Toy Caldwell was a US Marine who served in Vietnam and was wounded in combat. Tommy Caldwell was a US Air Force Veteran. A VFW in Spartanburg, SC is dedicated to these brothers. Toy Caldwell is a great guitar player - that's right he IS and will live on forever in his music. I saw Marshall Tucker at the Spectrum, Philadelphia in 1972 was in awe of not only the band but Toy's unique and soulful guitar style - truly a great player. I had no idea at the time that this guitar player/singer was a former US Marine wounded in action combat veteran - I mean thinking about it - how many bands back then had awesome lead guitar players that were combat veterans? Definitely unusual and I am honored to have shared the same room for a concert with this great American hero - thank you
I seen the MTB in 1979 w/ Blackfoot opening for them. This was right before Tommy was killed. It was an awesome show, the sound was awesome, I love Toy's tone.
Bo Weevil He used his thumb exclusively. Watch all his videos...even when he’s ripping all his amazing lead licks, it’s with his right thumb. Learned it from his dad. His brother Tommy (RIP 1980) played base for Tucker the same way. There will never be this kind of talent again. Ever.
anybody who served in Vietnam deserves the respect they should get. And anybody who can play the Guitar that good should be recognized. RIP Toy we love you.
This is what I try to convey to my children when I say, “It was just different when I grew up.” No pretense, no look at me, just living and let live. Please God, help us back to these feelings.
Underrated legend if there ever was one. Much respect to Toy , his brother , the entire Marshall Tucker band. This song will live on forever. R.I.P. big man ( 1993 )
I disagree - Everyone knows who Toy Caldwell was & Marshall Tucker has enjoyed much success - when you say underrated i wonder how many people can name Jim Croce's guitar player - Who talks about Terry Kath - Outside of the "southern rock " community no greatest Guitar player list has even a mention of Steve Gaines - those dudes are the underrated - What about Charlie Daniel's guitar player ? I don't even remember dude's name and he is incredible - Charlie wasn't the only picker in the band -
Seen him play/ sing it. Nobody could perform it like Toy. Still miss him. I too am from SC, upper part, not far from where they all grew up. His bassist here was Tony Heatherly, his bassist in Toy Caldwell Band. They played together in Greenville together when MTB home.
Truer words have not been spoken. I loved the way Toy played lead on this song and he played the crap out of that gibson Les Paul it just was the song and it was Toy's. When I hear other people try it it feels like someone handed me a hundred dollar bill that was counterfeited by a 4 year old with crayons
I was a big fan of the Marshall Tucker band back in the 70's. Toy and Tommy Caldwell were both vets and served their country proudly. I salute them. America needs more people like this.
Toy Caldwell and The Marshall Tucker Band, Skynyrd, Charlie Daniels Band and others were the pioneers of Southern Rock. Even in 2022 Southern Rock is some of the greatest music ever made
Keep in mind, Toy did not use a pick. Listen to their live album Where We All Belong, and imagine trying to play that fast with your thumb. Nearly impossible!
+drewman118 We raise 'em tough down here in Spartanburg, SC Just sorry I never got the chance to meet him. We grew up 10 miles or so from one another....Love that music riding out across the desert in a "Big Truck"........
RIP Toy I was just 15 years old when this song 🎵 came out and Iwas a young long haired kid in the 70's what a time when music 🎶 was pure and true!, Manuel
Reminds me of fall of 1973 every time I hear this. I saw the Marshall Tucker Band in Philadelphia, Pa then. The lineup was The Marshall Tucker Band, Billy Cobham and Jefferson Starship. Marshall Tucker stole the show
Having just watched what is left of The Marshall Tucker Band live yesterday at the Gillioz Theatre, I can both agree and disagree with you. Toy the songwriter gave the band soul, and the guys playing his songs now with the band surprisingly absolutely, positively live up to that legacy. They were incredible. :)
The current MTB, would do well to dump that drunken scumbag Doug Gray. What he's doing to the MTB name is nothing short of disgraceful. Toy, Tommy, and George have passed on; it's time to hang up the spurs. All he's doin' is squeezing every penny he can outta the legacy; and honestly, he's terrible at it.
I saw them as well...It was so disappointing. They were horrible. A friend brought her LP album for them so sign....Don't get me wrong there were gracious and humble...and agreed to sign the album...but after they were done...my friend didnt' want to to even allow them to touch that original LP...it was NOT GOOD. I'll just keep my original recordings & memories.
@@whiskeyriver4322 I heard Doug in a video they were thinking about calling the Doug band he is so stuck on himself. Been a Long Time Marshall Tucker Band fan.65 now been listening long time. Went to see them nothing but a tribute band playing their music they sounded awful chemistry is not there .I got invited when they were inducted into the South Carolina Music Hall of Fame of course by then Toy already passed away his daughter was there. Doug Gray and all his wifes got to keep it going no matter what .
