Toto, “We Made It” from Toto IV (1982): Toto Tuesdays

Toto’s “We Made It” is often overlooked, yet the David Paich/Jeff Porcaro collaboration offers so much more than meets the ear. Paich’s piano kicks things off in a jaunty rhythm, which is quickly followed by a bright high-hat and snare backbeat and jangly guitar part. David Hungate’s bass quickly joins the rhythm section with a big punchy feel .

The song moves along with power and precision, but the transcending force in this Toto IV song is provided by vocalist Bobby Kimball. Kimball’s vocals are snappy and joyous. The optimism he displays is infectious, and it’s only heightened by the bridge’s backing chorus of Steve Lukather, and David Paich.

Lukather also gets to deploy guitar sounds which vary from Michael Landau to Brian May in influence, yet they are all unmistakably Luke in execution. Steve Porcaro’s synthesizer touches are tasteful and complimentary, as always.

All of Toto’s little touches, from the tambourine to the call-out vocal touches, conspire to make “We Made It” an overlooked treasure among treasures.

Preston Frazier

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