Steve Lukather said he would run naked if “Africa” ever became a hit

Legendary guitarist Steve Lukather talked about the success of Toto’s “Africa” on No Guitar Is Safe Podcast.

Read what he said:

“[In the ’70s] they just ignored us like we didn’t exist. The guy who co-wrote my book with me, Paul Rees – he was the editor at Q Magazine – he said that he wasn’t allowed to write about us, use our names.

steve lukather

“Like, [Michael Jackson’s] ‘Thriller’ is really the biggest record in history, which we were a big part of [Steve played guitar on three tracks and bass on one, drummer Jeff Porcaro performed on four tracks, keyboardist Steve Porcaro played synthesizers on three tracks and co-wrote ‘Human Nature’], and nobody ever acknowledged us. And I’m not saying this as a ‘poor, pitiful me,’ because that would be ridiculous.

“I had an incredible career. If I died today I’d be fine. I don’t wish for an award, I don’t wish for something I don’t have.

“I just wish that somebody would take it a little bit more seriously rather than just ‘that joke ‘Africa’ band.’ Because that’s what some people think we are.

“And that was the weirdest tune we’ve ever cut in our whole lives. I said I’d run naked down Hollywood Boulevard mid-day if that song was ever a hit.”

Rafael Polcaro: I'm a Brazilian journalist who always loved Classic Rock and Heavy Metal music. That passion inspired me to create Rock and Roll Garage over 6 years ago. Music has always been a part of my life, helping me through tough times and being a support to celebrate the good ones. When I became a journalist, I knew I wanted to write about my passions. After graduating in journalism from the Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, I pursued a postgraduate degree in digital communication at the same institution. The studies and experience in the field helped me improve the website and always bring the best of classic rock to the world! MTB: 0021377/MG