John Saienni, Thank you Sir for the short but very sweet mini- bio on Mr Caldwell. Had no idea. Think it was around '78/79 the old Orange Bowl, Miami saw Marshall Tucker, Molly Hatchet and Bob Segar. 19-20 years old then so don't remember a whole lot. Not just because it was a long time ago but because I was wasted!! Ha! Toy being a Vietnam combat Veteran, doing his duty and coming home to write songs, and perform play
I met Toy Caldwell at the Stone Pony in New Jersey in 1987. I was a roadie for a band called Hyway, which was the opening act. I was speechless but fortunate enough to have him sign my roadie patch. A memory I'll treasure forever.
When you see Toy in the above video, he had 4 years and 5 months left to live. This performance by Toy on the Nashville Now show was in September of 1988. Toy hadn't performed at all since he left the Marshal Tucker Band in 1983. After he left the Marshal Tucker Band, he tried piddling around in a studio in Spartanburg for a couple of weeks in early 1984 with the thought of maybe putting together a solo album, but his heart just wasn't in it, so he shelved the project. I don't think he ever got over his brothers Tim and Tommy (MTB bass player) dying in car wrecks in 1980...one month apart. Other than that brief two weeks in a studio in early 1984...from the time Toy left MTB in 1983 until 1988 he was essentially retired. He stayed at home with his wife Abbie and two young daughters at their home on Lightwood Knot Road in Moore, South Carolina (Spartanburg County) that Toy had built in early 1983 on acreage he owned in the country. He'd fish for a few days each week, and essentially just stayed home in S.C. for five years. The only known performance by Toy during those five years, was at a local tavern one evening when he was persuaded to do a number with the house band, and a band member loaned him a guitar. By 1988 Toy had become motivated enough to get interested in performing again. So when you see him in this video, Toy had come out of a five year retirement, and had five years of "performance rust"...but it didn't show, his performance was spot on. He did a few other performances then got back to work in the studio on new tracks for a solo album which was released in 1992 as "The Toy Caldwell Band." The next year, 1993, Toy's wife Abbie found him dead in bed on the morning of February 25, at their home in Moore, S.C. He was 45 years old. An autopsy was conducted by Dr. David Wren, a pathologist, but he could not find any reason why Toy's heart would stop beating and his lungs would stop breathing (cardio-pulmonary arrest). So the Spartanburg County Coroner, Jim Burnett, requested that the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) in Columbia, S.C. conduct toxicology tests to determine cause of death. At a subsequent news conference, Coroner Jim Burnett stated... "The Autopsy Failed To Find Any Cause For Mr. Caldwell's Death, Thus SLED Has Been Requested To Perform Toxicology Tests In Their Lab On Samples Taken From Mr. Caldwell. Until Such Time As That Toxicology Report Is Completed, I Am Issuing The Following Preliminary Finding... --Acute Cardio-Respiratory Failure Due To Unknown Causes...Pending Results Of Toxicology Report." Coroner Burnett went on to state... "We Don't Have Anything Else To Go On Now Other Than The Toxicology Report." The toxicology report came back several weeks later and it showed that Toy had Cocaine in his system. At his final news conference, Coroner Jim Burnett stated... "The Toxicology Report Is Complete, And It Shows That Mr. Caldwell Had Cocaine In His System At The Time Of His Death. We Have Ruled That Mr. Caldwell Died As A Result Of Cardio-Pulmonary Arrest Due To Cocaine Ingestion. To Be Clear, Cocaine Ingestion By Mr. Caldwell Caused A Coronary Arrhythmia (Abnormal Heartbeat) To Occur Which Subsequently Resulted In Cardio-Pulmonary Arrest." Coroner Burnett went on to state... "Toxicology Tests Also Showed The Presence Of The Drug Diazepam, Commonly Known As Valium, In Mr. Caldwell's System, For Which Mr. Caldwell Had No Prescription. Valium Is Sometimes Used By Cocaine Users To Come Down From A Cocaine High." Toy Caldwell's Wikipedia page mention's the toxicology report's findings of Cocaine in Mr. Caldwell's system. However, someone has attempted to "spin" Mr. Caldwell's death by inserting the false statement..."The cause of death was reported as cardio-respiratory failure do to viral myocarditis by Coroner Jim Burnett." That is completely false, and all three references the person lists to "support" that bogus claim are actually nonexistent...I've checked all three. Coroner Jim Burnett's statement to the press regarding Toy Caldwell's cause of death is a matter of public record, and was widely reported in the news at the time... "We Have Ruled That Mr. Caldwell Died As A Result Of Cardio-Pulmonary Arrest Due To Cocaine Ingestion." The person also attempts to make the toxicology report appear to be at odds with the coroner's report by adding the following to Toy's Wikipedia page..."Nevertheless, a toxicologist's report found that the 'cause of death' was a cardiac arrest brought on by Cocaine use." That is also a false statement, because toxicology reports NEVER give a cause of death. A toxicology report only lists what is found in the person's system, and that report is then sent to the coroner. And the reference the person cites doesn't support what he says about the toxicology report giving a different "cause" of death, it actually states that Coroner Jim Burnett ruled that Cocaine caused Toy Caldwell's death. That person's dishonest "spin" and lies should be removed from Wikipedia. The coroner issues the official cause of death, and in the matter of the official cause of Toy Caldwell's death, Coroner Jim Burnett stated unequivocally... "We Have Ruled That Mr. Caldwell Died As A Result Of Cardio-Pulmonary Arrest Due To Cocaine Ingestion."
