" When I was starting my journey as a young guitar player, I was listening to The Beatles, the Stones, and all the British invasion bands, Top 40, Motown, and all the great music of the ’60s. Then the alien ship landed, and life changed again forever… Jimi Hendrix. "
- Steve Lukather

In this quote, Steve Lukather, a renowned guitarist, shares his personal journey as he entered the world of music. He describes how he was influenced by a wide range of musical genres and artists during his formative years as a musician, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Motown legends, and other prominent figures from the 1960s. However, Lukather emphasizes that his life changed dramatically and permanently upon discovering Jimi Hendrix, suggesting that this discovery had an unparalleled impact on him.

The deeper meaning of this quote lies in how influential musicians can alter a person's musical direction and worldview. When Lukather says "the alien ship landed," he uses metaphorical language to convey the profound and transformative nature of encountering Jimi Hendrix’s music. This statement highlights not only the significance of Hendrix in shaping Lukather's personal style but also underscores how certain artists have the power to redefine one's musical identity and aspirations. The quote reflects on the idea that discovering a new artist can be as life-changing as an extraterrestrial visit, suggesting the immense influence and inspiration Jimi Hendrix had on his musical journey.

Steve Lukather is known for his work with the band Toto, where he has been a guitarist and vocalist since 1977. He is also recognized as a prolific session musician and solo artist, contributing to numerous albums across various genres. His quote reflects not only his personal growth as a musician but also speaks to the broader impact that certain artists can have on others' artistic development and career paths.