Complete List Of Toto Albums And Songs

Feature Photo: Ben Houdijk / Shutterstock.com

Toto was formed in 1977 in Los Angeles, California, was founded by a group of seasoned session musicians. The band’s lineup originally included David Paich (keyboards, vocals), Steve Lukather (guitars, vocals), Bobby Kimball (vocals), Steve Porcaro (keyboards), David Hungate (bass), and Jeff Porcaro (drums). Known for their fusion of rock, soul, funk, and progressive rock elements, Toto established themselves with a distinctive sound that made significant commercial impact during the late 1970s and 1980s.

Throughout their career, Toto released 14 studio albums, starting with their self-titled debut Toto in 1978, which included the hit single “Hold the Line.” Their 1982 release, Toto IV, was an extraordinary success, earning them several Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. Toto IV featured some of their most memorable songs, such as “Africa” and “Rosanna,” both of which enjoyed massive chart success around the world. The band also released a number of live albums and compilations, with notable live releases including Absolutely Live (1993) and Livefields (1999). Their compilations such as Past to Present 1977–1990 and Greatest Hits: 40 Trips Around the Sun have also contributed to their legacy by consolidating their career highlights.

Toto

Released: October 15, 1978

Toto, the debut album by the American rock band Toto, is a remarkable blend of rock, R&B, and jazz that marked the beginning of a long, influential career for the band. Released on October 15, 1978, the album was recorded at Sunset Sound and Davlen Sound Studios in Hollywood, California. It was produced by Toto along with engineer Tom Knox, who helped shape the album’s polished sound that was ready for radio yet rich in musical complexity.

The band, comprised of some of the best studio musicians of the time, included David Paich on keyboards and vocals, Steve Lukather on guitars and vocals, Bobby Kimball on lead and backing vocals, Steve Porcaro on keyboards, David Hungate on bass, and Jeff Porcaro on drums. Each member brought their seasoned musicianship to the project, creating an album that was both technically impressive and commercially appealing.

Upon its release, Toto was met with favorable reviews and achieved significant commercial success. It peaked at number nine on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States and earned the band several hits. The album’s most iconic track, “Hold the Line,” became a staple of 1970s rock with its catchy melody and classic rock guitar riffs, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100. Other standout tracks like “I’ll Supply the Love” and “Georgy Porgy” also received significant radio play, helping to establish Toto as a major new act in rock music.

CD Track Listings:

“Child’s Anthem” – 2:46
“I’ll Supply the Love” – 3:46
“Georgy Porgy” – 4:10
“Manuela Run” – 3:55
“You Are the Flower” – 4:11
“Girl Goodbye” – 6:13
“Takin’ It Back” – 3:46
“Rockmaker” – 3:19
“Hold the Line” – 3:56
“Angela” – 4:45

Hydra

Released: October 30, 1979

Toto‘s second studio album, Hydra, released on October 30, 1979, represents an ambitious follow-up to their highly successful debut. The album was recorded at Sunset Sound, the same studio as their first album, cementing their relationship with a location that had already proven to bring out the best in their musical abilities. For Hydra, Toto continued working with engineer Tom Knox and took on a more collaborative approach to production within the band itself.

The musicianship on Hydra is sophisticated, featuring the same lineup as the debut: Steve Lukather on guitars and vocals, David Paich on keyboards and vocals, Bobby Kimball on lead and backing vocals, Steve Porcaro on keyboards, David Hungate on bass, and Jeff Porcaro on drums. This album saw the band pushing more towards a progressive rock sound, particularly evident in the complex arrangements and the title track’s extended instrumental passages.

While not as commercially successful as their debut, Hydra still performed well, peaking at number 37 on the Billboard 200 chart. The single “99,” inspired by the George Lucas film THX 1138, became a big hit and reached number 26 on the Billboard Hot 100.

CD Track Listings:

“Hydra” – 7:31
“St. George and the Dragon” – 4:45
“99” – 5:14
“Lorraine” – 4:46
“All Us Boys” – 5:02
“Mama” – 5:14
“White Sister” – 5:39
“A Secret Love” – 3:07

Turn Back

Released: January 1981

Toto’s third studio album, Turn Back, released on January 16, 1981, is often viewed as a pivotal moment in the band’s early career. Recorded at Cherokee Studios in Los Angeles, California, this album marked a conscious attempt by the band to craft a harder, more rock-oriented sound. The production was handled by Toto with Geoff Workman, who brought a crisp, direct sound that aimed to capture the energy of the band’s live performances.

The lineup for Turn Back remained unchanged, featuring Steve Lukather on guitars and vocals, David Paich on keyboards and vocals, Bobby Kimball on lead and backing vocals, Steve Porcaro on keyboards, David Hungate on bass, and Jeff Porcaro on drums. The band’s chemistry and musicianship shine through in the album’s tighter, more focused tracks.

Despite the band’s efforts to refine their sound, Turn Back did not achieve the commercial success of their previous albums, reaching only number 41 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album’s lead single, “Goodbye Elenore,” was a solid rock track but failed to make a significant impact on the charts.