The private full video of his NJ Private Party shows his genius in 1990. He could have published 10 albums - but yes he seemed depressed even through his genius. Veterans Day Today.
Purple Heart marine veteran of the Vietnam war. God bless his heroism. God bless him and hos brothers service. To our nation. God bless his song writing and guitar playing. Fair winds and following seas sir! You are an American great. 🇺🇸💪🎵
Tommy Caldwell was a marine also ,he was the top marine in his class,semper fi to both of them, enjoyed their music for years, first battalion first marines.
One of the must under-rated musician / guitarist you ever will see.. His orthodox style of his thumb technique to play guitar is awesome.. Rest in peace toy caldwell ✌ and ❤️
I went to high school in Spartanburg, to the same high school these boys went to. Used to pump gas for them in the 70's. As a generic low skill guitarist, I appreciate this man's playing finesse. Live on dude.
that song has blues, and southern rock rolled into one. i shook his hand in the late 80s in Charleston SC in a little dive he was playing. he came over to my table and talked a moment,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Holy crap. I didnt know Toy was a Vietnam vet. Wow. I saw The MTB 3 times in the mid to late 70’s. They are still one of my top bands, still listen to their music regularly. God Bless them.
Listening to this driving down Marshall Tucker road in 2023. Although MTB was a little before my time I'm thankful for an older brother that introduced me to these Titans of southern rock.
Love, love, love. Can't You See has been with me on countless. . . and I mean countless. . . skates late at night on Venice Beach. I would drive to Venice, park on the beach, put my pink suede skates on, my headphones which included this to-die-for-song, and I would skate down to Santa Monica and back several times. Good times! So much aliveness.
I just met this band and toy caldwell viewing this awesome song. So sorry he is no longer with us. Awesome player and awesome voice. Thank you for your service. RIP. You outstood your service in the marines I’ve read. Thank you.
I remember the first time hearing this song back in 1973. This song stood out from all C&W songs. I never tire of hearing, this is uplifting to me, and what a powerful voice.
Growing up in South Carolina, Marshall Tucker is Our band a South Carolina treasure. My son took drum lessons from Paul Riddle. This version of "Can't you See", true Classic. Thank you Caldwells...it's our Music!
I saw these fellowd 4 times live. 1974, 1975 , 1976, 1978.. They were So talented and diveres with their music. The Best Southern Band Ever.. had all the Records and 8 tracks. Still listin to them.
Thank you for posting this ! Beautiful song by a beautiful person.Rest In Peace Toy Caldwell. Gone far too soon. He was an amazingly talented Singer,Songwriter and Guitar Player . In every interview I have seen so far , he has always been polite ,humble down to earth and nice. ..Nice Southern gentleman. Took a bullet and bravely served his country in Vietnam and received a Purple Heart. I love his beautiful song lyrics, unique singing voice and unique style of playing the electric guitar with his thumb instead of a pick. He looks so happy performing this, especially at the end when people joined him on stage . This is how I want to remember Toy Caldwell. We love you Toy!
I really miss this Man. He was a great song writer. I put Him right up there with Hank Williams. AWESOME Toy, rip, You got me through my teenage years in the 70's. We miss you brother
looks like a fun tv show. toy was great. beautiful thing about marshall tucker was the wind instruments. they were like the southern version of Traffic. very unique
WOW , I never heard that version before , that was some thing else . Nobody can sing like Toy , nobody . All of the studio musicians were really getting into jammin' with him . Thanks for posting .
Scott Heron Ha ha it does look very 80's but timeless and amazing. I love Toy and he looks like he is having a blast, especially toward the end when people join him on stage . I watch this over and over and over
I remember buying a new Marshall Tucker album and couldn’t hardly wait to get it home and listen to it. The same goes for the other Southern Rock bands but, Marshall Tucker Band was and is my favorite.
No Doubt, Toy was as awesome player and had that gritty snarl in His voice too. Always loved MTB especially "Ramblin on My Mind" for Toys Guitar Work .. God Bless Toy and the MTB ...
I cover this song, I always try to capture the passion and pain in Toy's vocals in the way I sing it. Thanks for one of the most awesome songs ever Toy!
i am in a shitty garage band and i play guitar, bass and keys, they make me play the keys as if flute, I love this song. I could listen to this all day long.
