Africa by Toto - Revision

What genre is 'Africa' by Toto?

Soft rock/pop rock with elements of world music

When was ‘Africa’ written and who wrote it?

In 1981, by band members David Paich and Jeff Porcaro

What instruments are used in 'Africa?'

Synthesizers, electric piano, marimba, drum kit, bass guitar, electric guitars, male vocals, backing vocals, percussion

Describe the texture of 'Africa'

Mainly homophonic with layered textures

What key is 'Africa' in?

B major, modulates to A major in chorus

Describe the chords and harmony in 'Africa'

Extended chords (sus2, 7ths), diatonic harmony

Describe the time signature and rhythm in 'Africa'

4/4; syncopation and triplet rhythms

Describe the melody of 'Africa'

Mostly conjunct, some leaps, repeated motifs, syllabic

Describe the structure of 'Africa'

Verse-chorus form with intro, instrumental sections, and coda

What studio effects are used in 'Africa?'

Reverb, panning, multi-tracking, overdubbing, synths