Meaning and Lyrics of Africa by TOTO
Song Lyrics meaning of Africa by TOTO
About TOTO
TOTO, formed in 1977 in Los Angeles, is a Grammy-winning American rock band known for their eclectic blend of pop, rock, soul, funk, and progressive elements. The band’s core members included:
• Steve Lukather (guitar)
• David Paich (keyboards)
• Jeff Porcaro (drums)
• Steve Porcaro (keyboards)
TOTO’s self-titled debut album in 1978 spawned the hit single “Hold the Line,” but it was their 1982 masterpiece “Toto IV” that catapulted them to superstardom. This album featured their most recognizable track, “Africa,” a genre-defying earworm that’s become a cultural phenomenon decades after its release.
Beyond their own success, TOTO’s members were prolific session musicians, contributing to countless hit records by other artists. Their technical proficiency and versatility earned them a reputation as “musicians’ musicians.”
Despite lineup changes and hiatuses, TOTO has maintained a devoted fanbase and continues to tour, showcasing their impressive catalog of hits including “Rosanna,” “I’ll Be Over You,” and the ever-popular “Africa.” Their influence on pop-rock and their mastery of studio craft cement their legacy as one of the most successful and respected bands of their era.
• Steve Lukather (guitar)
• David Paich (keyboards)
• Jeff Porcaro (drums)
• Steve Porcaro (keyboards)
TOTO’s self-titled debut album in 1978 spawned the hit single “Hold the Line,” but it was their 1982 masterpiece “Toto IV” that catapulted them to superstardom. This album featured their most recognizable track, “Africa,” a genre-defying earworm that’s become a cultural phenomenon decades after its release.
Beyond their own success, TOTO’s members were prolific session musicians, contributing to countless hit records by other artists. Their technical proficiency and versatility earned them a reputation as “musicians’ musicians.”
Despite lineup changes and hiatuses, TOTO has maintained a devoted fanbase and continues to tour, showcasing their impressive catalog of hits including “Rosanna,” “I’ll Be Over You,” and the ever-popular “Africa.” Their influence on pop-rock and their mastery of studio craft cement their legacy as one of the most successful and respected bands of their era.
Meaning of Africa by TOTO
The song “Africa” by TOTO is a deeply evocative and introspective piece that delves into themes of longing, redemption, and self-discovery. The powerful imagery and symbolism used throughout the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a spiritual journey to find oneself and make amends for past mistakes.
The instrumental intro sets the tone for the song, creating a sense of mystery and anticipation. As the vocals come in, we are immediately drawn into a narrative that follows a protagonist on a quest for inner peace and fulfillment. The mention of drums echoing and whispers in the night suggests a sense of the supernatural or otherworldly influence guiding the protagonist on their journey.
The chorus, sung by Bobby Kimball, emphasizes the idea of determination and resilience in the face of adversity. The lyrics speak of being steadfast in one’s commitment, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The iconic line “I bless the rains down in Africa” can be interpreted as a metaphor for finding solace and redemption in a distant and mysterious land.
In the second verse, the imagery of wild dogs crying out and the reference to Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti evoke a sense of the untamed and primal forces at play in the protagonist’s inner turmoil. 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. This suggests that there is a chance for redemption and salvation, but it must be seized before it is too late.
The repeated chorus reinforces the themes of resilience and perseverance, with the blessing of the rains symbolizing a cleansing and purifying force that brings about renewal and growth. The decision to take time to do things that were previously neglected or avoided indicates a commitment to self-improvement and a willingness to face challenges head-on.
Overall, “Africa” by TOTO is a timeless classic that resonates with listeners on a deeply emotional level. The song’s rich lyrics, emotive vocals, and powerful instrumentation come together to create a profound and thought-provoking musical experience that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
The instrumental intro sets the tone for the song, creating a sense of mystery and anticipation. As the vocals come in, we are immediately drawn into a narrative that follows a protagonist on a quest for inner peace and fulfillment. The mention of drums echoing and whispers in the night suggests a sense of the supernatural or otherworldly influence guiding the protagonist on their journey.