I saw them, Marshall Tucker Band, in 1979 at the Portland Coliseum when Tommy was still alive. Toy Caldwell was one of the best songwriting guitar players ever. Listen to Asking To Much of You, Fire on the Mountain, Searchin for a Rainbow, Bob away my blues, just to name a few.
I've always loved Marshall Tucker. Toy was a great guitar player and song writer. I've had the privilege over the years to see MTB in concert and all but one I was able to get their autographs. Out of all the bands I got to go see. These gentlemen were just so down to earth and loved and respected their fans so much to take time out to meet with them and give autographs, answers, questions, and just talk. God Bless the Marshall Tucker Band. Thanks for the Memories MTB.... Ron in Ten Mile Tennessee...
Toy Caldwell was a US Marine who served in Vietnam and was wounded in combat. Tommy Caldwell was a US Air Force Veteran. A VFW in Spartanburg, SC is dedicated to these brothers. Toy Caldwell is a great guitar player - that's right he IS and will live on forever in his music. I saw Marshall Tucker at the Spectrum, Philadelphia in 1972 was in awe of not only the band but Toy's unique and soulful guitar style - truly a great player. I had no idea at the time that this guitar player/singer was a former US Marine wounded in action combat veteran - I mean thinking about it - how many bands back then had awesome lead guitar players that were combat veterans? Definitely unusual and I am honored to have shared the same room for a concert with this great American hero - thank you
I was at that show in Philly
Semper Fi.
I seen the MTB in 1979 w/ Blackfoot opening for them. This was right before Tommy was killed. It was an awesome show, the sound was awesome, I love Toy's tone.
Great post - cannot add anything to that w/out being redundant. Peace.
Tommy's a marine not air force
PURE CHILL BUMPS!! WHO IS STILL LISTENING TO THE GREAT SOUTHERN ROCK IN 2024??👍👍RIP MR TOY WE MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU!!🙏
👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Right here with you brother.🤜🤛
@@justtrumpem4849 👊👊👍
👍
👍
This man had more talent in one finger than 99% of so called artist today- and the entire package- writing ability, signing, guitar. And passion
Bo Weevil He used his thumb exclusively. Watch all his videos...even when he’s ripping all his amazing lead licks, it’s with his right thumb. Learned it from his dad. His brother Tommy (RIP 1980) played base for Tucker the same way. There will never be this kind of talent again. Ever.
Only SHE had NO PACKAGE! NONE OF EM, cuz they're all bearded WOMEN!!
@@ErinIsReal shut up stupid
The thundering thumb
And DIDN"T Lip-Sync his live performances.
Vietnam vet and Musical genius. RIP Toy.
Pure class. A Purple Heart hero, oozing with talent and what a voice, died when he was just 45, it ain’t fair. God bless you Toy Caldwell.
Just about all those awesome southern rockers died young.
I didn't find that he received the Purple Heart?????
@@vikingblood0408 He was a Sargent and was wounded and refused to be evacuated and leave his men
anybody who served in Vietnam deserves the respect they should get. And anybody who can play the Guitar that good should be recognized. RIP Toy we love you.
I give him my respect. That's the best I have to offer him. Best wishes to you.
Semper Fi, Marine!!! Rest in Peace, Brother !!!
Music hall of fame.
This is what I try to convey to my children when I say, “It was just different when I grew up.” No pretense, no look at me, just living and let live. Please God, help us back to these feelings.
Time will do that got to me hopefull
I hope so to. If we could only go back. I'm 62 it's not a good place to be. Best wishes to you my brother.
Amen.
amen
The 70's was absolutely LOADED with "look at me" artists full of pretense.
Underrated legend if there ever was one. Much respect to Toy , his brother , the entire Marshall Tucker band. This song will live on forever. R.I.P. big man ( 1993 )
same here
semper fi, brother. Tom Cpl USMC RVN CDR USN
I disagree - Everyone knows who Toy Caldwell was & Marshall Tucker has enjoyed much success - when you say underrated i wonder how many people can name Jim Croce's guitar player - Who talks about Terry Kath - Outside of the "southern rock " community no greatest Guitar player list has even a mention of Steve Gaines - those dudes are the underrated - What about Charlie Daniel's guitar player ? I don't even remember dude's name and he is incredible - Charlie wasn't the only picker in the band -
"Can't You See" was Toy's song and his alone. No one could do it like him. I'm proud to be from South Carolina, the home of this awesome musician.
Seen him play/ sing it. Nobody could perform it like Toy. Still miss him. I too am from SC, upper part, not far from where they all grew up. His bassist here was Tony Heatherly, his bassist in Toy Caldwell Band. They played together in Greenville together when MTB home.
Home of the secessionist traitors. Yeah you can be proud of that. Loser.
