We are sad to report to SoulTrackers the death of Mike Porcaro, bassist of the 80s band, Toto, at age 59. Porcaro had been suffering from ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, since 2007, causing him to leave the group, which is still actively recording to this day. He became an active supporter of ALS-related charities, helping to raise both awareness and money.
Porcaro was more than just another rock band member, he was a much sought-after studio musician who worked with rock, soul and jazz artists galore, and created a reputation as one of the best in the business. In addition to participating in such big hits as "Africa" and "Rosanna" with Toto, Porcaro worked with popular artists ranging from Donna Summer to Natalie Cole to Boz Scaggs. In fact, his bass guitar can be heard on more than 100 popular albums of the past three plus decades.
We are sad to report to SoulTrackers the death of Mike Porcaro, bassist of the 80s band, Toto, at age 59. Porcaro had been suffering from ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, since 2007, causing him to leave the group, which is still actively recording to this day. He became an active supporter of ALS-related charities, helping to raise both awareness and money.
Porcaro was more than just another rock band member, he was a much sought-after studio musician who worked with rock, soul and jazz artists galore, and created a reputation as one of the best in the business. In addition to participating in such big hits as "Africa" and "Rosanna" with Toto, Porcaro worked with popular artists ranging from Donna Summer to Natalie Cole to Boz Scaggs. In fact, his bass guitar can be heard on more than 100 popular albums of the past three plus decades.
Porcaro's brother Steve, also a member of Toto, announced the passing in a Facebook post: "Our brother Mike passed away peacefully in his sleep at 12:04 AM last night at home surrounded by his family. Rest in peace, my brother."
This is a sad death of an extremely talented artist who touched multiple genres and millions of people during his too short career. He will be missed.
By Chris Rizik
Thanks to Gary Van den Bussche of Disco, Soul, Gold for letting us know