Toto Bassist Reveals Ties to Ray Epps, January 6, and Avoiding Cancel Culture

[@shemvonschroeck]

To all of you who have seen my interview with Steve Baker and those who have commented negatively (under the KZbin post), I bear none of you any ill will. In fact I understand and can relate to many of your strong feelings and emotions. It is never an easy thing to hear and see someone in less than a positive light when there is such a deep respect for a person’s talents and well-deserved achievements. Most of you are life-long super-fans of the band, and more profoundly of HIS. It shouldn’t surprise you that I am one of you, and in many ways am still to this day. Like so many of you, for so long I was always quickest to defend (both in my heart and to others) the behaviors I repeatedly witnessed. For much of my time in the organization, I was in denial, made elaborate excuses, and attempted to justify HIS many fits of rage. These were always heartbreaking to observe, due to my idolizing the man since the age of 13. So, I get it. I understand. It’s challenging to digest and process… which is why some of you have understandably taken the now breaking of my silence-almost personally-as some sort of trashing or bashing. To any objective viewer, however, it is clear that this interview was not intended as such. My silence over the last 5 years is indicative of my desired restraint from ever wishing to do so. I walked onto the stage of THE MET PHILLY in Philadelphia, PA on October 20th, 2019, fully aware it would be my last show with TOTO. As melancholy an evening for me as it was, It was the culmination of a committed decision I had made months earlier. For too long the bad had far outweighed the good, and it was simply time to respectfully move on. And I was at peace with it (see my farewell Instagram post from 10/21/19 @shemvonschroeck). Three years, 11 road trips, 219 shows… I had been a part of TOTO long enough to have fulfilled a dream from my adolescence . That said, and with no disrespect nor ill will, I simply did not wish to work with HIM anymore… as was my right. I’m not the first and certainly not the last to make that decision. In October of 2019, after we were told that TOTO was likely to never tour again, and HE suggested that we all go “find new work,” my intent was to quietly and respectfully walk away, having already privately made this disclosure to others in the band. I felt blessed to have been a very small part of the TOTO legacy, felt blessed to have formed some great friendships that still exist to this day, and, most importantly, felt blessed to know that I departed having given my heart and soul to the organization and the privilege it was to serve in it. You would think it would have simply ended there. Yet, sadly, no…. A very wise man once said, “He who is quickest to engage in slander is probably the last person from whom to seek the truth.” It is one thing to be on the receiving end of slander. It is quite another when the slander is blatantly false, while doing damage to your professional reputation and career. From my view, I left on good terms with HIM… even exchanging some humor and holiday greetings in the months that followed. As I stated in the interview, we never had one fight, blow up, nor any major altercation of any kind in my three years working for HIM,….. while cherishing - and still possessing - dozens of communications from HIM stating nothing but high praise for my “monster musicianship,” “consummate professionalism,” and “easy-going” nature (his words). HE was my boss. I did what I was told with respect, determination, and conviction. I had no reason to think there was any bad blood between us. If the man had any dislike for me, I had been given no signs to entertain the notion. If I had been “difficult to work with," I would have been canned after the first year… and rightfully so! But then a change occurred, as I document in my interview. I began receiving evidence of HIS public mudslinging. To say I was confused would be a gross understatement. What’s worse, it has since continued for 5 years. To have heard and read some of the things HE has claimed, my jaw still hits the ground. Beyond the fiction in these claims, some of it is absurdly laughable: (Ex. There is not one other former artist I have worked for to whom I am no longer on speaking terms. NOT ONE. I was with KL for the better part of 24 years, much of it as Musical Director - still friends. I played with DF for 11 great years - still on speaking terms. CC for 3 great years - still friends. With Ambrosia I have been continuously associated for 35 years! And the list goes on…). Come on!! Seeing how quick some of you are to react to this interview, I wonder if you could have remained as silent as I have been for 5 years if similar things were falsely said about you. I certainly realize that people believe what they want to believe; that is their god-given, individual right. But NONE of you were there. I WAS, everyday for three years. If you want to believe HIM and the ridiculous notion that I was some sort of villain within the organization, again, you have that right. But I ALSO retain the right to defend myself in the wake of such slander, at the very least tell my side for the first time. I had NEVER intended to speak publicly about this… but enough was enough! My honest answers to the questions asked of me in this interview would likely never have been stated if HE could have simply kept HIS apparent dislike for me private. On any mature, to say nothing of professional level, there was no need for it. We could have simply gone our separate ways, and that would have been that. I actually empathize with a lot of the negative comments about me under the YT post, and I sincerely apologize to HIS loyal faithful if my telling the truth behind MY TOTO departure offends. To any objective observer, it was never my intent. Since my departure, and even through all the slander, I still have it in my heart to always wish HIM the very best in life. Throughout these 5 years, I have always publicly honored HIM with praise about HIS outstanding talents and accomplishments-worthy of Mt. Rushmore status. And to this day, as has been falsely suggested by some, never has there been the slightest element of hate in my heart for the man. NEVER! In conclusion, I am respectfully putting the matter to rest. My life has truly never been better. My wife and family are my treasure. My career is at an all-time high. As a composer I am doing things I never thought possible… and getting paid for it!! 😃 In the last 12 months I have delivered three film scores, with another still in the works, on top of a host of orchestral arrangements and orchestrations for various esteemed clients and projects. I am right where I want to be. (Ironically, 2024 saw more prosperity than all three TOTO years combined!😮Life is strange). The Lord has been gracious…. answering many a prayer. Gratitude doesn’t begin to cover it. To the fans and all those who wish to further comment, all I ask is that each of you respect the other. Take any emotion out of it, and be open to thoughts or opinions you may disagree with. Be open-minded to things you may not want to hear or read. Don’t take anything personally or too seriously. Show restraint. Above all, treat people how you would want to be treated. I look forward to the continued privilege of sharing my work and art with those of you who have been followers and supporters of what I do. It has been, and ever shall be, an honor. Many blessings, and have a healthy and prosperous NEW YEAR, SvS

[@travel_and_explore_with_BIP]

Amen! 🙏 Well said!