Conway SC here agree 100 percent
Truer words have not been spoken. I loved the way Toy played lead on this song and he played the crap out of that gibson Les Paul it just was the song and it was Toy's. When I hear other people try it it feels like someone handed me a hundred dollar bill that was counterfeited by a 4 year old with crayons
I was a big fan of the Marshall Tucker band back in the 70's. Toy and Tommy Caldwell were both vets and served their country proudly. I salute them. America needs more people like this.
ya thimk?? Good back at you
Toy Caldwell and The Marshall Tucker Band, Skynyrd, Charlie Daniels Band and others were the pioneers of Southern Rock. Even in 2022 Southern Rock is some of the greatest music ever made
Allman Brothers as well
Toy Caldwell is hands down one of the best guitarist to ever walk this earth
Keep in mind, Toy did not use a pick. Listen to their live album Where We All Belong, and imagine trying to play that fast with your thumb. Nearly impossible!
+Shabaam1993 He absolutely was one of the great guitar players. His playing had a soul to it that no one had. Very , very underrated.
+drewman118 We raise 'em tough down here in Spartanburg, SC
Just sorry I never got the chance to meet him. We grew up 10 miles or so from one another....Love that music riding out across the desert in a "Big Truck"........
+Pete Pompies so you're an expert musician and an English teacher?! Good to know!!!
+Shabaam1993 Nailed that one...lol
I don't think I will ever tire of hearing this song. Southern rock at it's absolute zenith!
I recently found this song ❤️ and plays very often.
RIP Toy I was just 15 years old when this song 🎵 came out and Iwas a young long haired kid in the 70's what a time when music 🎶 was pure and true!, Manuel
Damn! When he starts singing...wow, true southern awesome rock!
what a voice, you will pay attention.
What a talent Toy was. Gone too soon.
+Will Garrison great song.purple heart,drugs kill.
Reminds me of fall of 1973 every time I hear this. I saw the Marshall Tucker Band in Philadelphia, Pa then. The lineup was The Marshall Tucker Band, Billy Cobham and Jefferson Starship. Marshall Tucker stole the show
It gives me chills to view this performance. Little did Toy know what a legacy he would leave in the after life. RIP TOY
By the time his voice started, I already had tears.
same here
🙏🌬💖🎸
I know how you feel. But a big ol’ Texas grin too. Play their stuff all the time still.
the most underrated guitarist ever . in any music genre .
This song lives in my heart forever!! RIP Toy, Tommy and all from MTB who have passed! See you all in heaven!!
Toy Caldwell was The Marshall Tucker Band
Having just watched what is left of The Marshall Tucker Band live yesterday at the Gillioz Theatre, I can both agree and disagree with you. Toy the songwriter gave the band soul, and the guys playing his songs now with the band surprisingly absolutely, positively live up to that legacy. They were incredible. :)
The current MTB, would do well to dump that drunken scumbag Doug Gray. What he's doing to the MTB name is nothing short of disgraceful. Toy, Tommy, and George have passed on; it's time to hang up the spurs. All he's doin' is squeezing every penny he can outta the legacy; and honestly, he's terrible at it.
I saw them as well...It was so disappointing. They were horrible. A friend brought her LP album for them so sign....Don't get me wrong there were gracious and humble...and agreed to sign the album...but after they were done...my friend didnt' want to to even allow them to touch that original LP...it was NOT GOOD. I'll just keep my original recordings & memories.
@@whiskeyriver4322 So he's the Francis Rossi of Southern Rock? lol
@@whiskeyriver4322 I heard Doug in a video they were thinking about calling the Doug band he is so stuck on himself. Been a Long Time Marshall Tucker Band fan.65 now been listening long time. Went to see them nothing but a tribute band playing their music they sounded awful chemistry is not there .I got invited when they were inducted into the South Carolina Music Hall of Fame of course by then Toy already passed away his daughter was there. Doug Gray and all his wifes got to keep it going no matter what .
We are damn lucky to have this footage of Toy on here !
John Saienni, Thank you Sir for the short but very sweet mini- bio on Mr Caldwell. Had no idea.
Think it was around '78/79 the old Orange Bowl, Miami saw Marshall Tucker, Molly Hatchet and Bob Segar.
19-20 years old then so don't remember a whole lot. Not just because it was a long time ago but because I was wasted!!
Ha! Toy being a Vietnam combat Veteran, doing his duty and coming home to write songs, and perform play
I met Toy Caldwell at the Stone Pony in New Jersey in 1987. I was a roadie for a band called Hyway, which was the opening act. I was speechless but fortunate enough to have him sign my roadie patch. A memory I'll treasure forever.
I joined the Army in the 70s and have the utmost respect for the Vietnam Vet and loved all the music back then
A true southern ICON. RIP Toy Caldwell.
When you see Toy in the above video, he had 4 years and 5 months left to live.