The chorus, sung by Bobby Kimball, emphasizes the idea of determination and resilience in the face of adversity. The lyrics speak of being steadfast in one’s commitment, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The iconic line “I bless the rains down in Africa” can be interpreted as a metaphor for finding solace and redemption in a distant and mysterious land.
In the second verse, the imagery of wild dogs crying out and the reference to Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti evoke a sense of the untamed and primal forces at play in the protagonist’s inner turmoil. 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. This suggests that there is a chance for redemption and salvation, but it must be seized before it is too late.
The repeated chorus reinforces the themes of resilience and perseverance, with the blessing of the rains symbolizing a cleansing and purifying force that brings about renewal and growth. The decision to take time to do things that were previously neglected or avoided indicates a commitment to self-improvement and a willingness to face challenges head-on.
Overall, “Africa” by TOTO is a timeless classic that resonates with listeners on a deeply emotional level. The song’s rich lyrics, emotive vocals, and powerful instrumentation come together to create a profound and thought-provoking musical experience that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
Lyrics of Africa by TOTO
Instrumental Intro
Verse 1: David Paich
I hear the drums echoing tonight
But she hears only whispers of some quiet conversation
She's comin' in, 12:30 flight
The moonlit wings reflect the stars that guide me towards salvation
I stopped an old man along the way
Hopin' to find some old forgotten words or ancient melodies
He turned to me as if to say
"Hurry, boy, it's waiting there for you"
Chorus: Bobby Kimball
It's gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There's nothin' that a hundred men or more could ever do
I bless the rains down in Africa
Gonna take some time to do the things we never had
Ooh, hoo
Verse 2: David Paich
The wild dogs cry out in the night
As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company
I know that I must do what's right
As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti
I seek to cure what's deep inside
Frightened of this thing that I've become
Chorus: Bobby Kimball
It's gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There's nothin' that a hundred men or more could ever do
I bless the rains down in Africa
Gonna take some time to do the things we never had
Ooh, hoo
Instrumental Break
Bridge: David Paich & Bobby Kimball
"Hurry, boy, she's waiting there for you"
Chorus: Bobby Kimball
It's gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There's nothin' that a hundred men or more could ever do
I bless the rains down in Africa
I bless the rains down in Africa (I bless the rains)
I bless the rains down in Africa (I bless the rains)
I bless the rains down in Africa
I bless the rains down in Africa (I'm gonna take the time)
Gonna take some time to do the things we never had
Ooh, hoo
Instrumental Outro
Verse 1: David Paich
I hear the drums echoing tonight
But she hears only whispers of some quiet conversation
She's comin' in, 12:30 flight
The moonlit wings reflect the stars that guide me towards salvation
I stopped an old man along the way
Hopin' to find some old forgotten words or ancient melodies
He turned to me as if to say
"Hurry, boy, it's waiting there for you"
Chorus: Bobby Kimball
It's gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There's nothin' that a hundred men or more could ever do
I bless the rains down in Africa
Gonna take some time to do the things we never had
Ooh, hoo
Verse 2: David Paich
The wild dogs cry out in the night
As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company
I know that I must do what's right
As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti
I seek to cure what's deep inside
Frightened of this thing that I've become
Chorus: Bobby Kimball
It's gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There's nothin' that a hundred men or more could ever do
I bless the rains down in Africa
Gonna take some time to do the things we never had
Ooh, hoo
Instrumental Break
Bridge: David Paich & Bobby Kimball
"Hurry, boy, she's waiting there for you"
Chorus: Bobby Kimball
It's gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There's nothin' that a hundred men or more could ever do
I bless the rains down in Africa
I bless the rains down in Africa (I bless the rains)
I bless the rains down in Africa (I bless the rains)
I bless the rains down in Africa
I bless the rains down in Africa (I'm gonna take the time)
Gonna take some time to do the things we never had
Ooh, hoo
Instrumental Outro
Discography TOTO
With A Little Help From My Friends (Live)
Release: 2021-06-25
Label: The Players Club
Popularity: 👏
Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan, Koseinenkin Kaikan, March 12
Release: 2021-05-06
Label: The Players Club
Old Is New
Release: 2018-11-06
Label: Legacy Recordings
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