CD Track Listings:

“Gift with a Golden Gun” – 4:00
“English Eyes” – 6:06
“Live for Today” – 4:01
“A Million Miles Away” – 4:37
“Goodbye Elenore” – 4:54
“I Think I Could Stand You Forever” – 5:21
“Turn Back” – 3:57
“If It’s the Last Night” – 4:38

Toto IV

Released: April 8, 1982

Toto IV, released on April 8, 1982, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and successful albums in Toto’s illustrious career. Recorded primarily at Sunset Sound and Ocean Way Studios in Los Angeles, California, this album represents a peak in the band’s creativity and commercial success. The production was expertly managed by Toto along with engineer Greg Ladanyi, whose work helped to polish and refine the album’s sound, making it one of the standout recordings of the early 1980s.

The album’s lineup featured the core members: Steve Lukather on guitars and vocals, David Paich on keyboards and vocals, Bobby Kimball on lead and backing vocals, Steve Porcaro on keyboards, David Hungate on bass, and Jeff Porcaro on drums. Their cohesive musicianship and sophisticated songwriting are evident throughout the album.

Toto IV achieved immense critical and commercial success, peaking at number 4 on the Billboard 200 chart. It won several Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, Producer of the Year (for the band), and Record of the Year for “Rosanna.” The album also features “Africa,” which became one of Toto’s most enduring and beloved songs, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The critical acclaim for Toto IV highlighted the album’s perfect blend of rock, pop, and jazz influences, with reviewers praising its melodic richness and technical precision. “Rosanna,” noted for its complex rhythms and memorable chorus, and “Africa,” celebrated for its lush sound and unforgettable hook, have become timeless classics.

CD Track Listings:

“Rosanna” – 5:31
“Make Believe” – 3:45
“I Won’t Hold You Back” – 4:56
“Good for You” – 3:20
“It’s a Feeling” – 3:08
“Afraid of Love” – 3:52
“Lovers in the Night” – 4:26
“We Made It” – 3:58
“Waiting for Your Love” – 4:13
“Africa” – 4:58

Isolation

Released: October 18, 1984

Isolation, Toto’s fifth studio album released on October 18, 1984, represents a transitional period for the band with notable lineup changes and an exploration into more intense musical themes. The album, recorded at Record One in Sherman Oaks and Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, saw the introduction of Fergie Frederiksen as the lead vocalist, following Bobby Kimball’s departure. Mike Porcaro also took over as the bassist, joining his brothers Jeff and Steve Porcaro, who were already integral members of the band.

The production of Isolation was handled by Toto alongside engineer Greg Ladanyi, known for his meticulous attention to sonic detail. This collaboration helped to craft an album that, while reaching number 42 on the Billboard 200, showcased a shift towards a heavier sound, perhaps reflecting the internal changes within the band. The single “Stranger in Town” emerged as the standout track, peaking at number 30 on the Billboard Hot 100, accompanied by a memorable and cinematic music video that further boosted its popularity.

Supporting musicians such as Lenny Castro and Joe Porcaro on percussion, along with prominent horn players like Chuck Findley and Tom Scott, added depth to the album’s sound. The horn arrangements were orchestrated by Jerry Hey, enhancing the rich textural layers that characterize Toto’s music.

CD Track Listings:

“Carmen” – 3:25
“Lion” – 4:49
“Stranger in Town” – 4:49
“Angel Don’t Cry” – 4:24
“How Does It Feel” – 3:51
“Endless” – 3:45
“Isolation” – 4:06
“Mr. Friendly” – 4:22
“Change of Heart” – 4:10
“Holyanna” – 4:17

Fahrenheit

Released: August 1986

Fahrenheit was released by Toto in 1986. This album introduced Joseph Williams as the lead vocalist, whose distinct tone added a new layer to the band’s evolving sound profile. Recorded at The Complex Studios in Los Angeles, the album features a rich blend of soft rock, R&B, and jazz influences, making it one of Toto’s more diverse offerings.

The production, led by Toto alongside engineer Greg Ladanyi, focuses on smooth, clean arrangements that highlight the musicians’ skills without overcomplicating the sound. Notable tracks such as “I’ll Be Over You” and “Without Your Love” achieved considerable success, with the former becoming a significant hit and reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This single, in particular, is often remembered for its melodic intricacy and emotional depth, underscored by Steve Lukather’s tender vocals and a poignant guitar solo.

Overall, Fahrenheit maintained Toto’s reputation for crafting well-produced, musically sophisticated albums.

CD Track Listings:

“Till the End” – 5:27
“We Can Make It Tonight” – 4:16
“Without Your Love” – 4:34
“Can’t Stand It Any Longer” – 4:41
“I’ll Be Over You” – 3:50
“Fahrenheit” – 4:39
“Somewhere Tonight” – 3:46
“Could This Be Love” – 5:14
“Lea” – 4:30
“Don’t Stop Me Now” – 3:05

The Seventh One

Released: March 1, 1988

Toto’s eighth studio album, The Seventh One, released on March 1, 1988, is often regarded as one of their most accomplished works, resonating with the polish and craft that fans and critics expect from the band. Recorded primarily at Record One in Sherman Oaks and The Complex in Los Angeles, this album came during a period of stability and creativity for the band, featuring Joseph Williams on lead vocals for the second and final studio album of his initial tenure with Toto.