This performance by Toy on the Nashville Now show was in September of 1988.
Toy hadn't performed at all since he left the Marshal Tucker Band in 1983.
After he left the Marshal Tucker Band, he tried piddling around in a studio in Spartanburg for a couple of weeks in early 1984 with the thought of maybe putting together a solo album, but his heart just wasn't in it, so he shelved the project.
I don't think he ever got over his brothers Tim and Tommy (MTB bass player) dying in car wrecks in 1980...one month apart.
Other than that brief two weeks in a studio in early 1984...from the time Toy left MTB in 1983 until 1988 he was essentially retired. He stayed at home with his wife Abbie and two young daughters at their home on Lightwood Knot Road in Moore, South Carolina (Spartanburg County) that Toy had built in early 1983 on acreage he owned in the country.
He'd fish for a few days each week, and essentially just stayed home in S.C. for five years.
The only known performance by Toy during those five years, was at a local tavern one evening when he was persuaded to do a number with the house band, and a band member loaned him a guitar.
By 1988 Toy had become motivated enough to get interested in performing again.
So when you see him in this video, Toy had come out of a five year retirement, and had five years of "performance rust"...but it didn't show, his performance was spot on.
He did a few other performances then got back to work in the studio on new tracks for a solo album which was released in 1992 as "The Toy Caldwell Band."
The next year, 1993, Toy's wife Abbie found him dead in bed on the morning of February 25, at their home in Moore, S.C. He was 45 years old.
An autopsy was conducted by Dr. David Wren, a pathologist, but he could not find any reason why Toy's heart would stop beating and his lungs would stop breathing (cardio-pulmonary arrest).
So the Spartanburg County Coroner, Jim Burnett, requested that the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) in Columbia, S.C. conduct toxicology tests to determine cause of death.
At a subsequent news conference, Coroner Jim Burnett stated...
"The Autopsy Failed To Find Any Cause For Mr. Caldwell's Death, Thus SLED Has Been Requested To Perform Toxicology Tests In Their Lab On Samples Taken From Mr. Caldwell. Until Such Time As That Toxicology Report Is Completed, I Am Issuing The Following Preliminary Finding...
--Acute Cardio-Respiratory Failure Due To Unknown Causes...Pending Results Of Toxicology Report."
Coroner Burnett went on to state...
"We Don't Have Anything Else To Go On Now Other Than The Toxicology Report."
The toxicology report came back several weeks later and it showed that Toy had Cocaine in his system. At his final news conference, Coroner Jim Burnett stated...
"The Toxicology Report Is Complete, And It Shows That Mr. Caldwell Had Cocaine In His System At The Time Of His Death. We Have Ruled That Mr. Caldwell Died As A Result Of Cardio-Pulmonary Arrest Due To Cocaine Ingestion.
To Be Clear, Cocaine Ingestion By Mr. Caldwell Caused A Coronary Arrhythmia (Abnormal Heartbeat) To Occur Which Subsequently Resulted In Cardio-Pulmonary Arrest."
Coroner Burnett went on to state...
"Toxicology Tests Also Showed The Presence Of The Drug Diazepam, Commonly Known As Valium, In Mr. Caldwell's System, For Which Mr. Caldwell Had No Prescription.
Valium Is Sometimes Used By Cocaine Users To Come Down From A Cocaine High."
Toy Caldwell's Wikipedia page mention's the toxicology report's findings of Cocaine in Mr. Caldwell's system. However, someone has attempted to "spin" Mr. Caldwell's death by inserting the false statement..."The cause of death was reported as cardio-respiratory failure do to viral myocarditis by Coroner Jim Burnett."
That is completely false, and all three references the person lists to "support" that bogus claim are actually nonexistent...I've checked all three.
Coroner Jim Burnett's statement to the press regarding Toy Caldwell's cause of death is a matter of public record, and was widely reported in the news at the time...
"We Have Ruled That Mr. Caldwell Died As A Result Of Cardio-Pulmonary Arrest Due To Cocaine Ingestion."
The person also attempts to make the toxicology report appear to be at odds with the coroner's report by adding the following to Toy's Wikipedia page..."Nevertheless, a toxicologist's report found that the 'cause of death' was a cardiac arrest brought on by Cocaine use."
That is also a false statement, because toxicology reports NEVER give a cause of death.
A toxicology report only lists what is found in the person's system, and that report is then sent to the coroner.
And the reference the person cites doesn't support what he says about the toxicology report giving a different "cause" of death, it actually states that Coroner Jim Burnett ruled that Cocaine caused Toy Caldwell's death.
That person's dishonest "spin" and lies should be removed from Wikipedia.
The coroner issues the official cause of death, and in the matter of the official cause of Toy Caldwell's death, Coroner Jim Burnett stated unequivocally...
