Number seven of my ten favorite Toto songs is the instrumental "Don't Stop Me Now"
Lyrics - http://www.toto99.com/lyrics/xxlyrics.shtml
Off the "Fahrenheit" album from 1986 is this gem of a track. Miles Davis lends his legendary trumpet skill to the track. Miles Davis! When I saw his name on the liner notes, I thought it was some gag, or maybe some studio sampling thing. But, it was no joke, the man was present & gettin' it done.
Lukather and Paich are credited as co-writers. A mellow groove guitar lick leads off, followed by piano and a light jazzy touch on drums. Then, Davis rolls in. He really "takes his time", his notes floating in and out of the arrangement. After verses and chorus, Davis takes the outro solo, with a little "scat"-style free form piece. It was a neat close to a brilliant track.
This track sets a great mood - it evokes images of "after six", formal nights out, great company and great times. It's classy and not rushed at all. Fans of Davis' work would not consider this out of place in his catalog. It was a great collaboration.
The band's history of extensive studio work and resultant work relationships made team-ups like this possible. It's a big part of why I am such a big fan. You can't predict what any given Toto album is gonna sound like. Their work isn't stale or pre-conceived.
Next time, number 6 - "These Chains"
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