Classical Pianist Performs Powerful Cover of Toto’s ‘Africa’ on a Grand Piano

It was in 1982 (my teen era) when Toto released their hit song “Africa.” It’s a song that has always been a part of us in many ways, and it has a recognizable tune and beat. It also has a sort of sincere melancholy that makes it the perfect soundtrack for many people’s lives. As it turns out, if you love this beautiful song and thought it was just you, I have news for you: you’re not alone. The song is so popular on the internet that it’s almost become a meme of sorts.

Some reviewers say that it’s not so much a song as a feeling. It starts off in a gentle way, and then you hear “I hear the drums echoing tonight” in David Paich’s mellow voice. The song turned 39 in 2021 and it seems that everyone with access to music in the world is in love with it. In fact, Rolling Stone describes it as the new “Don’t Stop Believin’” for people who are alive today. It’s an anthem that makes us all believe that we can do anything, and honestly, can’t we? Isn’t that what the gurus like Anthony Robbins tell us? Of course, anything is possible, and if you need a little boost today, “Africa” may give you what you need.

Africa by Toto album cover
Wikipedia, Fair use license

To get even more of this song, there’s an “Africa” bot tweeting the lyrics to the song. There’s also a website that plays the song on loops infinitely:  www.ibless.therains.downin.africa. There’s even a gorgeous t-shirt that encourages you to “bless the rains down in Africa.” I’m not sure how this song became the anthem for a new era, but I’m here for it!

I bless the rains down in Africa Toto t-shirt
Amazon

And tons of people have covered it. One of our favorite covers is this performance by Peter Bence, a classical pianist who has more than a million subscribers on YouTube. Everything he does is exceptional, and he particularly does justice to “Africa.” I love how he uses the walls of the piano as drums. Very unique! Watch his performance below.

Here’s Toto singing this awesome song.

Love it!

Tiffany Willis Clark is a fifth-generation Texan and the founder and editor-in-chief of The Best Stuff Online, AmReading.com, and a few other websites. In 2011, she made the decision to pursue her dreams and become a full-time writer. Tiff is obsessed with finding the most interesting, coolest stuff online and sharing it with the world. Connect with her on LinkedIn, follow her on Twitter, and like her Facebook page.