About the song
Let me introduce to you one of the timeless classics of music, “Africa” by the renowned American rock band Toto. This song, released in 1982 as part of their album “Toto IV,” has transcended generations, captivating listeners with its evocative lyrics and mesmerizing melody.
Written by band members David Paich and Jeff Porcaro, “Africa” quickly became Toto’s signature song, earning them widespread acclaim and numerous accolades. Its rich blend of pop, rock, and world music elements creates a captivating sonic landscape that has stood the test of time.
“Toto IV,” the album that houses “Africa,” achieved remarkable success, earning multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year in 1983. The song itself reached the pinnacle of success, climbing to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and achieving significant chart positions in various other countries.
What makes “Africa” truly special is its universal appeal. Its heartfelt lyrics, inspired by Paich’s fascination with the continent of Africa, coupled with its infectious rhythm, resonate with listeners across diverse backgrounds and ages. The song’s iconic chorus, with lines like “I bless the rains down in Africa,” has become ingrained in popular culture, making it a perennial favorite at parties, weddings, and on the airwaves.
Decades after its release, “Africa” continues to captivate new audiences, its enduring popularity a testament to the timeless quality of Toto’s music. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, “Africa” promises an unforgettable musical journey that transcends boundaries and speaks to the soul.
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Lyrics
I hear the drums echoing tonight
But she hears only whispers of some quiet conversation
She’s coming in, 12:30 flight
The moonlit wings reflect the stars that guide me towards salvation
I stopped an old man along the way
Hoping 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”
It’s gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There’s nothing 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
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
It’s gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There’s nothing 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
Hurry boy, she’s waiting there for you
It’s gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There’s nothing 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 rain)
I bless the rains down in Africa (I bless the rain)
I bless the rains down in Africa
I bless the rains down in Africa (gonna take the time)
Gonna take some time to do the things we never had