"Africa" by Toto is a classic rock song that was released in 1982. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Songwriting Collaboration: The song was written by David Paich and Jeff Porcaro of the band Toto. David Paich came up with the iconic keyboard riff that opens the song.
Inspirations: The lyrics of "Africa" are known for their enigmatic and somewhat surreal nature. The song is said to be inspired by Paich's love of Africa and its landscapes, even though he had never been to the continent at the time of writing.
Recording Challenges: The recording of the song had its challenges. The band tried several drummers before Jeff Porcaro, Toto's drummer, nailed the distinctive drum pattern. The song features a mix of electronic and traditional instruments, creating a unique sound.
Chart Success: "Africa" was a massive commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States in 1983. It also topped the charts in other countries around the world.
Enduring Popularity: Despite being released in the early '80s, "Africa" has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years. It gained new attention thanks to internet memes, cover versions, and even a viral campaign to have it played in the African desert on a continuous loop.
Cover Versions: The song has been covered by numerous artists across different genres. Notably, Weezer released a cover in 2018 after a fan-led social media campaign, and it became a hit for the band as well.
Music Video: The music video for "Africa" features a combination of performance footage and scenes of wildlife, aligning with the song's theme of the continent. It reflects the mystique and allure of Africa as envisioned by the songwriters.
"Africa" remains one of the most recognizable and beloved songs from the 1980s, with a lasting impact on popular culture.