Steve Lukather has been a major influence on my playing abilities since the 80's. I've spent many hours practicing to Toto albums and trying to nail his guitar feel. He uses flash where it's needed, and yet can say so much with just playing two notes. "Luke" as he's called by his friends, has always hit that emotional spot musically.
Ricky Z (Zahariadez), who I knew as a bandmate and fellow music major student at Cal State San Bernardino between '84-'87 also had that same impression on me. I was always chasing Rick as far as improving my playing skills. Rick could play anything, any style, any time, at the drop of a hat. Rick was and still is a monster on stage. He plays effortlessly but still can make the best "rock face" at any moment.
I found out today that Rick was tapped to tour with Steve Lukather and he just got back from a European tour. Rick says he's having a blast touring with Luke. They will be starting a US tour in a couple of weeks. It's amazing to see fellow musicians take off while I sit here plugging away at normal life. I'm jealous and proud all at the same time.
Here's a clip from their tour. Ricky is the one on the left of the frame (Luke's right). That steel guitar sound is Ricky simulating a pedal steel on guitar. Nice. Beware, Luke drops the "F" bomb near the end of the song so watch out for kiddies ears.
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