Simon Phillips

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Simon Phillips quit Toto?

Why did Simon Phillips quit Toto? Simon Phillips, the renowned British drummer, decided to leave Toto in 2014 after a remarkable 21-year tenure with the band. The primary reason cited for his departure was personal and professional commitments, particularly his desire to focus more on his solo career and other musical projects. Phillips also expressed the need to spend more time in Europe and Japan, where he had numerous collaborations and recording commitments. His exit marked the end of an era, as Phillips had been a vital part of Toto's rhythm section since 1992, following the passing of original drummer Jeff Porcaro. During his time with Toto, Phillips contributed to iconic albums and tours, helping to shape the band's evolving sound. Fans and fellow musicians have praised his technical prowess and versatility, which helped keep Toto's music dynamic. Despite leaving the band, Simon Phillips remains on good terms with his former bandmates and continues to be celebrated for his extraordinary contributions to Toto's legacy.

Where does Simon Phillips live?

Where does Simon Phillips live? Simon Phillips, the esteemed rock and pop drummer, currently resides in Los Angeles, California. While he originally hails from London, England, Phillips relocated to the United States to facilitate his prolific career in the global music industry. Los Angeles serves as an ideal base for his professional activities, given its vibrant music scene and proximity to top recording studios and musicians. However, Phillips also maintains strong ties to Europe and spends considerable time traveling between the US, the UK, and Japan for various projects, tours, and recording sessions. His cosmopolitan lifestyle reflects his status as an internationally sought-after session drummer and producer. Living in Los Angeles allows Simon Phillips to collaborate with a wide range of artists across genres, continue his solo work, and participate in educational clinics and masterclasses. This strategic location has played a key role in Phillips' ability to sustain his dynamic and diverse career in the ever-evolving music industry.

Who are the members of the Simon Phillips band?

Who are the members of the Simon Phillips band? The Simon Phillips band, often performing under the moniker "Simon Phillips Protocol," features a rotating lineup of world-class musicians, handpicked by Phillips for their technical mastery and unique sound. For Protocol's most recent iterations, the core members have included Simon Phillips on drums, Ernest Tibbs handling bass duties, Otmaro Ruiz on keyboards, and Alex Sill on guitar. Previous lineups have featured notable musicians such as Greg Howe (guitar), Steve Weingart (keyboards), and Andy Timmons (guitar), among others. The band is known for blending rock, jazz, fusion, and pop elements, showcasing each member's virtuosity and improvisational skills. Protocol has released several critically acclaimed albums, such as "Protocol II," "Protocol III," and "Protocol IV," highlighting the cohesive yet adventurous spirit of the ensemble. Simon Phillips' leadership and collaborative approach make his band a must-see for fans of progressive rock and fusion, offering electrifying live performances and innovative studio recordings.

Did Simon Phillips play for Toto?

Did Simon Phillips play for Toto? Yes, Simon Phillips played for Toto, joining the legendary rock band in 1992 after the untimely passing of original drummer Jeff Porcaro. Phillips served as Toto's primary drummer for over two decades, contributing to both studio albums and world tours. His first recorded appearance with Toto was on the 1992 album "Kingdom of Desire," and he continued to play on subsequent releases such as "Tambu," "Mindfields," and "Falling in Between." Phillips' drumming brought a new level of technical precision, creativity, and energy to the band's sound, earning him widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike. He was an integral member during Toto's major tours and live recordings, including the celebrated "Livefields" and "25th Anniversary: Live in Amsterdam" albums. Phillips' tenure with Toto helped sustain the band's global popularity and musical evolution, making him one of the most respected and influential drummers in the group's storied history.

Who has Simon Phillips played with?

Who has Simon Phillips played with? Simon Phillips boasts an impressive career as one of the most sought-after drummers in the rock and pop genres, having played with a stellar array of musical legends. In addition to his long-standing role with Toto, Phillips has collaborated with The Who, Jeff Beck, Mick Jagger, Pete Townshend, Judas Priest, Tears for Fears, and Mike Oldfield, among many others. His versatility and technical skill have made him a top choice for both studio sessions and live performances, spanning genres from rock and pop to jazz fusion and progressive music. Phillips has also worked extensively as a solo artist and with his own band, Protocol, showcasing his compositional talents and drumming prowess. His impressive discography reflects collaborations with artists such as Al Di Meola, Stanley Clarke, and Hiromi Uehara, underscoring his reputation as a world-class musician. Simon Phillips' dynamic drumming and adaptability have solidified his standing as an influential figure in contemporary music.