The Meaning Behind The Song: Africa by Toto
For four decades, the song “Africa” by Toto has continued to captivate audiences with its catchy melody and poignant lyrics. Despite its inexplicable success, the song continues to be shrouded in mystery, with many debates centering on its meaning and symbolism.
In this article, we will explore the background and context of the song as well as dissect its lyrics to reveal the deeper meaning behind “Africa” by Toto.
The Background
Written and composed by David Paich and Jeff Porcaro, “Africa” was released by Toto in 1982. It quickly climbed the charts, reaching the top of the US Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a global hit. The song’s popularity has only grown with time, with countless covers and remixes being produced over the years.
According to the band members, the song was inspired by a combination of their love for African music and a conversation they had with a friend who had visited the continent. Paich has also said that the song was an attempt to capture the feeling of the vastness and mystery of Africa, despite having never actually been there.
The Lyrics
Despite its upbeat melody, the lyrics of “Africa” are surprisingly melancholic, evoking a sense of longing and nostalgia. Let’s take a closer look at the words:
“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'”
The opening lines of the song introduce the main character, who is arriving in Africa and is immediately struck by the sounds and rhythms of the continent. The mention of “whispers of some quiet conversation” suggests a communication breakdown, highlighting the alienation felt by the protagonist in this new environment.
The mention of the “moonlit wings” and the idea of being guided towards “salvation” could be interpreted as a metaphor for the hope and comfort the protagonist feels upon arriving in Africa.
The stanza ends with the protagonist meeting an “old man” who he hopes will give him insights into the ancient culture of Africa. The man’s words to the protagonist, “Hurry boy, it’s waiting there for you,” could be seen as a message of urgency or encouragement to seek out the mysteries and secrets of the continent.
“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 chorus of “Africa” is iconic, with its catchy melody and repeating refrain. The lyrics themselves have been the subject of much debate, with some suggesting they are nonsensical or meaningless. However, a closer look reveals deeper symbolism.
The line “It’s gonna take a lot to drag me away from you” could be interpreted as a statement about the strength of the protagonist’s connection to Africa, and the challenge it would take to pull him away from the continent’s allure.
The next line, “There’s nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do,” could refer to the idea that no matter how many obstacles or challenges are faced, the protagonist’s love for Africa will never waver.
The line “I bless the rains down in Africa” has been particularly scrutinized, with some questioning its meaning. However, it could be seen as expressing gratitude or appreciation for the natural beauty and power of the continent, and the life-giving rains that sustain it.
Finally, the last line, “Gonna take some time to do the things we never had,” could be seen as a powerful message of exploration and discovery, encouraging the protagonist to take advantage of the time he has in Africa to embrace new experiences and engage in self-discovery.
The Legacy
Over the years, “Africa” by Toto has become more than just a song – it has become a cultural phenomenon. It has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials, propelling its popularity to new heights.
In recent years, the song has also become a favorite among younger generations, with countless covers and remixes emerging on social media platforms like TikTok. One of the most notable examples is a cover by the band Weezer, which has garnered over 300 million views on YouTube.
In many ways, the continued relevance of “Africa” speaks to its universal appeal and timeless message. The song continues to connect with audiences across generations and cultures, offering a message of hope, discovery, and appreciation for the natural world.
Conclusion
In the end, the meaning of “Africa” by Toto is ultimately open to interpretation. Some may see it as a celebration of the beauty and power of the African continent, while others may interpret it as a message of self-discovery and exploration. Regardless of its specific meaning, the song continues to inspire and captivate listeners around the world, cementing its place as a true classic in the world of music.