Produced by Toto and George Massenburg, who was well-known for his innovative recording techniques, The Seventh One features a rich tapestry of musical styles, including pop, rock, and elements of world music, most notably in the hit single “Pamela.” The album peaked at number 64 on the Billboard 200 in the United States.

CD Track Listings:

“Pamela” – 5:10
“You Got Me” – 3:12
“Anna” – 4:55
“Stop Loving You” – 4:30
“Mushanga” – 5:36
“Stay Away” – 5:30
“Straight for the Heart” – 4:12
“Only the Children” – 4:10
“A Thousand Years” – 4:52
“These Chains” – 5:00
“Home of the Brave” – 6:49

Kingdom of Desire

Released: September 7, 1992

Recorded at A&M Studios, Kingdom of Desire is a harder, more rock-oriented album. It was the last album with drummer Jeff Porcaro before his untimely death. It was not charted in the US but was well received in Europe.

CD Track Listings:

“Gypsy Train” – 6:44
“Don’t Chain My Heart” – 4:46
“Never Enough” – 5:45
“How Many Times” – 5:42
“2 Hearts” – 5:13
“Wings of Time” – 7:27
“She Knows the Devil” – 5:25
“The Other Side” – 4:41
“Kick Down the Walls” – 4:54
“Kingdom of Desire” – 7:16
“Jake to the Bone” – 7:04

Tambu

Released: May 24, 1995

Tambu was recorded at Skywalker Sound and Conway Studios. It marked a return to Toto’s more traditional sound and featured deep lyrics and strong musical performances. The album did not chart highly in the US but found success in Japan and Europe.

CD Track Listings:

“Gift of Faith” – 7:23
“I Will Remember” – 6:06
“Slipped Away” – 5:16
“If You Belong to Me” – 5:03
“Baby He’s Your Man” – 5:40
“The Other End of Time” – 5:04
“The Turning Point” – 5:25
“Time Is the Enemy” – 5:40
“Drag Him to the Roof” – 6:10
“Just Can’t Get to You” – 5:03
“Dave’s Gone Skiing” – 4:32
“The Road Goes On” – 4:25

Toto XX (1977-1997)

Released: May 25, 1998

Toto XX is a compilation album that celebrates the band’s 20th anniversary. It includes previously unreleased tracks and recordings from various phases of the band’s career. This album provides a deeper look into the band’s history with rare material.

CD Track Listings:

“Goin’ Home” – 5:17
“Tale of a Man” – 5:15
“Last Night” – 4:25
“In a Word” – 3:56
“Modern Eyes” – 4:28
“Right Part of Me” – 5:09
“Mrs. Johnson” – 3:45
“Miss Sun” – 5:03
“Love Is a Man’s World” – 4:41
“On the Run” – 6:29
“Dave’s Gone Skiing” (Live) – 5:01
“Baba Mnumzane” (Live) – 1:46
“Africa” (Live) – 10:39

Mindfields

Released: November 16, 1999

CD Track Listings:

“After You’ve Gone” – 6:37
“Mysterious Ways” – 3:41
“Mindfields” – 6:11
“High Price of Hate” – 9:50
“Selfish” – 5:30
“No Love” – 4:35
“Caught in the Balance” – 6:21
“Last Love” – 4:58
“Mad About You” – 4:24
“One Road” – 3:45
“Melanie” – 5:19
“Cruel” – 5:57
“Better World” – 7:42
“Spanish Steps of Rome” – 4:28

Falling In Between

Released: February 14, 2006

CD Track Listings:

“Falling In Between” – 4:05
“Dying on My Feet” – 6:11
“Bottom of Your Soul” – 6:58
“King of the World” – 4:04
“Hooked” – 4:36
“Simple Life” – 2:21
“Taint Your World” – 4:01
“Let It Go” – 5:00
“Spiritual Man” – 5:22
“No End in Sight” – 6:10

Toto XIV

Released: March 20, 2015

Toto XIV, recorded at ATS Studios and Capitol Studios, showcases the band’s return to their roots while integrating modern sounds. It received critical acclaim for its musicianship and production quality.

CD Track Listings:

“Running Out of Time” – 4:06
“Burn” – 4:56
“Holy War” – 5:24
“21st Century Blues” – 6:08
“Orphan” – 3:56
“Unknown Soldier (for Jeffrey)” – 5:06
“The Little Things” – 4:35
“Chinatown” – 5:07
“All the Tears That Shine” – 5:09
“Fortune” – 4:46
“Great Expectations” – 6:48

Old Is New

Released: November 5, 2018

Old Is New features both previously unreleased tracks and new compositions. It was released as part of the band’s 40th-anniversary box set and serves as a bridge between their past and present.