[@SimonaPirone1]

Good for you, you found a way to promote yourself at someone else's expense.

[@RaincloudmusicTFS6]

Stumbled into this, as a lifelong musician and Toto diehard. Thank you, Mr., for KILLIN' it with this band. You did Yeoman's work for Toto. Anyone stating elsewise, needs their eyes and ears examined. Best to you in 2025.

[@gr8dane626]

This is the most sophomoric shit ever. Hardly anyone knew Lukather said anything about you (or even knew who you were, for that matter) until you do that long boring interview and then post this ridiculous reply. Well, now I know. You "monster musician" you.

[@andrewsnyder9536]

Aside from being a great musician, it is evident that you are genuine in your words. All the best to you in 2025!

[@alombardo8194]

Huge Toto lifer here …No question how talented Shem is .. Sometimes things just don’t work out… we saw them at the Tillis center here in New York and the band was fantastic. Shem added spot on bass and superb background vocals. I’ve met and spoken with Luke several times and always found him to be engaging and humble and a sense of humor that second to none .. sometimes things just don’t work out

[@jtdrumshop9301]

Great player but lame to hamg with. Boring guy

[@EvanWagner-d5b]

Shem is speaking his truth. Luke has always been known for his temper, and it’s no secret to those of us who have been around him that his behavior has been known to cross the line. Just because someone is a “hired gun” doesn’t mean their experiences are invalid or less important. It’s troubling how we often silence people when they speak out against mistreatment in celebrity or pop culture circles, as if fame excuses bad behavior. Why should anyone have to keep quiet about how they were treated, simply to protect someone else’s image? Speaking the truth shouldn’t cause shockwaves-it should start a conversation about accountability and respect.

[@travel_and_explore_with_BIP]

Luke used to blame his behaviour on his addiction to alcohol, but at least some of his behaviour hasn’t changed that much!?

[@gerryguitar]

Accountability and respect from the Blaze platform??? oh the irony

[@BrendaScott-w2x]

@@gerryguitar Right??? I responded to this earlier and they deleted my post and all of the others I made here. Freedom of speech only applies to Magatts in their world. Everyone else isn't allowed to speak.

[@moodybg]

Guess what, and by the way (that's my biden impression) your phrasing doesn't invite friendly banter..in fact you're inching us closer to civil war..the election turned out the way it did because the right has been trashed for the last 9 years and the media are no longer trusted..plus the policies are batsht crazy.. Alt media helped win the election.. Anyway enjoy 4 years of "maggotry" ..still waiting to see if the admin will use the same lawfare tactics against their enemies that the loony left did

[@sheeplebeware9511]

There is no such thing as HIS truth, YOUR truth, MY truth. There is only the truth that stands on its own and doesn't belong to any one singular person.

[@ORLOSTguy]

Shem, I appreciate your honesty and transparency of what you dealt with while touring with Toto. I am also a huge Toto and Luke fan from their beginning. I have met him several times over the years, and he was always humble, very funny and a nice guy. I have also read about and seen in videos where Lukather's anger comes out. I believe it comes from his personal life and pain he's experienced but I don't say that as an excuse for him. He's even talked about attending therapy. But I believe life is about making choices and having empathy for others. Luke has not always made the choices that shows an empathic nature. So, your decision not to want to get into the topic of experiencing your challenging time with Toto until now, makes sense. I saw you live with Toto in Portland Oregon August 2018 in a small 900 seat venue and the show was amazing. Your performance, playing and singing was a great compliment to their music. I wish you the best in all your life. P.S. I am not a fan of Republicans at all. But I think that having conversations even with people you don't necessarily agree with an important thing. There are always topics like music that can bond people from all kinds of beliefs.

[@shemvonschroeck]

🎯💯

[@ORLOSTguy]

@@shemvonschroeck Do you mind if I ask, did you ever talk to Paich about his playing on Loggins & Messina's Mother Lode album? I loved that album as a child and just recently discovered that David played piano on it.

[@shemvonschroeck]

@ It was mentioned briefly. I don't recall any extended conversation about it, however.

[@patrickcasey357]

@@shemvonschroeckgreat interview. Thanks for clearing up the Toto thing. Had the pleasure of meeting you in Denver back in ‘95 when you were with Ambrosia. You were telling how much fun you guys were having that David Pack was back in DC with the Clinton team. Haha.

[@ORLOSTguy]

@@shemvonschroeck Thank you for responding. Have a Very Happy New Year full of Joy.

[@stevehatfield3485]

I appreciate Shem's willingness to present his side of why he's no longer with Toto. It's been frustrating not knowing because Shem was such a great fit musically and vocally. We're friends on Facebook and I've heard his music, arrangements, etc. that he's posted there. Shem is one talented guy and never has he given me any reason, at least on social media, to think that he's not exactly the same person we see and hear in this interview.

[@nealmccoyjr]

I'm a massive Toto fan. Always been curious as to what happened to Shem. Lukather has been a hero of mine for 40+ years. He does wear his heart on his sleeve and can be very emotional. That was a really dark time for Toto thanks to the spite of Jeff's widow. I wish all of them the best and hope they reconcile.

[@gregbryan4716]

I’ve run into Shem a few times over the years touring. Love the guy, incredible musician, and does a hilarious Shatner!! Glad to see he’s got his head on straight politically.

[@scottyecora]

All I have to say is that the ToTo line up with Schem, Shannon and Warren was for sure the best of the last 20 years. And I have seen all tours!

