Meeting a Legend
Steve Lukather, the acclaimed guitarist from Toto, recently shared a heartwarming story about a remarkable encounter with his musical idol, George Harrison, which occurred in the early 1990s.
In an interview with Guitar World, Lukather recounted the chain of events that led to meeting the former Beatle just days before a tribute concert dedicated to Jeff Porcaro, Toto’s cherished drummer and co-founder.
With deep appreciation, Lukather approached Harrison and expressed how profoundly the musician’s work had influenced his own career.
To his amazement, he found Harrison to be not only approachable but also filled with warmth and a great sense of humor, making their interaction truly unforgettable.
In a lighthearted moment, Lukather even suggested leaving tickets for Harrison to attend the upcoming concert, all the while doubting that the legendary artist would take him up on it.
An Unexpected Surprise
To his surprise, Harrison decided to attend the tribute concert.
The experience culminated in a shared moment on stage that included the iconic Eddie Van Halen—a memory that Lukather treasures deeply.
As they prepared backstage, excitement hung in the air.
Then, a crew member’s announcement sent a jolt of anticipation through the room: someone from Liverpool was there to see Lukather.
When the door opened to reveal Harrison, everything changed; having a Beatle in the room is a truly unique experience.
A Lasting Bond
The two musicians shared a special moment when Lukather offered Harrison his coveted 1959 Gibson Les Paul guitar.
Just the act of holding the instrument instantly heightened its significance in Lukather’s eyes.
He beamed with pride at the thought of pictures capturing Harrison playing his guitar, knowing that those moments were now etched in his mind forever.
This encounter was not just a fleeting moment; it forged a lasting bond through their shared love of music.
Lukather made a heartfelt promise never to part with that beloved guitar, intending instead to pass it on to his son, Trev, who is also a gifted guitarist.
This touching experience highlights how music can connect people across generations and ignite creativity in unexpected ways.
As they reminisced about their musical journey, Lukather reflected on how the struggles they faced, including a gear crisis and musical triumph, shaped their artistry and resilience.
Each note played on that guitar carried the weight of their memories, serving as a reminder of the powerful legacy they were creating together.
In passing it down to Trev, Lukather was not just bequeathing an instrument, but a rich tapestry of experiences that would inspire the next generation.