Toto announced their return with a new line-up that will only Steve Lukather (Guitar) and Joseph Williams (Vocals) of the previous one. A global tour will be scheduled soon. The information was shared by the guitarist presenting the new band that still will have John Pierce (Bass/ Ex-Huey Lewis), Robert “Sput” Searight (Drums/ Ex-Ghost-note), Steve Maggiora (Keyboards/ Ex-Elvis), Dominique Taplin (Keyboards/ Ex-Prince) and Warren Ham (Ex-Ringo Starr multi-instrumentalist and vocalist). It will be Toto’s fifteenth version of the band since they beggining.
Steve Lukather talked about the new Toto line-up, saying:
“We could not be more at peace with this move. There is a refreshing, optimistic enthusiasm to step in to the future. At this moment, Joe and I are the only long-tenured members of the band that want to be on the road continuing to bring music to our multi-generational fan base. I’ve spent almost four and a half decades of my life as the only original member who never missed a show or an album nurturing this legacy while enabling the music to continually exist in the live concert setting.”
“That is something I’ll never stop doing.’The Dogz Of Oz’ global tour offers a rare opportunity to reimagine our personal futures. While simultaneously preserving the deep connection that exists with the audience while likewise yielding continual discovery. The hope is to move forward with the planned itinerary for summer 2021 that will bring us back to our fans across the world.”
He continued saying about Joseph Williams:
“Joe and I have been friends since I was 17, and Joe was 14. During the course of this pandemic we’ve been reevaluating our career and how to move forward. People are either not with us anymore or have retired. We still feel like kids who want to be back on the road as soon as possible. It’s where we live.”
“Joe’s growth as a producer, songwriter, engineer, singer and performer is inspiring. The timing of this move is perfect as Joe is at the top of his game. He amazes me every day. We are enjoying this collaboration, and could not be more enthusiastic about the future.”