[@adamlasko315]

Shem I knew when he lived in Los Angeles, he played in cover band at a place called Pancho's in Manhattan Beach, CA. Team Pisces (Shem) is a talented musician, who is a technician with regards to his disciplined approach to music, singing, playing bass or drums, and one hell of a perfectionist. Shem has some serious credits of who he had played with in his professional career, which is the reason received the Toto gig and his flawless audition. He knows how to play with (high-profile) iconic classic rock bands, plus, he keeps track of who is on or who is off musically. I studied his performances for years when he played at (Pancho's in Manhattan Beach), he was the main driver of the notes, the cues, the transitions of all the cover songs the band he was playing with live on stage. If someone were off, he was like a police officer, who would strike fear in, with his looks. Note, he was in a cover band called (Cops, a Police cover band). I had thousands of conversations with him, he was always passionate, honest, and very aware. Shem tends to be on the spectrum of being deep, with layers of substance. Complex, however, fair-minded, balanced, and represents the (scales of justice & the judge/jury), in a harmonious manner. Shem is extremely sensitive, and cognizant of what is taking place with others with their--intentions, manipulations, deceptions, or illusions. The subtext that Shem is referring to in Toto after he left is based on mutual-respect, and honoring agreements. Not being stabbed in the back, or being thrown under the bus, over nothing musically with his time in Toto. To Shem's credit, he understands individuals who have this reactive influence, that is dark. Keep in mind, there are always going to be certain levels of drama in a working band nationally. Toto had a lot of in-fighting and lawsuits at the time of Shem's (tenure) with the band. No matter what, Shem will always attract high level gigs, because he has the talent for it both as a musician, singer, and musical arranger.

[@JoeyRalston]

Completely forgot about Panchos. Did you ever see him do some solo stuff at Suzy's?

[@adamlasko315]

@@JoeyRalston No, ironically I did play at Suzy's. I am drummer, that lived in Los Angeles from (1997-2008). Worked with a lot of cover bands and toured with some original bands for three years in the Southern California area. Shem was an open book, who commanded discipline, and incredible work ethic. Lots of great conversations about the music industry with him, for he had a lot of insight. Shem was the best player at (Panchos) in Manhattan Beach, for there was this crew that of musicians who were the core, and the lead guitar player & lead singer was super talented but was a nut job. Shem has perfect pitch, gifted with a great ear (sonically). His best talents are singing, playing bass & keyboards. He knows how to play the drums; however, his best work is on the bass, singing lead, or any other part vocally.

[@BrendaScott-w2x]

You trying to get him a job since no one wants to work with him? I wonder why that is?

[@adamlasko315]

@@BrendaScott-w2x No, I have no idea of his current applications or auditions regarding his musical career. Do you? For it sounds like you have all the answers regarding this. Please tell?

[@robinwindsrygg9568]

Toto ended for me after that tour. When Paich, Shem and Steve Porcaro left I did not see the point to attend anymore shows. To me it was back to where it was in 2008; a tribute band with one/two of the founding members. Too many key components gone, and Shem was one of the elements that, to me, helped sustain the band. They sounded great in 2018, and I’m glad we have the tour album to listen back to, with a great setlist as well.

[@markgabriel5797]

I couldn't agree more with your statement! As a huge Toto fan myself, I feel the same way. It's true that Toto as we knew has changed forever, but I'm so glad the music lives on and that Luke is still carrying the torch. To wrap things up, I'll share one of my favorite Steve Lukather quotes from a concert I attended: "It can't really be Toto without a Porcaro in the band." That one has always stuck with me!

[@travel_and_explore_with_BIP]

⁠@@markgabriel5797Right On!! Then he alienated himself from the last standing Porcaro Brother! Imagine if it was at least Luke, Joe and Steve P in the band! With Greg and Shannon! No disrespect to anyone else!

[@jamesbertisch4130]

Deep respect and admiration for Shem, he's clearly a specially talented musician. Also keep admiring Luke as i always did, specially as a guitarist, who keeps his place at my all-time top five. But i think the same way, Robin! I was so privileged to see Toto in 2015, the last tour when anyone could see four original members playing together. Man, that was special! But i've been observing Luke's attitudes even since Jeff Porcaro died. His ego seem to have started to grow bigger and bigger from that point on. The band lineup is changing drastically each tour since all that lawsuit thing came out, and nowadays it is losing it's essence, it's identity...Luke has many contradictions...for example, in the end of the 2007/2008 tour, it's been said by people that Luke, at some point, was looking at the stage and feeling something like "it's not the band i was in", and note there was still Bobby!...yeah, money changes everything, isn't it mr. Luke? how do you feel now?...in all of this Shem thing, i believe in Shem, and i am waiting to see what Luke's going to say...

[@travel_and_explore_with_BIP]

@@jamesbertisch4130 Your comment is spot on Sir! I believe it is exactly the way you’re saying! From that point the arguments and attitudes started and after band members started saying things weren’t great! Also I can’t see the point to see the band anymore! There probably needed to be at least One longtime member more , either S Porcaro or at least Simon, unfortunately Bobby and D Paich are out of the question.

[@iogeek60]

Been super impressed with Shem in every musical situation he has played/sang in. He even answered a personal email from me years and years ago. Shem exemplifies consummate professionalism, humility and obvious physical strength that should damn well set a boundary against immature disrespectful behavior. He has made every artist he plays with better.

[@sjdanthem]

Just a terrific, fascinating interview. I, too, am a huge Lukather fan and will never not just worship him as a musician, but, I can see there being a Jekyll and Hyde aspect to him. I did notice in Lukather's interviews with Rick Beato (and others) that Luke showed what I thought were signs of opiod/painkiller use. He's had that shoulder problem a long time and I think recently got a hip replacement. Whatever is going on, I hope Luke and Shem do eventually have some sort of reconcilliation.

[@ronconrad2867]

Agreed! I like both of them and hope they can reconcile.

[@maymayr9318]

Yes, if you look at some of the interviews that he did during the pandemic, something seems to be going on with him. There’s one in particular, I believe it was a Rick Beato interview, and he looks straight up sedated. It was sad to see. Luke said in an interview back in 2023 that he was struggling with dependency to antidepressants during the pandemic which explained things. He said that he had to go to rehab and has a sponsor that he sees a couple times of week. I also don’t think that the relationship that he was in at the time helped matters either. Hope that provides some insight :)

[@sjdanthem]

@@maymayr9318 Oh that's right. I remember him talking about that now. Thanks! My first clue was in a remote interview-probably COVID era. The forced speech pattern and the head and face itching was noticeable though not terrible. It was concerning because, to me, regardless of his foibles, he's a treasure.

[@leeborracho5695]

@@maymayr9318 I remember reading somewhere it was ketimine abuse. Its all the rage in the Hollyweird circles these days.

