"Toto" is a song by the American rock band Toto, released in 1982. Here are some interesting facts about the song "Africa":
Composition: "Africa" was written by band members David Paich and Jeff Porcaro. The song is known for its distinctive keyboard riff and memorable chorus.
Chart Success: The song 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 and remains one of Toto's most well-known songs.
Grammy Nominations: Despite its popularity, "Africa" did not receive any Grammy nominations. However, it has since become a classic and is often covered and referenced in popular culture.
Cover Versions: The song has been covered by various artists in different genres. Notably, Weezer released a cover of "Africa" in 2018 after a social media campaign by a fan. Toto responded by covering Weezer's "Hash Pipe."
Lyrical Inspiration: The lyrics of "Africa" are known for their enigmatic and somewhat surreal quality. David Paich has mentioned that he drew inspiration from a variety of sources, including a National Geographic documentary and his own imagination.
Music Video: The music video for "Africa" features a young couple on a quest to find a mythical crystal. It includes scenes of the band performing in a desert landscape. The video is characterized by its early 1980s visual style.
Internet Meme: In the 2010s, "Africa" experienced a resurgence in popularity on the internet and social media. Memes and viral videos, as well as the Weezer cover mentioned earlier, contributed to a renewed interest in the song among a younger generation.
Enduring Popularity: Despite being released in the early 1980s, "Africa" continues to be a popular and enduring song. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, further cementing its place in popular culture.
These facts showcase the cultural impact and enduring popularity of Toto's "Africa" over the years.