve Lukather...legendary studio musician. He's played on a ton of hits that you've heard. For example, all the rhythm guitars on Michael Jackson's "Beat it". The lead solo on that track is Eddie Van Halen, but all the other guitar parts are Steve. He's all over that Thriller album..."Human Nature" is another MJ song he's on.

[@francisseidel8014]

Human Nature was written by the other original Toto keyboard player-Steve Porcaro. The story of how it was accidentally sent to Quincy Jones when Paice sent a cassette tape of something for Quincy to check out for thriller. Human Nature was on the B side, and when the tape auto reversed, the draft of Human Nature blew Quincy's mind. They brought in another lyricist to adjust the verses but that song came to MJ by accident.

[@iluvj50]

RIP Quincy Jones.

[@beerdedphantom3925]

YUP! Not just Lukather though, people forget or aren't aware that they were a supergroup made of accomplished session musicians. They continued to collaborate with the biggest acts in music (individually and sometimes together) especially throughout the late 70's and all of the 80's. They were everywhere!

[@jymmid.8278]

I would go as far as saying that Steve might be one of the most important musicians of our time. His fingerprints are on so much.

[@TheEricthefruitbat]

They are all top-tier studio musicians who have appeared on most of the records from the 70s and 80s.

[@ImSumWhatMad]

SO excited for this! I've been waiting for Elizabeth to react to Toto for years! So many extremely talented musicians. You've got to do Hold the Line by them next for some amazing vocals!

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

I'm really excited to hear that one. I don't think I ever have.

[@edmwolf86]

@@TheCharismaticVoice gotta check out that one and "Rosanna". Those two along with Africa are certainly Toto's greatest songs (amongst their many, many amazing songs). Hope you do the live and studio versions!

[@AllGoodOnesAreGone]

@@TheCharismaticVoice Hold the Line and Rosanna are great, but as a few commenters have mentioned, don't sleep on "99" either.

[@IliyanIliev89]

You've got one of the best session musicians, that created one of the biggest hits in the world, all on one place!!! It does not get better than this!!! Each one song made by them is masterpiece!!!

[@leekendrick8292]

Rosanna, Hold the Line, Alone, I'll Be Over You, Bottom of Your Soul. Elizabeth, there are soooo many great songs that Toto have written over the almost 50 years of being a band and not just a group of studio musicians. They are supurb live!

[@Carnduffmc15]

Most of the people here will recommend "Hold the Line" or "Rosanna"But i would like to recommend one that is not as popular but has a theme and vocals that you might really enjoy - "Only the Children" of the "Seventh one" Album. I get the prickles every time I listen to it. The story of Toto as a group of musicians and the thousands of albums they have been studio musicians for is amazing. you could do 20 episodes just on songs they played on. Enjoy exploring Toto as they are incredible players.

[@reedlarson302]

I love the soundtrack from the David Lynch film, Dune (1984.)

[@falsemcnuggethope]

I skimmed through my favourite tracks from them and this was my pick for a recommendation as well. That chorus just lifts your mood like nothing else. That whole album is my favourite from them.

[@michaelmartin1278]

Only The Children is a damn fine track. Great recommendation.

[@agemmemnon100]

Two of my favorite Toto songs, Rosanna and Hold the Line. Got to see them perform live in Indianapolis at the Music Mill just a few years before they retired and all three of these songs were performed. It was a great night. Billie's voic4e really stuck out and it was so much fun listening to all the band members harmonizing to Africa. That rift is one of my favorites. Thanks for covering this.

[@rhaegoti]

You should really watch the cover of Africa by Frog Leap Studios (on KZbin), even if you don't do a video on it. It's a very different feel to this classic, and wonderfully performed. Leo Moracchioli is such an incredible artist- playing multiple instruments, handling the vocals, and doing metal arrangements of songs from every possible genre of popular music.

[@thirstfast1025]

Ah, dangit, you beat me to it! I just commented almost the same thing LOL!

[@dwaynepenner2788]

His Frozen cover are totally awesome!

[@rhaegoti]

@@thirstfast1025 High Five! Happy to see another fan of Leo!