[@charliechance8589]

Great interview, Toto and the Beatles rank as my top 2 musical influences. Thanks Shem for sharing a bit of your experience with us. This last election has hammered home the need to leave politics out of conversations. I had bought Lukather's autobiography and was lucky enough to see a show and have him, Steve P and Joseph all sign it. Sadly my hero moment with Lukather was a disappointment in that I wanted to know what Steve was laughing at on the beginning of I Won't Hold You Back on the 25th Anniversary Live album. I thought it would be something not frequently asked about. He dismissed my question saying it didn't happen. My mistake for coming up with something off the wall to ask but it showed me to be careful about meeting your heroes, you may be disappointed. Joseph and Steve P were gracious as can be for the momentary encounter.

[@leeborracho5695]

and he only charged you $250 + the price of your concert ticket for the lack of answer

[@gerrycoogan6544]

Fascinating interview! I don't know much about Toto other than the obvious stuff but I found this conversation extremely interesting. It's nice to hear a top level pro musician who is also a mature adult!

[@LukeKcomposer]

Another fanatic fan of TOTO here. I have no problem with the interviewer, I think he guides the conversation well in my opinion . It is what it is, our superheroes are people too , and sadly this what happened . Still respect to all of them

[@2AChef-n-BBQ]

Being a bass player and one who lived in Phoenix, really dug the interview. Big Toto fan, but the Ray Epps thing really sucked me in. I was in the music industry for 50 years and built guitars and basses for many high end players and Rockstars. The Toto stuff is pretty well known. Steve and Shem, thanks both for the great interview🙏🏼🇺🇸👍🏼

[@TomsonLindquist]

I’m a long time Toto fan and a lefty (American politics wise) guy from Sweden. With all that in mind I loved every minute of this interview. They were so sincere and humble both of them. Both Shem and the interviewer were doing great. Very well done!

[@stevebaker8769]

tack så mycket!

[@KevinWale]

Shem is a genuine guy… everyone at The Blaze are charlatans.

[@zensoothingsounds1147]

Big fan of Toto and Luke, Now a big fan of Shem as well. His transparency and ability to articulate a very difficult situation, Kudos to Shem

[@JoeyRalston]

Shem is probably one of the easiest people to work with. He’s been in the biz long enough to know his place in an established band/artist. I saw Toto 5x during Shem’s era and he was happy to be there and able to be, musically, “with his people.” He’s a good friend and a decent human.

[@mikeyoung1191]

Hi Shem, Great and interesting interview. I did a few gigs with you way back in the day. Looking forward to what’s next. Keep up the good work!

[@barbaraoshea2340]

I saw him three times. Twice in Florida once in Birmingham, Alabama and I actually have a picture with him from Birmingham Alabama. I have been following him since 2016 since TOTO.... I am a huge fan and now a huge fan ofShem

[@geraldhartley]

Shem is a stud. So sad that he was mistreated by Luke. I appreciate his candor and honesty.

[@BrendaScott-w2x]

All lies, the guy is a pathological liar like all of those MAGAtts who support criminals.

[@jeffwalker1593]

I saw Toto live one time. Fortunately, Shem was the bassist. Unfortunately, David Paich had just left the tour which was disappointing, but, even so it was the best show I’ve ever seen and Shem was a standout. His voice, playing and presence was a big part of why the show was so good. Everything he says in the interview was done with humility and integrity.

[@pettersolholm]

Hey, don’t listen to the haters. Continue to be a normal person like you already are❤ You delivered Superb singing and playing for Toto!

[@markgabriel5797]

Shem is a class act. The "flying monkeys" part had me dying.....we know exactly who those clowns are! But, I love Toto they are my absolute favorite. I've seen them nearly 50 times. My don't meet your hero moment was on the final leg of that run... I'm not getting into it, (fortunately it was not toward me) but let's just say it was a bit of a disappointment. I still love the band though, and their catalog speaks for itself. Shems time with Toto won't be forgotten, he played a very important part with them. Luke seems to be a bit passionate at times, But most artistic people can be.

[@aseainfo]

Luke sounds like he has serious anger issues. Toto is a phenomenal band but he needs to get some help and learn to treat people with respect.

[@BrendaScott-w2x]

Don't listen to this Bozo Shem. He's a liar and he better shut his unemployed mouth before he digs himself a deep hole

[@katsarracco1]

When Shem played with Toto, Luke & Paich had to deal with a lawsuit from Susan Porcaro. It was a bad time and the stress didn't show until the end of that tour. It was before the pandemic, which I call "The Before Years". Glad that I got to see Toto with Shem. Shem was great with them - he's right about singing bass players. Not only that, but he is a heldentenor which is a very rare voice type.

[@robbytheremin2443]

"Speculation." To be honest, I trust Shem's hunches more than I trust a lot of people's sworn testimony. Well done.

[@brendascott9664]

I don’t know how anyone can trust the hunches of someone who hangs around with and defends traitorous fascist insurrectionists who support the biggest lying sociopath this country has even seen. Tells me all I need to know about this Shem guy. Sounds like a bitter ole, jealous MAGAtt who can’t get a gig. This sure isn’t going to help! 😂 Meanwhile Luke has played with everyone on the planet and continues to. What does that tell you? If Luke is so bad, why don’t you call up Ringo and ask him why he keeps him in his band for many years? 🙄

[@Bosebase91]

Loved Shem w Toto, and was always wondering what was up and what happened. I know that time period in the band was rough probably for everyone and everyone makes mistakes and doesnt get along sometimes. Hope things are better now! It'd be cool if you played w Toto again someday.

[@tommyibanez3958]

Everything Lukather is as a person is on display in a somewhat recent live video on KZbin where his pedalboard goes out mid-song. His poor tech runs out terrified, goes under the board and frantically starts checking each of the 700 pedals on the thing. So Lukather switched to his B rig, right? No. Plugged directly into the amp? Also no. He just stands there flapping his arms, yelling, and stepping on the non-functioning pedals, which remember, means he's stepping on his tech. For someone who's been touring for just under a 100 years, Lukather scores a zero on 'prepared and professional'. As a human being he scores a negative 100. Even as a dude in a bar band making $100 a night, I ALWAYS had a B rig ready to go- so if this millionaire, who gets everything for free, DOESN'T have one, I can only assume he's looking for things to be mad about.

