Toby Myers; Obituary, Death: It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Toby Myers, the legendary bassist, and beloved friend, who passed away yesterday. Toby, a native of Indiana, touched the lives of countless fans, friends, and fellow musicians with his immense talent, generosity of spirit, and unwavering dedication to his craft. He was 67 years old.
Toby Myers will be remembered as one of the most influential and versatile bass players in the American music scene. Known for his time with Pure Funk, Roadmaster, and, most notably, as a member of John Mellencamp’s band, Toby left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. His deep, rhythmic bass lines formed the backbone of many iconic songs and albums, capturing the raw energy and emotional depth of his era.
Toby’s work helped define a sound that resonated deeply with listeners, blending elements of rock, funk, and soul into something unmistakably unique. Toby’s musical journey began in the vibrant music scene of Indiana, where he honed his craft and developed a reputation as a gifted and soulful musician. Early in his career, he was a key figure in Pure Funk, a band known for its infectious grooves and innovative sound.
It was there that Toby’s unmistakable bass playing first gained attention and earned him the respect of his peers. His ability to seamlessly blend rhythm with melody set him apart as a bassist of extraordinary skill and musical intuition. Later, Toby’s time with Roadmaster brought him into contact with a wider audience, further solidifying his place in the annals of rock and roll history.
Roadmaster was a staple of the Midwest rock scene, and Toby’s contributions to the band’s sound were vital to its success. His distinctive bass lines helped drive the band’s energetic performances and propelled them to greater prominence. But it was his long-standing association with John Mellencamp that truly catapulted Toby Myers into the hearts of music lovers everywhere.
As a member of Mellencamp’s band, Toby was an integral part of some of the most enduring hits in rock history, including tracks like “Crumblin’ Down,” “Pink Houses,” and “Jack & Diane.” His bass playing provided the rhythmic foundation for John Mellencamp’s emotionally charged lyrics and punchy rock sound, contributing to the development of the heartland rock genre that defined much of the 1980s and beyond. Throughout his time with Mellencamp, Toby brought a sense of groove and finesse that was as much a part of the music as the melody itself.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Toby Myers was beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was known for his kindness, generosity, and sense of humor, always ready with a joke or a word of encouragement. He had a warmth and charisma that made everyone around him feel at ease, and he formed close, lifelong friendships with fellow musicians, crew members, and fans.
Toby’s humility was evident in everything he did—he never sought the limelight for himself but always gave credit to the collective efforts of the bands he played with. Toby’s legacy as a musician is matched only by the impact he had on those who knew him personally. His friendship was a cherished gift to so many, and he will be remembered not only for his musical contributions but also for his unwavering support, loyalty, and love.
He had a special way of making people feel seen and heard, and his presence was a bright light in the lives of everyone who had the honor of sharing time with him. While his passing leaves a tremendous void in the music world, Toby’s influence will live on through the recordings and the memories he created. His bass playing will continue to inspire future generations of musicians, and his unique sound will be heard in the music of those who were fortunate enough to collaborate with him.
He may have been quiet and unassuming in many ways, but his artistry spoke volumes, and his legacy will endure. As we say goodbye to Toby, we take comfort in knowing that his music will continue to be a source of joy, solace, and inspiration for years to come. He leaves behind a body of work that will remain forever timeless, a testament to his extraordinary talent and artistic vision.
Toby Myers was more than just a musician—he was a friend, a mentor, and a constant source of support and encouragement to those who knew him. His passing is a great loss, but his spirit and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to witness his musical genius and his kind heart.
Rest in peace, Toby. You will be missed, but never forgotten. Thank you for the music, the memories, and the friendship. A celebration of Toby’s life and music will be held in the coming weeks, where family, friends, and fans will gather to honor his remarkable legacy. Donations in his memory can be made to local music programs that were close to his heart. Toby Myers is survived by his family, friends, and countless musicians whose lives he touched throughout his career.
