Toto and Friends Honor Jeff Porcaro with Chain Lightning and Josie at 1992 Tribute Concert
On December 14, 1992, Toto and a remarkable roster of guest musicians gathered at the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles for a tribute concert honoring their late drummer Jeff Porcaro, who had died earlier that year at the age of thirty eight. The show brought together band members and friends from across rock, pop, and jazz to celebrate Porcaro’s extraordinary legacy as both a founding member of Toto and one of the most respected session drummers in music history.
Among the standout moments from this emotionally charged event were performances of Chain Lightning and Josie, two songs originally by Steely Dan, featuring guest appearances by Donald Fagen and Denny Dias. Both Fagen and Dias had deep musical ties to Porcaro through his work as a session musician, particularly with Steely Dan in the seventies and early eighties. Their participation underscored the respect and admiration he commanded across genres.
Chain Lightning and Josie were performed live against the backdrop of Toto’s own set, which included core hits and fan favorites, creating a dynamic flow between tribute performances and classic band material. In these Steely Dan selections, Fagen handled vocals with his characteristic smooth delivery while Dias contributed bright, articulate guitar work that complemented Toto’s usual rock oriented sound. Steve Lukather of Toto also took an active role, providing guitar support that helped bridge the stylistic gap between Steely Dan’s jazz influenced sophistication and Toto’s rock foundation.
The concert was not just a showcase of technical skill but a poignant reminder of the collaborative spirit that defined Porcaro’s career. Musicians took the stage not as distant stars but as colleagues united in admiration for a man whose presence had shaped countless recordings. The inclusion of Chain Lightning and Josie in the setlist spoke to the breadth of Porcaro’s influence, linking his work with Toto to his extensive session career and highlighting how he helped connect disparate musical worlds.
Beyond the performances, the tribute concert functioned as a gathering of peers, friends, and fans, all drawn by their connection to Porcaro. The energy throughout the night reflected both celebration and remembrance, with each guest appearance carrying emotional weight. This blend of respect and musical excellence ensured that the event would be remembered not merely as a concert but as a significant moment in rock history.
More than three decades later, recordings from the night continue to circulate among fans, preserving the memory of a drummer whose rhythm and creativity left an indelible mark on rock and pop music. The performances of Chain Lightning and Josie remain highlights, demonstrating how collaboration and shared musical language can create moments that resonate far beyond a single evening.