About the song
“Hold the Line,” a seminal track by American rock band Toto from their eponymous 1978 debut studio album, encapsulates the band’s dynamic blend of rock, pop, and funk influences. Penned by keyboardist David Paich and featuring Bobby Kimball on lead vocals, the song was released as Toto’s debut and lead single in September 1978 under Columbia Records. Its immediate success marked Toto’s entry into the music scene with a resounding impact.
The song’s content is anchored by a distinctive piano riff, crafted by Paich, which serves as both the introduction and chorus, setting the stage for Kimball’s impassioned vocal delivery. “Hold the Line” is renowned for its energetic instrumentation, characterized by heavy guitar chords and a rhythmic groove inspired by Sly Stone’s funk style. Jeff Porcaro, the band’s drummer, described the song as a fusion of rock and funk, with a groove that crosses musical boundaries and resonates with listeners.
Reflecting on the song’s creation, Paich recalled how the piano riff sparked the entire composition, complemented by lyrics that emphasize the unpredictable nature of love: “Hold the line, love isn’t always on time.” This catchy refrain and the song’s melodic hooks contributed significantly to its widespread appeal.
Upon its release, “Hold the Line” ascended swiftly on the charts, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 14 on the UK Singles Chart. It garnered praise for its powerful vocals, scorching instrumentals, and memorable chorus, solidifying its status as a classic rock anthem of the late 1970s.
The impact of “Hold the Line” extends beyond its initial success, becoming a staple of Toto’s live performances over the decades. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by its inclusion in tours featuring members of Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band and Bobby Kimball’s solo endeavors, ensuring its legacy in the annals of rock history.
Critically acclaimed and beloved by fans worldwide, “Hold the Line” remains a testament to Toto’s musical prowess and their ability to craft timeless hits that resonate across generations. With its infectious rhythm and unforgettable melodies, the song continues to captivate audiences, cementing its place as a quintessential track in Toto’s illustrious repertoire.
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Lyrics
It’s not in the way that you hold me
It’s not in the way you say you care
It’s not in the way you’ve been treating my friends
It’s not in the way that you stayed ’til the end
It’s not in the way you look or the things that you say that you’ll doHold the line
Love isn’t always on time
Hold the line
Love isn’t always on timeIt’s not in the words that you told me
It’s not in the way you say you’re mine
It’s not in the way that you came back to me
It’s not in the way that your love set me free
It’s not in the way you look or the things that you say that you’ll doHold the line
Love isn’t always on time
Hold the line
Love isn’t always on timeIt’s not in the words that you told me
It’s not in the way you say you’re mine
It’s not in the way that you came back to me
It’s not in the way that your love set me free
It’s not in the way you look or the things that you say that you’ll doHold the line
Love isn’t always on time
Hold the line
Love isn’t always on time
Love isn’t always on time
Hold the line
Love isn’t always on time
Love isn’t always on time
Love isn’t always on time
Hold the line
Love isn’t always on time
Love isn’t always on time
Love isn’t always on time
Love isn’t always on time
Whoa-ooh-ooh