Toto Guitarist Questions Weezer’s Motives Behind ‘Africa’ Cover

Steve Lukather suggests Weezer's rendition of the 1982 hit may have been intended as a joke and reflects on the strained relationship with Rivers Cuomo.

• Weezer's 2018 cover of Toto's 'Africa' originated from a fan-driven social media campaign and became a major hit for the band.
• Toto guitarist Steve Lukather has expressed doubts about Weezer's sincerity in covering the song, suggesting it was initially done as a joke.
• Lukather revealed attempts to connect with Weezer’s Rivers Cuomo were unsuccessful, describing the interactions as 'weird' and leaving him with 'hurt feelings.'
• Despite initial skepticism, Toto acknowledged the success of Weezer's cover and even responded with their own rendition of Weezer's 'Hash Pipe.'
• Weezer's 'Africa' cover featured on their 2019 Teal Album, a collection of covers, but has since been phased out of their live performances as of 2024.

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