"We Have Ruled That Mr. Caldwell Died As A Result Of Cardio-Pulmonary Arrest Due To Cocaine Ingestion."
How do you know so much personal history about Toy? Very interesting.
The private full video of his NJ Private Party shows his genius in 1990. He could have published 10 albums - but yes he seemed depressed even through his genius. Veterans Day Today.
Great post. Sad, sad death. Semper fi form a Marine brother Tom CPL USMC (RVN)
@Greg Solomon thank you for setting the record straight!
@@donnagibson8749 I grew up in South Carolina and am old enough to know the history first hand.
Purple Heart marine veteran of the Vietnam war. God bless his heroism. God bless him and hos brothers service. To our nation. God bless his song writing and guitar playing. Fair winds and following seas sir! You are an American great. 🇺🇸💪🎵
Gone way too soon. Unique voice, unique guitar style, incredible writing.
great talent and thanks to technology i learned about Toy Caldwell and the Mashall Tucker Band from a distance in Switzerland! Cooool! Stefan 😜
Might be the greatest song ever. And that's comin from a hard rocker.
Most incredible song ever written and performed?
It’s cool how 3 chords, the truth, and some good musicians can turn something so simple into a masterpiece.
One of the best songs EVER!!!
Tommy Caldwell was a marine also ,he was the top marine in his class,semper fi to both of them, enjoyed their music for years, first battalion first marines.
One of the must under-rated musician / guitarist you ever will see.. His orthodox style of his thumb technique to play guitar is awesome.. Rest in peace toy caldwell ✌ and ❤️
Jeff Beck was a advocate of the same style. RIP to both of those great pickers.
Such a unique tone when played with the thumb rather than a pick…this is the first time I’ve seen Toy playing something other than a Les Paul…
I went to high school in Spartanburg, to the same high school these boys went to. Used to pump gas for them in the 70's. As a generic low skill guitarist, I appreciate this man's playing finesse. Live on dude.
that song has blues, and southern rock rolled into one. i shook his hand in the late 80s in Charleston SC in a little dive he was playing. he came over to my table and talked a moment,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Semper Fi, Marine!
Holy crap. I didnt know Toy was a Vietnam vet. Wow. I saw The MTB 3 times in the mid to late 70’s. They are still one of my top bands, still listen to their music regularly. God Bless them.
Lifelong fan of the Marshal Tucker Band.
Listening to this driving down Marshall Tucker road in 2023. Although MTB was a little before my time I'm thankful for an older brother that introduced me to these Titans of southern rock.
Such strong vocals, awesome song
Toy Caldwell knocked my dad out in SC back in the early 80s after a show😆.
Never was allowed to listen to Marshall Tucker band growing up.
Seen Toy in a small bar near the Buffalo N.Y airport. One of my best performances I've ever seen.
Toy Caldwell was one of a kind. Saw the band in South Bend many years ago. One of my favorites.
I was there and they (and we) tore the Morris Civic up! Memories...
Toy Caldwell - legend, still inspiring us - incredible voice, lyrics and music.
Good to hear Toy again
Never got to hear him live
Great performance, R.I.P. Brother.
Love, love, love. Can't You See has been with me on countless. . . and I mean countless. . . skates late at night on Venice Beach. I would drive to Venice, park on the beach, put my pink suede skates on, my headphones which included this to-die-for-song, and I would skate down to Santa Monica and back several times. Good times! So much aliveness.
kick ass young woman
Pure gold right there.
Saw them 2nd row..then, Tommy died and saw them again the the year.. RIP..you studs
Toy Caldwell-King of thumb pickers. Keep those streets guarded up there Toy. Semper Fi brother. I’m looking you up when I get there. 🫡❤️🤘🏼
One of the all-time greatest!!
one of the best tunes ever written RIP Brother you made my ears smile!
I just met this band and toy caldwell viewing this awesome song. So sorry he is no longer with us. Awesome player and awesome voice. Thank you for your service. RIP. You outstood your service in the marines I’ve read. Thank you.
I remember the first time hearing this song back in 1973. This song stood out from all C&W songs. I never tire of hearing, this is uplifting to me, and what a powerful voice.
Growing up in South Carolina, Marshall Tucker is Our band a South Carolina treasure. My son took drum lessons from Paul Riddle. This version of "Can't you See", true Classic. Thank you Caldwells...it's our Music!
I saw these fellowd 4 times live. 1974, 1975 , 1976, 1978.. They were So talented and diveres with their music. The Best Southern Band Ever.. had all the Records and 8 tracks. Still listin to them.
Thank you for posting this ! Beautiful song by a beautiful person.Rest In Peace Toy Caldwell.
Gone far too soon. He was an amazingly talented Singer,Songwriter and Guitar Player . In every interview I have seen so far , he has always been polite ,humble down to earth and nice. ..Nice Southern gentleman. Took a bullet and bravely served his country in Vietnam and received a Purple Heart. I love his beautiful song lyrics, unique singing voice and unique style of playing the electric guitar with his thumb instead of a pick. He looks so happy performing this, especially at the end when people joined him on stage . This is how I want to remember Toy Caldwell. We love you Toy!
