11 Underrated Toto Songs: Toto’s Gems

Hey everyone, TBone here from Level Tunes! As a DJ and a die-hard music aficionado, there’s nothing I love more than sharing those hidden gems that often fly under the radar.

Today, I’m super excited to bring you a special treat: my list of 11 Underrated Toto Songs. You might wonder, “Why Toto?” Well, while most know them for their mega-hits like ‘Africa’ and ‘Rosanna’, there’s a treasure trove of Toto tracks that don’t get nearly enough love.

These songs showcase their incredible versatility and musicianship.

So, whether you’re a fellow DJ looking for some fresh tracks to spin, or a music lover eager to discover something new, this list is for you. Let’s dive into the world of Toto like never before, and explore the tunes that deserve a spot in the limelight!

Here are the Underrated Toto songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Toto Songs

Underrated Toto songs in a list format:

1. “Takin’ It Back” from the album “Toto” (1978, Columbia Records)

“Takin’ It Back” is a hidden jewel from Toto’s self-titled debut album, released in 1978 under Columbia Records. Authored by Steve Porcaro, the song showcases the band’s early inclination towards a melodic yet complex sound. It’s a fantastic example of Toto’s fusion of rock with jazz elements, and Porcaro’s keyboard work is nothing short of mesmerizing. The reason I chose this song is its harmonious blend of vocals and instrumentation, which sets it apart as a track that should have received more acclaim. It’s a true testament to the band’s versatility right from their inception.

2. “St. George and The Dragon” from “Hydra” (1979, Columbia Records)

From their second album “Hydra,” released in 1979, “St. George and The Dragon” is a Toto masterpiece penned by David Paich. This song stands out for its powerful storytelling and Paich’s exceptional keyboard playing. It’s an underrated track that combines rock with a mythical narrative, showcasing Toto’s ability to weave complex stories into their music. The song also features Steve Lukather’s dynamic guitar riffs and Bobby Kimball’s distinct vocals. I included it for its narrative depth and the band’s skill in creating a captivating musical journey.

3. “White Sister” from “Hydra” (1979, Columbia Records)

Another gem from “Hydra,” “White Sister” is a song written by David Paich and Bobby Kimball. This track is a high-energy rock anthem with a compelling rhythm section and outstanding vocal harmonies. The reason for its inclusion is its sheer intensity and the way it encapsulates Toto’s rock prowess. The combination of Kimball’s powerful vocals and the band’s tight instrumentation makes it a song that should have been more recognized.

4. “All Us Boys” from “Hydra” (1979, Columbia Records)

“All Us Boys,” also from the “Hydra” album, is a creation of David Paich. This song is an energetic rock tune that captures the spirit of late 70s rock. It features a catchy chorus, and Lukather’s guitar work is exceptional here. The inclusion of this song is due to its catchy rhythm and the way it showcases Toto’s ability to craft rock songs with a memorable hook. It’s a track that brings energy and should be on every Toto fan’s playlist.

5. “Lovers in the Night” from “Toto IV” (1982, Columbia Records)

From their iconic album “Toto IV,” “Lovers in the Night” is a piece written by David Paich. This song is a beautifully crafted rock ballad with a blend of soft rock and pop elements. The reason behind choosing this song is its emotional depth and the seamless integration of orchestral elements, which sets it apart from the more popular songs on the album. It’s a track that showcases Toto’s softer side and their skill in creating emotive music.

6. “Afraid of Love” from “Toto IV” (1982, Columbia Records)

“Afraid of Love,” another track from “Toto IV,” is a Steve Lukather creation. This song combines rock with a hint of new wave, showcasing the band’s ability to experiment with different genres. The driving guitar riff and catchy chorus make it a standout track. I chose this song for its unique sound and the way it highlights Lukather’s versatility as a songwriter and guitarist. It’s a testament to Toto’s innovation in the early 80s.

7. “We Made It” from “Toto IV” (1982, Columbia Records)

“We Made It,” penned by David Paich and Jeff Porcaro, is a track from the highly acclaimed “Toto IV.” This song is an uplifting, melodious tune that combines elements of rock and pop. The harmonious vocals and the optimistic lyrics make it a heartwarming song. The reason for its inclusion is its feel-good vibe and the way it exemplifies Toto’s knack for crafting songs that resonate on an emotional level.

8. “Endless” from “Isolation” (1984, Columbia Records)

From the album “Isolation,” released in 1984, “Endless” is a creation of David Paich and Steve Lukather. This song is an underrated gem that features a smooth blend of rock and pop. Its melodic chorus and Lukather’s soulful guitar solo are highlights. I chose “Endless” for its lyrical depth and the emotional resonance it carries, showing a different side of Toto that deserves more recognition.

9. “Change of Heart” from “Isolation” (1984, Columbia Records)

“Change of Heart,” also from “Isolation,” is a track written by Joseph Williams and David Paich. This song stands out for its catchy melody and the seamless fusion of rock with pop sensibilities. The reason for its selection is its infectious rhythm and the way it showcases the band’s ability to evolve their sound in the mid-80s, adapting to the changing musical landscape.

