Search results
Jun 3, 2018 · Meaning of “Africa” by Toto. by SMF · Published June 3, 2018 · Updated April 15, 2021. “Africa” is a song recorded by the American rock band Toto. The lyrics of “Africa” capture the quandary of a guy who must choose between his two loves — the continent of Africa and girl he finds therein.
- 5 min
The lyrics to ‘Africa’ are elusive, elliptical, suggestive, baffling, and frustrating. Is this a song about the literal continent of Africa, or is ‘Africa’ functioning as some kind of metaphor? Is it about the end of a relationship, or the commitment to one?
This song is about self cleansing and starting over. The rains in africa are washing away his present life. He wants to get away from the modern world and technology and politics and return to the place of human origins, Africa, which throughout history was also known as an undiscovered place.
- (65)
' " Paich refined the lyrics for six months before showing the song to the rest of the band. In 2015, Paich explained that the song is about a man's love of a continent, Africa, rather than just a personal romance. He based the lyrics on a late night documentary with depictions of African plight and suffering.
- "Good for You", "We Made It"
- June 25, 1982 (U.K.), October 1982 (U.S.)
- June 1981
The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and a need to confront one’s fears and insecurities in order to find peace and resolution. The bridge, where it is repeated “Hurry, boy, she’s waiting there for you,” adds a sense of urgency and importance to the protagonist’s journey.
Feb 25, 2021 · 'Africa' was written by Toto members David Paich and Jeff Porcaro, and it ended up on the band's 1982 album Toto IV. The initial concept and lyrics for the song came from David Paich. Paich was playing around with his new keyboard, the CS-80, and found the brassy sound that became the song's famous opening riff.
Songfacts®: This song tells the story of a man who comes to Africa and must make a decision about the girl who comes to see him. He is enamored with the continent, but must leave if he is going to be with her.
