The unexpected success of Weezer’s rendition of Toto’s “Africa” has left both fans and musicians reflecting on its impact. In 2018, the band released a cover of this 1982 classic following an online fan campaign. This version not only became one of their most popular hits in years but also sparked conversations about authenticity and artistic intent. The song climbed to No. 51 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached the top spot on the alternative songs chart, surprising even the band members.

Toto guitarist Steve Lukather recently shared his thoughts on Weezer’s interpretation during an interview with Matt Pinfield’s radio show New & Approved. He expressed uncertainty about lead singer Rivers Cuomo’s true feelings toward the song. Lukather speculated that Cuomo might have initially approached the cover with a sense of humor, only for it to become a defining part of their live performances. Despite Lukather’s efforts to connect with Cuomo and understand his perspective, the two did not develop a close relationship. “It was good for them, it was good for us,” Lukather concluded, emphasizing the positive outcome for both bands.

Reflecting on the creative process behind the cover, Cuomo revealed that Phil Collins’ approach to covers inspired him. As a child, Cuomo admired Collins’ version of “You Can’t Hurry Love” without realizing it was a cover. When recording “Africa,” he aimed to replicate the harmonies as accurately as possible, drawing inspiration from Collins’ meticulous method. This dedication to detail highlights the respect and admiration Cuomo had for the original song, showcasing how artists can find new ways to pay homage to classics while creating something uniquely their own.