10. “Angel Don’t Cry” from “Isolation” (1984, Columbia Records)

“Angel Don’t Cry,” another gem from “Isolation,” is penned by David Paich and Fergie Frederiksen. This track is a powerful rock song with a strong vocal performance and compelling lyrics. Its energetic rhythm and the emotive guitar solo make it a standout track. The inclusion of this song is due to its robust composition and the way it exemplifies Toto’s rock credentials.

11. “Can’t Stand It Any Longer” from “Fahrenheit” (1986, Columbia Records)

From the album “Fahrenheit,” released in 1986, “Can’t Stand It Any Longer” is a song written by Steve Lukather, David Paich, and Joseph Williams. This track is a vibrant rock tune with a punchy rhythm and memorable lyrics. The reason for choosing this song is its dynamic energy and the way it represents Toto’s ability to blend rock with catchy, pop-oriented choruses, showcasing their musical versatility in the mid-80s.

Fun Facts: Underrated Toto Songs

“Takin’ It Back” – Fun Fact

“Takin’ It Back” is notable for being one of the few Toto songs where Steve Porcaro takes on lead vocal duties. Known primarily for his keyboard skills, Porcaro’s venture into singing on this track adds a unique flavor to the band’s debut album. Additionally, the song’s intricate synthesizer work is a testament to Porcaro’s pioneering role in the use of synthesizers in rock music, setting a trend for the band’s future works.

“St. George and The Dragon” – Fun Fact

“St. George and The Dragon” is a fascinating blend of mythology and rock. The song draws inspiration from the legend of Saint George and the Dragon, adding a mythical layer to Toto’s music. Interestingly, this track is also known for its high-energy live performances, where the band’s intricate musicianship and stage presence come to the fore, making it a fan favorite during concerts.

“White Sister” – Fun Fact

“White Sister” is often praised for its complex time signatures and intricate musical arrangements, showcasing Toto’s technical proficiency. The song’s outro features an intense guitar solo by Steve Lukather, which is frequently hailed as one of his best. The high degree of musicianship displayed in “White Sister” has made it a favorite among musicians and has been covered by several bands, especially in the progressive rock genre.

“All Us Boys” – Fun Fact

“All Us Boys” holds a special place as it captures the essence of Toto’s camaraderie and youthful spirit. The song’s title and lyrics are a nod to the band members’ long-standing friendships, as most of them had been playing together since their high school days. This track embodies the band’s early days and their journey from being session musicians to forming one of the most successful bands of their era.

“Lovers in the Night” – Fun Fact

“Lovers in the Night” is unique for its cinematic quality, which is often attributed to David Paich’s songwriting. Paich, who has a knack for creating vivid imagery through his lyrics, infused this song with a storytelling aspect that makes it feel like a short musical narrative. The song’s atmospheric sound and emotive lyrics make it akin to a musical piece from a romantic film.

“Afraid of Love” – Fun Fact

“Afraid of Love” stands out for its use of the Linn LM-1 Drum Machine, one of the first programmable drum machines used in popular music. This track is an early example of Toto experimenting with electronic elements in their music, a trend that would become more prominent in their later albums. The integration of this technology with traditional rock instruments highlighted Toto’s willingness to innovate and adapt to new musical trends.

“We Made It” – Fun Fact

“We Made It” is often considered an anthem of perseverance and success, mirroring Toto’s own journey in the music industry. The song gained a second wave of popularity when it was used in several motivational and sports montages, thanks to its uplifting and inspirational lyrics. This track not only resonates with Toto’s success story but has also become a motivational anthem for many of its listeners.

“Endless” – Fun Fact

“Endless” is celebrated for its smooth transition between verses and chorus, a signature of Toto’s songwriting style. The song is a showcase of the band’s ability to blend soft rock with a pop sensibility, creating a sound that is both soothing and catchy. Additionally, “Endless” is noted for its lyrical depth, with themes of love and longing, making it a favorite among fans who appreciate Toto’s more emotive side.

“Change of Heart” – Fun Fact

“Change of Heart” features Joseph Williams on lead vocals, who joined Toto during the “Isolation” album. Williams’ involvement brought a fresh dynamic to the band’s sound, and this song is a perfect example of his impactful contribution. His distinct vocal style added a new dimension to Toto’s music, particularly on this track, where his performance perfectly complements the song’s upbeat and vibrant melody.

“Angel Don’t Cry” – Fun Fact

“Angel Don’t Cry” is known for its fusion of traditional rock elements with world music influences, particularly African rhythms. This experimentation with different musical styles is indicative of Toto’s adventurous spirit and their willingness to push the boundaries of the rock genre. The song’s unique blend of sounds has made it a standout track in Toto’s discography and a favorite among fans who enjoy their more experimental works.

“Can’t Stand It Any Longer” – Fun Fact

“Can’t Stand It Any Longer” is a testament to Toto’s adaptability in the ever-evolving music scene of the 1980s. This track showcases their ability to incorporate elements of pop-rock and synth-pop, genres that were gaining popularity at the time. The song’s energetic and modern sound was a departure from their

And there you have it, folks – a deep dive into the lesser-known but equally brilliant tracks of Toto. These songs not only highlight the band’s versatility but also remind us why Toto remains an enduring force in the world of rock. Keep exploring, keep listening, and remember, there’s always more to discover in music!

Thanks for reading.

TBone