On the 11th of February 2018 I went to see Toto, one of my favorite bands live at the Helsinki Ice Hall. Even though the band showed some signs of aging it did not have an effect on their ability to play. Toto has a long history and it shows in their discography and number of band members over the years. Founded in 1977 Toto toured their 40th Anniversary show featuring 40 different cities. The show ended with their biggest hit Africa which is a favorite with musicians and listeners alike.
The reason for the popularity of Africa might lie in it's clear arrangement, catchy pentatonic licks and the infamous vi-IV-I-V progression. It's exotic enough for the average listener by having more uncommon timbral choices and not alienating anyone with tense harmonies or complex rhythms. Tight groove by Jeff Porcaro, memorable vocals (though silly lyrics) by Bobby Kimball and David Paich and the iconic synth brass riff by Steve Porcaro. It's a classic from the 80s for a reason.