$90 Million
What is Steve Lukather’s net worth?
Steve Lukather is an award-winning American singer-songwriter who has a net worth of $90 million
Steven Lee Lukather, an American guitarist, singer, songwriter, arranger, and producer, holds the distinction of being the only continuous founding member of the rock band Toto. He is a well-regarded session musician, contributing to over 1,500 albums across various genres and artists. His session work started in the 1970s, most notably on Boz Scaggs’ albums and Michael Jackson’s Thriller. Lukather has also released nine solo albums, with “Bridges” being the latest as of June 2023.
| Category | Steve Lukather net worth |
|---|---|
| Richest Celebrities | Rock Stars |
| Net Worth | $90 Million |
| Date of Birth | Oct 21, 1957 (66 years old) |
| Place of Birth | San Fernando Valley |
| Gender | Male |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (1.74 m) |
| Profession | Singer |
| Nationality | United States of America |
Lukather’s guitar style, influenced by rock and jazz musicians, is characterized as “melodic and intense.” He has shifted from heavy studio effects to a preference for cleaner tones and minimal processing. His primary instrument is a signature Ernie Ball Music Man electric guitar, along with Yamaha and Ovation Adamas series acoustic-electric guitars.
Early Life
Born on October 21, 1957, in San Fernando Valley, California, Lukather was immersed in the entertainment industry through his father, who worked at Paramount Studios. He initially played keyboards and drums before teaching himself guitar at seven. The Beatles, particularly George Harrison, greatly influenced him. During high school, he met future Toto members and honed his craft under jazz guitarist Jimmy Wyble. His career ambitions were further shaped by Jeff Porcaro, leading to his early work with Boz Scaggs and the formation of Toto.
Toto
Lukather’s role in Toto has been multifaceted; he’s the band’s lead guitarist, composer, and a vocalist. With Toto, he’s won three Grammys. His leadership role expanded after Jeff Porcaro’s death in 1992. Despite numerous lead vocalists over the years, Lukather often took on vocal duties, particularly on the albums “Kingdom of Desire” and “Tambu.” His songwriting contributions increased over time, and he played a key role in Toto’s evolution, including the band’s brief disbandment and reunions for touring and new albums.
Session Work
Lukather became a sought-after session guitarist in Los Angeles during the ’70s and ’80s, performing with artists like Aretha Franklin and Warren Zevon. His session work has slowed, but his contributions have left a significant mark, including on Michael Jackson’s Thriller and records by Lionel Richie, Richard Marx, and others.
Solo Albums
Lukather’s solo career began with “Lukather” in 1989 and has since released a total of nine solo studio albums. His work showcases a range of musical influences, with notable collaborations across his discography. His Christmas album “Santamental” featured guitar legends like Eddie Van Halen and Slash. His latest albums, “I Found the Sun Again” and “Bridges,” reflect his enduring solo creativity.
Side Projects
Beyond Toto and solo work, Lukather has been involved in numerous side projects like Los Lobotomys and has toured with musicians like Larry Carlton and Joe Satriani. He’s also a member of Ringo Starr’s All Starr Band, contributing to educational materials, and performs with side bands like Nerve Bundle.
Musical Style and Equipment
Lukather’s style is deeply rooted in blues-rock and jazz fusion. While he once relied on effects, he now prefers a cleaner sound with minimal studio processing. His equipment includes Music Man guitars, specifically the “Luke” model, and he has used EMG and DiMarzio pickups. He also plays Yamaha acoustic-electric guitars and has a detailed equipment list on his website.