[@scottyecora]

I was there that day and I can say that you are interpretating when happened. John Gosnel, the guitar tech, was just doing his job, and he did pretty well, and the video does not show that Lukather thanked him warmly after that event. Anyway, Lukather is known to be a difficult person with anger issues, as has been reported numerous times by his fellow musicians, and there is a long list of people with whom he is in conflict business wise. And I say it as a fan of his playing and his music!

[@STRATSAFIRE]

@@scottyecorait’s just slightly disgusting… I blame it on his jarhead dad for not whoopin dat tail more.

[@tommyibanez3958]

@ Here’s the crazy thing, we likely aren’t talking about the same incident, I just looked for it on KZbin and apparently this is a somewhat common occurrence. Which really begs the question of why he doesn’t have a B rig

[@atmos4197]

@@tommyibanez3958common occurrence? I’ve only seen it once. And if it were to be a common occurrence, who would be responsible for that? The rig builder.

[@tommyibanez3958]

@@atmos4197 There are multiple vids on KZbin of his board going down

[@alind369]

I am glad I came across this interview. Shem is a true gem. My appreciation for this exchange is deep. Steve, I hope you feel very honored that he was willing to be gracefully transparent!!!

[@timmaertens1583]

This is one of the best interviews I’ve ever seen! Really interesting music geek stuff, with some compelling political insight, as well. Outstanding!

[@speedypete2112]

27:40 I’m pretty sure he’s talking about Luke. I was at a VIP soundcheck event before a show back in 2012 or something, and Luke was playing his Sammy Davis Jr. guitar. I asked Luke why he had a Sammy Davis Jr. guitar because I was curious about it and the response I got was strange. Instead of explaining the Sammy guitar, he looked at me with a crazy kind of face like he was going to deck me and he said, “Why shouldn’t I have a Sammy Davis Jr. guitar? What is it to you? “ I was like whoa dude. Chill. I was just curious about the guitar man.

[@steveslate3601]

What a great interview!! It has really opened my eyes!! You have my utmost respect Shem!! I wish nothing but the best for you in the future!! You are an amazing talent and love your Bass playing. I admire how you play and sing. I'm also a Bass player but can't sing and play HaHa!! You are a Good man!!

[@STRATSAFIRE]

Was a huge Luke fan; I was set up on a backstage meeting that was suddenly cancelled due to his own pharmaceutical issues (allegedly), and have never been able to listen to them again… but I do understand why people like luke turn out the way they do, having met many in my 31yr career. There goes my hero…

[@jrossi9250]

As a 76 year old bass player with perfect pitch... It was great, and it was a pain. I also played clarinet, sax, etc. and had to adjust my mind to what notes I was playing. Love the interview.

[@allornothingatall6283]

Random observation as I see a lot of talk about Lukather: his autobiography was a big disappointment for me. I just thought it seemed to ‘name check’ famous people, like George Clooney. Who cares? For comparison, I thought Danny Seraphine’s book was a lot, lot better written and more interesting.

[@Miatachick]

I have to agree. Steve spent a lot of time thanking this one and that one. I was expecting so much more.

[@regaltip8A]

I found his book quite depressing. He has an infatuation with death. It could have been so much better. I threw it out after I read it. Disappointing.

[@KevinWale]

@@regaltip8Aso he’s supposed to not talk about the people he’s lost? Out of all those stories, the thing you took from the book was death? Who has the infatuation with death here?

[@HennesysHernandez]

This is a blast of an interview - 🧨

[@sorenland]

Geniuses can be narcissistic and deviant evil people, unfortunately Toto is managed by an individual of this species. I know it from the inside and obviously won't give a name. Poor Shem. Nonetheless, Toto remains one of the best bands of all time.

[@BrendaScott-w2x]

Oh really? Know from the inside? I know from the inside that Shem is a liar and that no one wants to work with him, and he's bitter and blames it all on Luke when Luke could give a rat's ass with this mosquito. Truth is, other musicians told Luke not to hire the guy and Luke gave him a chance anyway. Shem is bitter because he's an asshole that can't get a high profile gig

[@christocr]

I haven't followed Toto for years, so I didn't even realize that Shem was in Toto. But, I do remember him from the years he was in Ambrosia.

[@ronconrad2867]

Shem is a class act and I'm sure Warren Ham is the same. Very disappointed in Luke, but admire his talent

[@mikestillwagon5675]

I once worked with a producer in Nashville. I was raving about Tommy Emmanuel (IYKYK). He mentioned that Tommy is the most normal, down to earth musician he had met in Nashville. He then explained that at that level of talent, there are almost invariably significant personality issues.

[@BrendaScott-w2x]

The personality issues all lie with the liar being interviewed here. You don't get to be a first call studio musician, like Luke, on some of the biggest projects in recorded history by being difficult and unpleasant to work with.

[@daveconnor2748]

Lightening Strikes by Lou Christie! Fantastic arrangement! I still play that for people today! (I'm a writer /arranger.)

[@travel_and_explore_with_BIP]

I’m a life long Toto Fan ever since their first album! Luke became my favourite musician and probably still is! Toto is one of just a few bands I follow who’s had extensive lineup changes! BUT, I’ve heard similar things about Luke before from other band members! One of them also wrote that he would never play with Luke again, following all the negativity and arguments in the band, but a few years later he came back just to leave again! This is just how Luke is, there’s been many examples of this and it’s been documented! If anyone is suggesting that Shem is making it up, then they probably just don’t know! Luke is known to have issues and anger issues! He’s often nothing about things! And I’m not a big fan of Shem, although I think he did a fantastic job in Toto, one of the best bass players ever in that band! He is clearly very underrated!

[@piotrh3881]

Oh, who are you talking about? I sometimes think how Luke gets on with Joe Williams who seems to be a really humble and non-confrontational guy...

[@thetimewave]

I do take what Shem says with a huge heap of Salt. Why would he come on and throw other guys under the bus? Toto usually doesn't do that to other Toto members.

