The Video For 'Africa' Is Nuts

Have you ever really watched the video for the Toto hit "Africa?" It dawned on me last night that I've never seen that video... despite listening to the song every day as I'm a big fan of Yacht Rock on SiriusXM. So last night I fired up the YouTube box and watched the clip for "Africa" and I have to admit, I was mesmerized. I mean, the clip is hilarious. I know that wasn't the goal, but looking at it some 30+ years later, it's a riot. The clip reminds me a lot of our beloved Glam bands and some of their really early clips when MTV was brand new: crazy concepts that make no sense, bad clothes and horrible lighting.

But back to "Africa." It seems our friends in Toto are jamming on top of a giant pile of books and the lead singer is researching Africa... he points to Chad a lot on the map. And there's a librarian. And the keyboard player wears sweat bands on his wrists. Yes, both of them.

Here's a challenge: find me a video of a Glam band where one of the members is wearing sweats bands... on both wrists. Go!

And just for fun, here's a modern metalcore cover of "Africa" by Affiance:

Comments

[Gary]

This video is proof that there was indeed top notch smoke available even in the early 80's if you knew where to find it. ( These screenwriters and director apparently did) 😂😂😂

[Bryon]

When you mentioned sweat bands, the first thought that went through my head was 'On the Road to Rock' by Kick Axe. Sure enough, the lead singer has bands on both his wrists, but only one sweat band - a leather strap is on the other. Still, I want to give myself props for somehow remembering that. It's a bit terrifying, actually.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdEQa1Q983I

I didn't look, but there has to be at least one Helix video with a member brandishing the dual sweat-bands.

[Rita]

For some reason, Richie Sambora comes to mind.

I don't know what video I'm recalling but I just googled Richie and found some pics of him with sweatbands on both wrists. So I bet any old Bon Jovi video would have him sporting them.

If I'm less lazy later, I will check out Youtube and post a link. But don't hold your breath.

[bluejayart]

Uh oh...there's gonna be some serious library fines for that spill..lol.

If you want to see a kickin guitar player creatively handle it check out Andy Mckee and his version of Africa.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHFcg1Bg83w

[Mike]

Pretty sure that goofy drummer from Trixter was always rocking the dual sweat bands, as well as one on his head.

[TheCheapSeats]

Not exactly glam, but Steve Harris, every time. I don't think he ever takes them off.