[@rhaegoti]

@@dwaynepenner2788 Thanks for the recommendation, I hadn't watched that one before. So fun! I was waiting for his daughter to walk in and bust him for playing with her instruments haha Some of my favourite videos are where he's rocking out with her, sets a great example :)

[@OptOutofGunControl]

💯

[@DrKevGuitar]

Toto's two great "lead" singers were Bobby Kimball and Joseph Williams. For Bobby's best singing, I'd suggest "Rosanna" (and the pre-chorus harmonies rare magic!) or "Caught in the Balance". And for Joe "Stop Loving You".

[@TheOligoclonalBand]

"Stop Loving You" also has a Jon Anderson cameo. I love the Lukather era musically, but in terms of vocals, Stop Loving You is really at the topo.

[@adamsjoberrg]

You have to give it to Fergie Fredriksen though. I was personally under the impression that most people agreed with me on that one until I read this comment section.. :) "Isolation" is an incredibly well sung album.

[@ivanporcayo0]

Toto - White Sister, 35th Anniversary in Poland (LIVE) Toto - King of the World 2007 (LIVE) Very good performances by 2 legendary Toto singers

[@wrightsublette1701]

Absolutely review White Sister.

[@jonmaxwell7143]

Hold the Line would be a great one to take a deeper dive into.

[@andyf.3371]

one of the best incarnations of Toto and one of their best live video performances. I have memorized this entire concert. Many bright spots, lots of energy, White Sister is a standout. Bobby sings lead on it and pulls out all the stops. Many congratulations on your new addition Elizabeth. Happy for you. When Bobby was in the band, his passion was infectious. He sang with wild abandon. Thats a compressor effect on the bass.

[@JimPryde]

Toto are a must-see live band. I have seen them 3 times throughout the years, and their show is astounding.

[@Adam_Le-Roi_Davis.]

Elizabeth one track of theirs which is often overlooked but is excellent, is "Georgy Porgy" feat' Cheryl Lynn from 1978 the 12" version is best it has Soul, Funk, and Jazzy elements. I also recommend "Hold the Line" and "Roseanna" by them.

[@DanMcClinton]

Off the same album as Georgy Porgy is "I'll Supply the Love" which I've always felt rocks harder than Hold The Line. I recommend Georgy Porgy too.

[@erickinfantas2564]

Dear Elizabeth, I’ve been a subscriber and been following you since the Innovox days and the "types of sopranos, coloratura" days, remember? Your hair color was almost red! Great content. Love your Deep Purple reactions. But I had always been wondering, "When more Queen?", and "When, Toto?’, my two favorite bands. Thank you for reacting to this! To me , this is the best version of "Africa". ”ROSANNA”. I’m going to agree with the comment no. 1 here. The dilemma is what version, the live or studio. They’re both great, both the 1981 Los Angeles recording and the live version of this very concert in Amsterdam. There are several great versions, but this 25th ann. is the best. Let’s see, Elizabeth 😀: STUDIO: The horn section! Even with a baritone sax! It’s awesome. The trombone player was Jimmy Pankow from Chicago. The other horns, Jim Horn, Jerry Hey, Tom Scott, Gary Grant, they were guys who worked with the great and already dearly missed +Quincy Jones (RIP), and later on, one year later, would be all over Thriller. So, you will miss that on the live one. Lenny Castro, percussionist. He and his congas add so much, so much to the groove of the song. You will miss that on the live. Steve Porcaro, synths. In the studio, there are so many synth sounds , so many. When I first heard that keys solo as a kid, it blew my mind… and I’ve been a keyboardist all my life! Paich does something close in the live, but it’s not the same. Bobby Kimball’s voice is top shape. In the studio, he killed. Even though he was deep in drugs and in actual very serious problems with the law during those 1981 sessions, he was singing like no one could. In 2003, age, time… you know. The over all mix of the vocals. It’s all balanced and nice. In the live, when they get to the refrain, Luke’s vocal part sticks out in the mix of those harmonies. He’s singing at the top of his range, almost yelling. He sounds great, just too loud in the mix. LIVE IN AMSTERDAM: the best version. The raw passion and euphoria is the same as the one in the studio. But the end , that outro, again, just like in " Africa", makes this "Rosanna" performance the best. The piano solos!! I don’t wanna spoil it, but there’s more than one person soloing on that piano!! Then later on, they go to another fast upbeat song of theirs, and then they come back to Rosanna. It’s so much fun to see them perform. It’s truly the best. it’s up to you, dear Elizabeth. I wish we could see you watch both, studio and then live 😁 thanks for reacting to my favorite band. Say hola to the family! 👋🏽 😊

