The FTD community extends its heartfelt support to Bobby Kimball, original lead vocalist of the band Toto, and his family as the world learns more about the singer’s journey with FTD.

The voice of Kimball, 78, propelled “Hold the Line,” “Africa,” and “Rosanna” to Top Ten chart positions in 1979-83, and during his tenure with the band, Toto earned six Grammy Awards, with Kimball’s distinctive vocals helping define the sound of an era.

According to TMZ, Kimball first noticed memory concerns in 2019, and he and his wife, Jasmin, sought evaluation at UCLA’s Memory Clinic, where he received his FTD diagnosis that same year. He also learned he had aphasia at the time of his diagnosis.

Despite these challenges, Kimball continues to find meaning in daily life. TMZ reports that he lives in his Los Angeles home with his wife and the support of two caretakers. While he mostly stays at home, he still enjoys outings to Los Angeles restaurants and parks with family and friends. Remarkably, he continues to play piano, maintaining a connection to the music that has defined his life.

An upcoming documentary, “Kite on a String: The Bobby Kimball Story,” will chronicle both Kimball’s remarkable musical achievements and his life with FTD. Director John Zaika told TMZ the film will feature medical experts providing insight into the diagnosis and showcase Kimball’s day-to-day experiences with the disease.

Recently, Steve Lukather, Toto’s founding guitarist, addressed speculation about his relationship with Kimball. In interviews with Parade and other outlets, Lukather expressed affection for his former bandmate, describing him as one of the greatest singers he’s known.

Bobby Kimball’s story reminds us that behind every diagnosis is a person with a rich history and enduring spirit. AFTD stands ready to support the Kimball family and all those affected by FTD with resources and connections to others who understand these unique challenges.

Further reading:
https://www.tmz.com/2025/09/04/totos-bobby-kimball-diagnosed-with-frontotemporal-dementia/

https://www.cleveland.com/news/2025/11/bandmate-says-iconic-frontman-can-no-longer-sing-because-of-dementia.html

https://parade.com/entertainment/rock-legend-steve-lukather-bobby-kimball-toto-feud

https://www.theaftd.org/what-is-ftd/primary-progressive-aphasia/

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with FTD, visit www.theaftd.org for educational resources and support.