Eddie Van Halen is remembered as one of rock’s most fearless innovators — a guitarist whose tapping techniques, tone experiments, and sheer imagination redefined what the instrument could do. Yet for all his trailblazing brilliance, Eddie never shied away from giving credit where it was due. And when it came to the band Toto, his admiration was nothing short of glowing.
In interviews and conversations, Eddie famously described Toto as “the real shit” and “lightyears beyond” their peers — words that revealed just how much respect he had for the group’s musicianship.
Mutual Respect Between Titans
The connection between Van Halen and Toto ran deeper than casual praise. The Los Angeles music scene of the late ’70s and early ’80s was a close-knit world, and the members of Toto — especially guitarist Steve Lukather — became close friends of Eddie’s.
Lukather has often spoken about their bond, recalling late-night jam sessions, studio hangouts, and Eddie’s generosity with gear and advice. The admiration went both ways: just as Eddie marveled at Toto’s technical brilliance and songwriting versatility, Lukather frequently hailed Eddie as a once-in-a-lifetime guitar force.
Why Eddie Saw Toto as “Lightyears Beyond”
While many rock fans knew Toto for hits like Africa and Hold the Line, Eddie zeroed in on the band’s sheer musicianship. Composed largely of session pros — Lukather, David Paich, Jeff Porcaro, and others — Toto had a reputation in the industry as being among the most technically gifted groups alive.
To Eddie, their precision, groove, and versatility set them apart. Where many rock acts leaned on showmanship, Toto could shift effortlessly between pop hooks, jazz-influenced harmonies, and complex arrangements. That depth, Eddie believed, put them “lightyears beyond” most bands of their era.
Brothers in Innovation
Both Van Halen and Toto helped define a California sound in the early 1980s — slick yet daring, radio-friendly yet musically adventurous. The respect Eddie held for Toto wasn’t just about chops; it was about shared spirit. Like Van Halen, Toto weren’t afraid to push boundaries and blend styles, all while keeping the music accessible to millions.
A Legacy of Admiration
Eddie Van Halen’s love for Toto stands as a reminder that even the greatest guitar hero of his generation had heroes of his own. Calling them “the real shit” wasn’t just a casual compliment — it was the ultimate seal of approval from a man whose own artistry inspired countless others.
For fans, it’s proof of the mutual admiration that quietly linked two of the era’s most iconic bands. And for Toto, it was a validation from one of rock’s most important voices: Eddie Van Halen himself.