Taken from us way too young....so sad....RIP Mr. Caldwell. Your music lives on.
I really miss this Man. He was a great song writer. I put Him right up there with Hank Williams. AWESOME Toy, rip, You got me through my teenage years in the 70's. We miss you brother
Thank you brother Toy and Tommy for touching my heart and my soul forever with you pure raw guitar power RIP Toy and Tommy
Love you Toy! Thank you for your service for our Country and your amazing music. RIP
I'm still listening to southern rock thanks too youtube great memories.
Riding down the highway on my Harley and this song comes on. It opens the third eye to my soul.
Toy had such a distinctive vocal range. 💙💙💙
From the first time I saw him play I noticed his picking style. Pick so great with just his thumb. One of a kind picker.
God bless Toy Caldwell and everyone who served the Greatest Nation on Earth since day one.
Saw Toy play at a bar in Hickory, NC. The bar was Ten Years After! A hole in the wall Blues bar! Great memories!
I agree with all the comments here about Toy but, Damn that Nashville Now Band and singers could play just about anything
Love the MTB bunch of great music my two favorite songs of the MTB is Searching for a rainbow and Fire on the mountain.
Them are my favorite two too!
looks like a fun tv show. toy was great. beautiful thing about marshall tucker was the wind instruments. they were like the southern version of Traffic. very unique
or Jethro Tull...
Super Thumb,RIP brother!
This is one song that comes on I crank up and you are going to hear me sing whether you want to or not.
Yep, our little garage band does this one two or three nights a week.
WOW , I never heard that version before , that was some thing else . Nobody can sing like Toy , nobody . All of the studio musicians were really getting into jammin' with him . Thanks for posting .
As 80's as this video looks, that man's voice is timeless!
Scott Heron
Ha ha it does look very 80's but timeless and amazing. I love Toy and he looks like he is having a blast, especially toward the end when people join him on stage . I watch this over and over and over
@@lisamitchell5586 lol, 67 here, and yeah diff time and diff sounds, diff equipment, but damn this man kicks ass.
The finest guitar player I ever saw live. Charlotte 1982 was the final time I saw him. I took some great photos of him and the MTB.
One of the greats! RIP Toy! You will always be remembered as a a great writer and musician!
our band opened for Toy's last band, the Shadowriders, 3 times when they came through Chicago - 3 of my best gigs of my life, not even headlining!
Every moment I hear this song I cry and I don't know why. Thank you for this video. It is wonderful
All I have is one word… goosebumps
Still magic in that thumb. Long live Toy
I remember buying a new Marshall Tucker album and couldn’t hardly wait to get it home and listen to it. The same goes for the other Southern Rock bands but, Marshall Tucker Band was and is my favorite.
RIP brother. This song and yourself are both immortal.
Lovely.. one of my favorites.. RIP Toy..
greetings from perth west australia this is just the best......
No Doubt, Toy was as awesome player and had that gritty snarl in His voice too. Always loved MTB especially "Ramblin on My Mind" for Toys Guitar Work .. God Bless Toy and the MTB ...
I cover this song, I always try to capture the passion and pain in Toy's vocals in the way I sing it. Thanks for one of the most awesome songs ever Toy!
i am in a shitty garage band and i play guitar, bass and keys, they make me play the keys as if flute, I love this song. I could listen to this all day long.
I saw them, Marshall Tucker Band, in 1979 at the Portland Coliseum when Tommy was still alive. Toy Caldwell was one of the best songwriting guitar players ever. Listen to Asking To Much of You, Fire on the Mountain, Searchin for a Rainbow, Bob away my blues, just to name a few.
this is gold!
RIP Mr Toy. The fastest thumb in the west.
Proud to be from the same area as Toy Caldwell!
I've always loved Marshall Tucker. Toy was a great guitar player and song writer. I've had the privilege over the years to see MTB in concert and all but one I was able to get their autographs. Out of all the bands I got to go see. These gentlemen were just so down to earth and loved and respected their fans so much to take time out to meet with them and give autographs, answers, questions, and just talk. God Bless the Marshall Tucker Band. Thanks for the Memories MTB.... Ron in Ten Mile Tennessee...
A great talent gone too soon as some are. This song and a few others he wrote will live on a long time.
THE GREAT GREAT GREAT TOY CALDWELL
it's amazing that he wrote this song with such passion, because all his friends say he never had his heart broken.
What a gem, a rare find. Thanks.
This man is a true hero and true legend!! I’m honored to have been able to grow up listening to this genius. Thank you Mr Caldwell
An Amazing Performance by Toy Caldwell and friends...of .....An Awesome Musical Masterpiece. ......