[@travel_and_explore_with_BIP]

@@thetimewaveWho has Toto been the last decade do you think? It’s All Luke!

[@SteveMcFadden-p6h]

@@thetimewaveHave you met Steve Lukather? Have you actually seen him engage with the band or any other person?

[@RoseCityMusicClub]

Very nice band arrangement on your father’s behalf what a blessing

[@debramorgan7219]

It’s a shame that a grown man can’t have the decency to have a conversation. I love Toto but the childish behavior isn’t necessary! Great interview, Shem!

[@CajunQueen47]

This interview was great with Steve and Shem !🇺🇸

[@dieseldust27]

I never thought Stone Cold was at one time, a former Toto bass player

[@shemvonschroeck]

Haha! That's funny.

[@dieseldust27]

@shemvonschroeck by the way Shem, my favorite Toto Blu Ray was the 40 Trips Around the Sun tour. That line-up was amazing and the sound and visuals were great. Love your backing vocals on Lovers in the Night.

[@shemvonschroeck]

@@dieseldust27 Thanks so much. That was such a great period. Those are the memories I cling to.

[@glenbaker-w2u]

first time I've ever watched the blais podcast or whatever you call it the first time I've ever heard of Toto band and first time I've ever hearing of this guy my ears are no longer virgins😂 great interview guys keep up the great work

[@Testing-123]

If you are replacing Joe Puerta even for a minute...You have to bring your A-game!! He is such a great talent so obviously Shem is a high-quality player!

[@shemvonschroeck]

In 1989 Joe P was busy with Bruce Hornsby and The Range, so they auditioned bass players to fill in for him that year. It was never to replace him. I've had the privilege to fill in on various instruments over the years with those guys. It's been a 35-year great relationship... and still on-going.

" Mr. Mr., one of my favorite bands of all time" Well, that's something you don't hear every day.😄

[@JoeyRalston]

I thought the same thing. Although, now I can't get Broken Wings out of my head....

[@darenf973]

When you, the interviewer, are talking more than your guest, you are ruining the interview. I tuned in to hear Shem & his story, NOT you. Ask a question, then shut up and listen.

[@sampowellmusic]

I’m halfway through this interview and I have no idea what you are talking about

[@bellaimages]

I've also followed the band Journey! There is the same personal discourse in that band too. The thing that brings us together is MUSIC! I notice The Blaze Tonight only has 275k followers while others like Rick Beato has well over 4 million and counting as Beato is an excellent interviewer who allows his guests to finish answering question and talk about music. It is the joy of music brings us all together. I highly recommend that KZbin Channel for anyone who enjoys music without the discourse of politics and religion. There are plenty of other more popular channels to find political discussion that is not littered with gossip. Some of these channels even deal with FACTS! There are few facts in this interview except that Toto is a band who has had incredible musicians. May we continue to enjoy the music with out the gossip.

[@wob42705]

Beat it beato boy

[@RockandRollWoman]

If you want just the music, you get that with Beato. That's not what this interview set out to do. I felt I was warned. It's not an interview I need to hear again. I'm not sure what purpose was served with all that negativity after taking the high road and refusing to react for so many years. Sometimes it's best to let sleeping dogs lie.

[@tryintobesoquiet]

Too much you not enough Shem.

[@GuitarGangsta]

Great interview - disregard the haters in the comments!

[@jeffdevries8538]

Other than the Beatles For me it’s Toto, U2 , Billy Joel, Eagles , Bob Seger

[@jonathanhowe42]

Now I'm going to have to go listen to some Toto albums. My favorite group of all time is The Alan Parson's Project - another somewhat Prog Rock type of band, though they also add in the instrumentals which are great as well.

[@regaltip8A]

I worked with someone who toured with Toto as a crew when Simon was in the band. At the time Luke was getting drunk after every show and you had to walk on eggshells when dealing with him plus the killer was married member of the band doing coke and visiting all the local brothels. I lost respect for them after that and Hold The Line was the first 45 I bought as a 12 year old.

[@tylermorrison7051]

I am friends and played music with a guy who knew somebody who played (as a hired gun) with Toto. In the late 2000s, my friend was dating the guy's cousin. She claimed that her cousin left the band after member or members of the band had been detained (for drugs) at an airport in Europe. She also claimed that was the breaking point for her cousin. Who knows, but her relative was definitely a long-time hired gun of the band.

[@regaltip8A]

​@@tylermorrison7051Well the guy I worked with is definitely the real deal as he can be seen in the " extras" of one of their DVDs from the period. He has a lot of integrity and has also worked with other top flight artists over a 30 year career.

[@leeborracho5695]

That had to be Paich or Luke or possibly Bobby depending on the timing. -they were all about that stuff back in the day! Luke was a wild card back then, and Paich wasn’t far behind, especially during his first exit before Greg stepped in to help out. Those per diems sure stretched far back then! So yeah, I wouldn’t be surprised at all if this were true. We all had our share of fun out there (Europe especially). The real question is: how much of it do we actually remember?

[@andersmattisson4794]

Extremely interesting interview! Thanks!

[@michakochanski9058]

After hearing Shem in this interview, i'm very curious what happened with Steve Maggiora, who had to step out from one day... Sounds familiar.

[@ORLOSTguy]

Steve has another band that he is an original member of and is touring with.

[@scottyecora]

@@ORLOSTguy Actually, Maggiora got fired of ToTo right after being fired of that "other band" of which the leading member is Lukather's son, who himself has some history of leading bands (ZFG, The Effect) of which all members left, leaving him alone...

[@ORLOSTguy]

@@scottyecora I hadn't heard that. Like father, like son?

[@scottyecora]

@ORLOSTguy Could be. In Levera (formerly named ZFG), band members scuttled the band one or two weeks after the record's release, and almost the same happened with The Effect, but before releasing anything. In both cases, Lukather's son publicly acted as a victim, benefiting from an access to media his ex band members did not have, so we never heard their version of the truth. There seems to be some pattern there ;-)

[@maymayr9318]

@@scottyecoraI agree! When you look at those interviews that he did, it really reeks “let me get on here and do all these interviews because of my last name and play the poor me card.” When you hear the reasons as to why they kicked him out, it smelled like some controlling behavior on Trev’s end.

