Steve Lukather, the longtime guitarist and public face of Toto, has once again clarified why the band’s classic lineup will never reunite — and why the current version of Toto is the only one that will ever exist going forward.
Speaking in a new interview, Lukather explained that many fans still hold onto the idea of seeing Toto’s iconic original members back on the same stage. But, as he bluntly noted, that simply isn’t possible “for reasons nobody can change.”
Multiple Members Are Gone, and Legal Issues Remain
Lukather reminded fans that several key members of Toto have passed away, including:
- Jeff Porcaro, the legendary drummer
- Mike Porcaro, longtime bassist
With essential members no longer alive, Lukather emphasized that a “classic lineup reunion” is literally impossible. Beyond that, he acknowledged that ongoing legal disputes with certain ex-members also prevent any kind of full-scale reunion.
He didn’t name them directly, but previous reports confirm long-standing legal tension between Lukather, David Paich, and former members such as Bobby Kimball and Steve Porcaro.
Lukather Says He’s Keeping Toto Alive, Not “Replacing” Anyone
The guitarist stressed that the modern Toto lineup is not meant to “replace” anyone — it’s simply the only way to keep the music going. He said he’s committed to preserving the legacy of Toto’s catalog, performing the songs with respect while also keeping the band functional, stable, and drama-free.
In his words, Toto today is a business and a brand, something he and co-founder David Paich inherited responsibility for.
David Paich’s Health
Lukather also confirmed that keyboardist David Paich, who co-founded Toto and wrote many of their biggest hits, can no longer tour due to health limitations. While Paich occasionally joins the band for a few songs in select shows, he cannot commit to full tours, further ending hopes of a true classic-lineup return.
The Current Lineup Is Built to Last
Lukather explained that he hand-selected the current lineup to ensure the band remains strong on the road. Members include:
- Joseph Williams (vocals)
- Warren Ham (multi-instrumentalist)
- Shannon Forrest (drums) previously
- Newer members filling rhythm section roles
He described them as “the best of the best” and said he feels “lucky” to play with musicians who bring new life to the music without pretending to be the original members.
“This Is It — This Is Toto”
In the interview, Lukather made it clear that fans expecting a reunion of the 1977–1988 golden-era lineup are holding onto a fantasy.
He stressed that the reality — deaths, illness, fractured relationships, and lawsuits — has made a true reunion impossible.
He said he is now at peace with that, and fans should be too:
“This is Toto now. This is what we can offer. And we’re proud of it.”
Toto Will Still Tour, but the “Old Days” Are Gone
Lukather reassured fans that Toto will continue to tour globally and maintain the music’s legacy. But he was firm: the old lineup is gone forever, and there will never be a reunion tour, a reunion show, or a reunion album.
