I interviewed keyboardist/composer Michael Sherwood just before the official release of 2015’s Toto XIV, and I complimented him on his collaboration with David Paich and Steve Porcaro. I mentioned to Sherwood that “The Little Things” was my favorite song on Toto XIV.
Sherwood laughed and thanked me for the compliment but pointed out that Steve Porcaro co-wrote the song with Allee Willis! An accomplished and award-winning songwriter, Willis died on December 24, 2019. She’s known for her contributions to the Friends theme song, “I’ll Be There For You” as well as “Boogie Wonderland” and “September” by Earth Wind and Fire.
“The Little Things” was Porcaro’s first writing contribution since “Lea” on 1986’s Fahrenheit album, and his first vocal appearance since “It’s a Feeling” on 1982’s Toto IV. The track combines all the elements which make Steve Porcaro a genuinely unique rock artist.
The complex cords and melodic structure is present, yet Porcaro also links in Beatle-like textures, which add a warmth and depth to “The Little Things.” Bassist David Hungate ties in a delicate bass pattern with drummer Keith Carlock’s rim work. Lenny Castro ties various percussion instruments to build the track further.
Porcaro, who produced the song, also utilized Martin Tillman on the cello to add additional colors. Steve Lukather doesn’t play a guitar solo, but rather adds some of his most delicate acoustic guitar work on the album and superb melodic electric guitar licks.
Steve Porcaro’s lead vocals are the best in his Toto career, conveying a genuine connection to the lyrics. Joseph Williams provides a backing vocal expertly mixed with Porcaro, and like the acoustic piano by David Paich. These are initially overlooked as there are so many elements in this song that are uncovered upon repeated listening.
“The Little Things” ranks among the top of Steve Porcaro’s songs, and is my favorite Toto deep cut.
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