[@BrooksysBassCorner]

Saw the show at The Albert Hall in London in April 2018... roses in the garden... the show in Chelsea in London in June 2019, the atmosphere in the band was tangible - still a good show but there was an unhappy vibe and it was clearly evident from the interaction onstage. Can't say I've ever experienced that, from an audience perspective, before or since.

[@xray606]

All you need to know about Ray, is that the Dems and the legal system skipped over a guy who was in video yelling for people to go in, while the same people were locking up grandmas for going in and taking a selfie. Ray was a classic establishment patsy. If he was the tough honest guy he claimed to be, he would have disclosed who did that. But like most guys like him, he was all talk

[@Mattshank-uo6jl]

Wow I had no idea trumpets could be pitched slightly flat! Very interesting. As a lif long avid music fan and musician I found this video highly entertaining.

[@gregoryfrancis3899]

The Brotherhood in the music industry: Just play and keep their mouths shut. Only a few will be given opportunity to speak, provided they don't overstep the mark.

[@danieldevine8588]

Fascinating interview, especially the part about Epps, which humanized a guy that i had seen as a total villain. I hope the full truth will one day come out. Beyond that, i appreciate Shem's maturity & professionalism, and the two men's shared passion for music. An unusual & very cool interview. God bless you both

[@sheeplebeware9511]

I wouldn't hold my breath on waiting for the truth. We still haven't been told the truth on events that are regarded as historical fact.

[@vaughnwesterby5162]

Very very interesting interview! Excellent! 👍🏻🇺🇸

[@jamesdellaneve9005]

Ray Epps segment was around 50 minutes.

[@BrendaScott-w2x]

Yeah, they love the insurrectionist traitor to America and democracy.

[@TennTimes]

Don Felder, Toto, Frankie Valli…..very diverse, and all on my top 20 list.

[@DCToonTime]

Wow, what an interesting and insightful interview! Shem looks more like an ex NFL linebacker than a musician! More than a few top notch artists are emotional basket cases. Sounds like Luke is one of those. Comes with the territory I guess. Still admire his musical abilities but I cannot stand to be around people whose emotions turn on a dime. Kind of like Joe Pesci’s character in “Goodfellas”. I wonder how Luke behaves when he’s on tour with Ringo’s All Star Band?

[@gitzah]

Tnx for this interview, this is what we all wanted to know. Shem was the perfect addition to Toto, so the bs of Lukather is just a narcisistic knee jerk. Good for Shem to have a respectfully revealing of facts.

[@BrendaScott-w2x]

All lies, just like any MAGAtt

[@gdavis2018]

But Ray Epps IS living with himself, it seems. Anyhow, I enjoyed the time spent watching, thank you Shem.

[@alexanderwassberg]

Is this interview about the Shem or the interviewer? We want to here what Shem has to say, not what you like or dislike... get real....

[@stefansundberg8751]

That is one of the worst interviewers I have ever seen. The guy don´t have any sensitivity at all! Interrupting, missing obvious following questions - and above all; CAN. NOT. STOP. TALKING. ABOUT. HIMSELF!!! He ruined the whole interview for me. Poor Shem.

[@bb-gc2tx]

africa was a big hit when it came out in 82-83 then sort of faded away but the resurgence of the songs popularity started around ten years ago

I'm glad I was first exposed to Toto when I was too young to realize how "uncool" they were according to talentless rock critics.❤

[@alicebertovsky2490]

I've heard some things about Luke from his various colleagues. I also observe his behavior on social media and sometimes I think: dude, what are you talking about, what nonsense, why do you stoop to such things!

[@maymayr9318]

He says that it comes from his childhood with being bullied as a kid, a knee jerk reaction I guess. I will say that it was a good move to stop interacting with people on social media.

[@JohnnyPGoode]

Shem Your a great guy and I would love to Jam with you.. GREATR INTERVIEW !!!!

[@quanahthompson6000]

Best singing bass player in my opinion was James Dewar of Robin Trower band.

[@blackridgeview]

John Wetton, sure to be mentioned if we're making a list

[@stefano21022]

Shem is a Great musician. His politics are still an enigma fir me, but hey nobody’s perfect 😂 :

[@johnnymaccool9828]

Musicians are a crazy sensitive bunch, get feelings hurt real easy and can’t handle having their ego deflated , I know first hand 😂

[@briankeith7463]

Not sure why so many musicians lean so far left - I guess it's probably similar to Hollywood...so many musicians that I know absolutely hate Trump - I am a working drummer and always felt like I had to keep my conservative political beliefs hidden or I would lose work....I have no issue with whatever side anyone voted for when it comes to music but I do have issue with the cancel culture

[@BrendaScott-w2x]

Trump is hated because he's a pathological lying sociopath, a rapist, a racist, a misogynist, a narcissistic sociopath who couldn't accept that he lost so his sent his flying monkeys to riot the capital and beat up and killed cops, an immoral bankrupt 34x convicted felon, and a traitor to the United States of America. And so are the people who support and voted for him.

[@Jedizen07]

Love both Shem and Luke. They both earned the rights to live their truths. Sometimes, things just don't work out. BUT, having the host call the entertainment industry as a " leftist industry " is amusing, since the " right " ( namely the " Christian " power players ) tend to employ personnel/equipment/financing/film studios/publishing/audio book deals from these so-called " leftist industry " types such as Sony, Tri Star Pictures, Warners, Spyglass, etc.

[@jb58289]

Great interview

[@jdl619]

I don't care about the todo thing & got me with the January 6th line & ray Eps Bs. Just use a headline that's honest because your headline sucks & frankly misleading.

