Never Walk Alone

The song "Never Walk Alone" by Los Lobotomys (featuring Steve Lukather) from the 1994 album Candyman is a soulful, blues-infused track that showcases the raw energy of the band's live recording approach. According to Steve Lukather, the album was recorded 90% live, with minimal overdubs, capturing the spontaneous chemistry of the musicians. In a 1993 interview quoted on his official website, Lukather noted that the track was a collaborative effort with keyboardist David Garfield, emphasizing the song's emotional depth and extended instrumental sections. The song, clocking in at over nine minutes, features Lukather's signature guitar work and became a staple in live performances during a 1994 tour, including a filmed performance at Germany's Ohne Filter Studio on June 29, 1994. A fan post on the Steve Lukather Fans Facebook group described the song as a "heart-wrenching journey," highlighting its resonance with audiences for its introspective lyrics and dynamic saxophone by Larry Klimas.

Another piece of trivia comes from a rare anecdote shared during a 1994 tour interview, where Lukather mentioned that "Never Walk Alone" was inspired by the camaraderie among the Los Lobotomys members, a group of close-knit session musicians who often played together in Los Angeles clubs. The track's live recording at Capitol Studios, as noted on Discogs, allowed the band to channel this bond, with Simon Phillips' drumming and David Paich's organ adding to the song's rich texture. Fans on the Steve Lukather X account have occasionally shared clips of the 1994 performance, praising the song's improvisational feel. The Toto and Steve Lukather Fanclub website also mentions that the song was a favorite among "Zoo Freaks" for its fusion of jazz, blues, and rock, making it a perfect fit for the hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station.

Steve Lukather, the driving force behind Los Lobotomys, began his career in the 1970s as a session guitarist in Los Angeles. Born on October 21, 1957, in San Fernando Valley, California, Lukather's biography on his official website details how he started playing guitar at age seven, inspired by The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix. By his teens, he was honing his skills in high school bands and caught the attention of industry veterans. His big break came when he co-founded Toto in 1977 with David Paich, Jeff Porcaro, and others, blending pop, rock, and progressive elements. Lukather's versatility made him a sought-after session musician, playing on albums by artists like Boz Scaggs, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Michael Jackson, as noted in a Last.fm bio. His reputation for delivering flawless takes in the studio earned him the nickname "Luke," and his work with Los Lobotomys, a side project formed with David Garfield, allowed him to explore a harder-edged, jazz-rock sound.

Lukather's journey from a young guitarist to a rock legend is well-documented on his social media platforms, where he shares stories and interacts with fans. His Facebook page often posts throwback photos from the Candyman era, while his Instagram features behind-the-scenes glimpses of his studio work. On X, Lukather engages with fans, occasionally responding to questions about Los Lobotomys and Candyman. Fans can connect through the Steve Lukather Fans Facebook group, a vibrant community sharing rare recordings and tour memories. The Toto and Steve Lukather Fanclub website offers detailed discographies and fan stories, making it a hub for Zoo Freaks and others celebrating Lukather's legacy.