[@spamwagon]

1) Rosanna, for sure, is a must for you to analyze. 2) Sorry if this is redundant, but David Paich wrote this song simply after seeing a documentary, on Nat. Geographic or some other nature channel, about the plains of Africa and the wildlife there. Amazing emotionally evocative imagery. Listening to the beautiful, thick harmonies always chokes me up and brings tears to my eyes. And as a 63 yr old lifelong drummer (and singer), Africa's complex, syncopated rhythms touch my soul.

[@tombodet7918]

I agree with the c omments below. Rosanna and Hold the Line !

[@6ixslinger66]

Africa is from Toto IV... that entire album is a must!

[@briansitler42]

Toto members were already VERY well known and respected, as they were the studio band for many artists and were in high demand. They played on everything from Steely Dan to Michael Jackson's Thriller album. People in the industry knew Toto was already the best of the best in the studio and soon they became top tier stage performers as well. I remember in the 80's when we talked about different bands, when it came to the question of what band is actually the best there was no debate. Toto outclassed everyone by not only having the catching hit songs, but by doing it with complexities that no one else could begin to touch. "Rosanna" is one of the best examples of a massive hit, but you'll RARELY see a cover band ever try it and I love it when they do because they nearly always take short cuts, omit the hard parts, or mess it up entirely. Every single one of these guys was insanely talented. After Rosanna - give "Pamela" a listen. It wasn't fair how good they were!

[@karenkayrowe]

Huge Toto fan for decades. My all time favorite song of theirs musically is “Waiting for Your Love.” The arrangement, vocal and instrumental blends are near perfection. ❤️❤️

[@fjmoralesv1]

Such a great song! 👍

[@evensongproductions]

One of Bobby Kimball's best performances.

[@eurekayess]

Agreed!

[@earlperkins5244]

Two recommendations: "Rosanna" and "I Won't Hold You Back" . . .these are simply awesome!

[@t-man78]

Yes! I won't hold you back is such a beautiful (and sad) ballad - and if you want to hear great harmonies, this is the one! 😊

[@steveisrandom]

I Won't Hold You Back live in Paris 1990 was an incredible vocal performance.

[@marcialavine1272]

Toto has always been underrated- I've loved them since I was a teenager, and love them even more now. This song makes me cry, every time.

[@timothyherman6940]

I’ll Be Over You and I Won’t Hold You Back are tremendous vocalist songs.

[@daveconley2601]

Rosanna for sure. In particular, the drummer is Jeff Porcaro, widely regarded as one of the best session/studio drummers. His shuffle beat on Rosanna is legendary, combining Bernard Purdie’s famous Half-Time Shuffle Groove with John Bonham’s (Led Zeppelin) groove from Fool In The Rain and Bo Diddley’s bass beat. The Porcaro Shuffle in Rosanna is a masterpiece, and the song itself is, as mentioned many times here, brilliant.

[@DavidSoffer-x9v]

I just love Toto because they're all studio musicians from the start and they always play with such precision and whether it's live or recording it's just always so on point! They have fun but there's no goofing off.🎉

[@renyoukan]

Toto has been an underrated group by the "music critics", because they didn´t understand their music. The success of Toto has always be the super talent of each member, first Jeff Porcaro in the drums, his brother Mike in the Bass, and one of the greatest guitar player Steve Lukather. So many songs are must: Rossana, I´ll Be Over You, Stop Loving You, Pamela, Georgy Porgy and Hold The Line are just a few songs you would do an analysis. Congrats for your Channel it´s so fun to see and listen to you.

[@richarddefortuna2252]

That sure looks like Simon Phillips on the drums to me.

[@aronbaumel]

@@richarddefortuna2252yes, Simon joined after Jeff passed away.