[@tonyjforder]

The strange part of this, for me, is when he talks about rifts between band members after Paich stopped touring as if it was other than Luke and Steve P. The reason it's strange is because Luke has Shannon back in the band, Warren still in the band, still great friends with Lenny (as far as I'm aware), and of course is still great pals with Joe, so who does that really leave? I doubt X was involved in much of any of it. I'm not questioning his account, just find that aspect odd or maybe I read too much into it. I remember noticing that Shem, who on the first tour was mobile on stage, had become stationed behind a mic stand and queried this on a forum. Somebody suggested a rift between Luke and Shem, and of course we all knew about Luke and Steve P. So sad that those two ended up as enemies. You hear about this kind of thing in so many bands, and I guess that's where the ego and the personality come into play. Have to say I loved that first tour with Shem, and I saw them twice, once at the Royal Albert Hall, which is one of my all time fav gigs.

[@JustinChampa]

In a nutshell, what happened between Luke and Steve P.? I’ve not heard definitively what the issue was.

[@maymayr9318]

@@JustinChampa A lawsuit between Jeff’s widow and Toto (Paich and Lukather) was the straw that broke the camel’s back for Steve P and Luke. Also accompanied by Steve P not wanting to tour anymore :(

[@leeborracho5695]

X and Sput were both fired. Steve Maggiora fired, Tony Spinner,...and the list goes on........

[@maymayr9318]

@@leeborracho5695 I wonder if some of these people are let go to bring other people in…..just curious 🧐

[@tonyjforder]

@@leeborracho5695 Only X of them was there during the period we're talking about here specifically.

[@fmbighair]

I didnt know Stone Cold Steve Austin plays bass?

[@Joesfosterdogs]

Shem is riveting. Seems like a great guy...Luke is Luke...he handled it well.

[@brendascott9664]

@@Joesfosterdogs if you find bullshit “riveting.”

[@cjo2012]

I absolutely REFUSE to believe that Luke is like that.

[@MrDuds1984]

I guess but he was close friends with Eddie Van Halen and he wasn’t a saint of a person behind close doors

[@Dwightaroundyolips]

Pretty sure this guy knows better than us

[@shemvonschroeck]

@@cjo2012 I understand your reticence to believe such things. He was my hero as well. The heartbreak for me still runs deep. But truth has no agenda and it needed to be set straight.

[@EvanWagner-d5b]

@cjo2012 it’s widely known. Why would you refuse to believe something like this about a person Just because they are an incredible musician? Lol

[@BrendaScott-w2x]

Yeah, lots of lies here. I've known the guy in real life for over 30 years. They love to launch a smear campaign on him and then delete anyone's posts who disagree with them. Defamation of character here by right wing extremists.

[@praisedawg7213]

Nobody is perfect…..nobody….we all just need to do better .

[@larslevinberget9558]

I've been a fan of TOTO since 1977, but who the hell is Ray Epps??

[@jankurcek3717]

I don't see a reason why his career would go down. Any serious musician should see his reason, having feet on the ground..no need to talk about musicianship. Keeo it on Shem

[@sorenland]

The hallmark of a good interviewer is to ask short questions and then listen to the interlocutor's answers without interrupting them. This video is the perfect example of the opposite. Here this interviewer gets to interview himself in front of a guest as exciting and talented as Shem Von Schroeck. What sabotage.

[@JM_2019]

I wouldn‘t say that harsh but there were multiple times where Shem was about saying more interesting things when he was interrupted and the talk was moved into a different direction.

[@sorenland]

@JM_2019 Exactly and it was very frustrating

[@KevinWale]

The hallmark of the above interviewer is to pretend that he has no preconceived intent to make the interview a bashfest, and then giggle like a school girl when turning it into a bashfest. Come in man… the guy is literally a traitor, and supported Ray Epps… another literal traitor. They lie for a living on the Blaze. Sheesh I like Shem a lot, but this channel is the last thing he needs to be associated with. Especially after talking about how Luke is smart for not alienating half his fans with political talk.

[@jasonjulius1262]

Would have been nice to hear from Shem and his music career..... 🤷🏾‍♂️ I hope he didn't travel to far for this monologue... smh.. So much potential here man....Wish this interviewer could just hold the line abit..... This has to be done again... please!

[@robbirwin85]

Let the guest talk…your interview style borders on the narcissistic…

[@waynecaudle2204]

He has no idea what he’s doing is the problem

[@Dwightaroundyolips]

Get your own show

[@rksg2003]

@@Dwightaroundyolips I second that get your own show. Obviously the guy is excited about interviewing a former member of his favorite band Toto. Give the guy a break do you not get excited about anything?

[@tylermorrison7051]

I think Steve did a fine job, and I bet his guest would concur. I've heard some talky, dominating interviewers, and he's not one that comes to mind.

[@waynecaudle2204]

@ it’s a political news network not a musical network

[@jdl619]

What a fake headline it's like watching CNN.

[@gerryguitar]

This is a strange interview, it really is.. I don't care for the public airing of stuff, Lukather has his flaws like any human being but the sense of a moral high ground by these guys is frankly horrible..

[@brendascott9664]

Especially when they have NO moral high ground!!! They have NO morals and NO integrity!!!

[@Coowallsky]

BWAHAHAHAHA!!!

[@LiqmcD]

Maybe he is developing dementia or something. Get him checked.

[@quedgeminkey]

This seems like a remarkably off balance interview. Seems to me that Luke is being nailed to the cross for upholding the discipline of what had become by that time 'his band'. It is entirely possible for Shem to be a great bass player, but still be the worst bassist in the band's history - it's not exactly the slight that it seems. Furthermore, when you consider that it appeared that 'Toto' were in a degree of financial stress at the time with all of the legal issues, it is entirely understandable for Luke to put Shem in his place after what would have probably looked indirectly like a threat that Shem would leave . And as for calling out David Hungate as a 'Vile Leftist', that's just pathetic - his father was a Congressman, so it was always likely he'd lean in the same direction. "None of what I'm saying is disparaging" - yeah right!!! Genuinely disappointing effort

[@RockandRollWoman]

When I hear something like - this is not intended to be disparaging - it's usually followed by a barrage of disparaging remarks. And that's what I heard. Oh well.

[@Spike-w5o]

Interviewer talks too much wth😮

[@peterdelaney7061]

It's more like a conversation

[@bb-gc2tx]

kenny loggins billy squier bad company and toto all deserve to be in the rock hall