[@aronbaumel]

You do realize that Toto IV won 3 Grammy Awards, right? Album Of the Year, Producer of the Year and Record of the Year for Rosanna. The critics dismissed them early on because they were musso session cats which was considered very u cool in the early 80s…. but they’ve since been heralded as all time greats for decades now.

[@jaydemetrick8399]

Hold the Line and Rosanna! They are excellent! The entire IV album has so much vocal harmonies and is truly their best.

[@royrobinson9212]

The look on your face when they all started singing the main chorus together is priceless. Too many bands use backup singers, which can change from album to album or song to song, not to mention they might not be available for a live performance. When the band covers it themselves, you get a consistent performance every frickin' time...unless someone is sick.

[@t.b.m.b.]

The metal cover of this song by Leo Moracchioli is simply fantastic! It is also worth an analysis. By the way, Leo Moracchioli does incredible covers. Excellent musician. It's worth checking out his work.

[@danmabee]

yes, please!

[@edwinlongwell]

His rendition of Hello is really good.

[@stoatystoat174]

Yep, technically very good and fun at same time

[@MarathonVidmaster]

i agree with this and add that it is absolutely essentially to also watch the outro music, which is an S-tier banger in its own right

[@CraigKostelecky]

It's easier to find if you search for Frog Leap Studios. :)

[@luke_bongoman89]

I totally agree with the suggestions here but I'd also suggest I'LL SUPPLY THE LOVE. A great funky rock gem with some awesome vocal harmonies and epic instrumentation

[@gothembadboy1]

Bobby K. Makes this song!!! Bobby K. Impeccable magic!!!!

[@jesusbarraza9683]

agree, Bobby's voice is remarkable.

[@andyschnell58]

WOW I had never seen this performance and loved it. Got sad news today with the passing of Quincy Jones. Angelina Jordan said the highlight of her career, to date, was opening the show celebrating Quincy Jones's 85th birthday, at the O2 arena in London, when she was 12. RIP QUINCY JONES 🙏

[@CJMacaluso]

Hold the line, Rosanna, I Won't Hold You Back

[@rickarkels]

The vocals and syncopation are amazing. I personally find the drummer’s groove is what gets me. He’s always doing some purty shuffle groove

[@MicCostanzo]

Toto are a musicians' legend. As individuals, the band members have played on well over 5000 albums and are part of a sales history that has collectively sold HALF A BILLION records.

[@jkdcka06]

Absolutely. The impact of Toto and the individual band members on music from the 70s and 80s is astounding. Probably not really in her lane as vocal analysis, but a deep dive into Toto and the original members is so very interesting. The Porcaro Brothers immense talent and Steve's contributions to so many sounds in our head. Just wow.

[@MicCostanzo]

@jkdcka06 Absolutely, brother. Amen! A few of Elizabeth's comments hurt a bit when you know Toto and know what a massive history each member holds in the music business and for the culture of his instrument... what an impact Jeff Porcaro has on drummers to this day, what a giant Simon is, that Joe is not only a great singer but also a famous son ;-) ...and of course Lukather - a legend revered by legends. On the other hand, Elizabeth is always very open to such trivia and if she gets behind it, she'll be mighty excited.

[@rosadelosvientossur]

The chorus in this song is sooo awesome! Gives me goosebumps every time... just like Hold the line. Great songs ❤❤❤❤

[@horsesasis4004]

The way they layer in the harmonies in 3 different parts is something I never noticed outside of this live version. First the high part, then a high-mid grouping, then the mid from the key player. Absolutely brilliant stuff.

[@emerje0]

You need to check out the Canadian band Our Lady Peace. They're easily the biggest alternative band to come out of Canada that became big in the mid-90s and early 00s, but aren't grunge. They have a sound similar to the Smashing Pumpkins. Lead singer Raine Maida has incredible range with an effortless high pitched vibrato and loves to play with vowels, often not even forming words. Best example is the song "Superman's Dead" where he transforms the word "why" into "whieieieyeah".

[@taurus19642007]

Hold the line was always my favorite!

[@dennisflint2269]

WOW, love the way you analyze the songs. After listening to this one I went to listen to other versions on KZbin and wish you could analyze them.

[@mikehunt8563]

HOLD THE LINE, TOTO !