Africa (acoustic Toto cover) - Mike Masse and Jeff Hall

Africa by Toto, an acoustic cover performed by Mike Masse and Jeff Hall. See Mike in Concert: mikemasse.com/concerts Book Mike (public or private event): mikemasse.com/contact/
Listen on Spotify: open.spotify.com/track/58sSPI...
Listen on Apple Music: music.apple.com/album/1441608...
Follow Mike:
/ mikemassedotcom
/ mikemassemusic
Buy merch: mikemasse.com/merch
Read "How Africa Changed Everything" by Mike Massé: mikemasse.com/africa-toto/
Performed by Mike Massé and Jeff Hall on 8/7/10, at the Pie Pizzeria in South Jordan, Utah.
Africa Lyrics
(David Paich/Jeff Porcaro)
I hear the drums echoing tonight
But she hears only whispers of some quiet conversation
She's coming in, 12:30 flight
The moonlit wings reflect the stars that guide me towards salvation
I stopped an old man along the way
Hoping to find some old forgotten words or ancient melodies
He turned to me as if to say, "Hurry boy, it's waiting there for you"
It's gonna take a lot to take me away from you
There's nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do
I bless the rains down in Africa
Gonna take some time to do the things we never had
The wild dogs cry out in the night
As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company
I know that I must do what's right
As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti
I seek to cure what's deep inside, frightened of this thing that I've become
It's gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There's nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do
I bless the rains down in Africa
Gonna take some time to do the things we never had
(Instrumental)
Hurry boy, she's waiting there for you
It's gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There's nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do
I bless the rains down in Africa
I bless the rains down in Africa
(I bless the rain)
I bless the rains down in Africa
(I bless the rain)
I bless the rains down in Africa
I bless the rains down in Africa
(Ah, it's gonna take the time)
Gonna take some time to do the things we never had
#africa #acousticclassicrock #mikemasse

[@mikemasse]

*For a complete list of upcoming concert dates and tickets, visit my site: **mikemasse.com/concerts* *NEW! "Covers, Vol. 3" has just been released: **itunes.apple.com/album/1456169156*

[@stephanelavagna9527]

I wish i could ! Your voice and talent are a gift...for us 😁 & HNY2019 from France...sub and big up from me 😉

[@ihatekillerclowns]

Will you be performing this song?

[@mikemasse]

Absolutely. 👍

[@seant.m5318]

@@mikemasse If you come to Toronto I'm totally coming. Legendary voices!

[@mikemasse]

@@seant.m5318 I really hope to come back soon! I loved that city when I visited a few months ago for a private event.

[@tyleru96]

Imagine just sitting there enjoying some pizza while the greatest cover of Africa of all time is performed right in front of you lol

[@RudyG210]

Tupdike i would have also paid for the ear orgasm i had, but idk if thats legal?

[@843292]

Tupdike, you're absolutely right... I'm a big fan of Toto covers... but this IS the best cover I've ever heard of Africa! Wow!

[@JohannGambolputty22]

Weeper, I mean Weezer couldn’t even come close.

[@TheDaner]

*pineapple pizza

[@5yearsout]

Imagine stumbling onto this seeing him playing at my local Pie Pizzeria.

[@Protojet1]

Toto’s keyboard player Steve Porcaro said this was his all time favorite cover!!!

[@youtubecommentsectiondebates]

I discovered this video nearly 10 years ago and I still come back to listen to it. One of the greatest covers I've ever heard.

[@KESJEDWJ]

tits right? me too.

[@BreathingDragonfire]

I fully agree.

[@cameronmcbride1102]

I'm grateful it's on Spotify on my playlists

[@PorscheDad]

Just found this gem. Just now. These guys go nuts with the harmonies - sounds amazing! Peace & Love from Northern NY

[@mlvdlinden9537]

Same

[@riceythemasshole9153]

Who else has been watching this cover for years and is always blown away by it every time you see it?

[@RiggsHB]

Me.

[@johnny-c4mylove268]

Every time!!

[@tombryan1]

Saw him live at a winery, wow, just wow

[@markusrudolf9377]

keep coming back to it!

[@MrAucklandguy]

Each and every time

[@svendlundby3638]

Don't underestimate the bassist, he's doing a lot of magic with the perfect harmonies.

[@bebaios]

Absolutely, perfect chemistry and harmonies

[@leilabermejo4679]

Yes agree

[@talsophos]

The average Joe would miss these as the lead vocal is so good and powerful. But thay backing is absolutely amazing too right

[@josiefegan1495]

especially "i bless the rains down in africa" it's not the obvious harmony that everyone sings, but it's the signature one

[@Oswlek]

Absolutely, it's too bad he's a Yankees fan. :)

[@StantonDJJoker]

Did the customers even realize that they were witnessing the greatest cover of Africa, ever?

[@DougMacRay]

You can hear a voice at the very, very end of the video say something like: “Great f*ing (?) perfect.” He knew it was flawless, but I don’t think the majority of the audience realized that they were just privy to one of the best live acoustic performances ever captured. And that is why this is, and will forever remain, an unrecognized masterpiece. I’ll digress for but a moment- There’s only three other acoustic songs that bring me to tears: REM’s Fall on Me, Pearl Jam’s Black and Nirvana’s Where Did you Sleep Last night. I put this performance along side of those. Maybe even above them given the venue. To me- what Mike and Jeff did that rainy day, is sublime. Stay safe & stay strong. Warmly, Boston

[@cliftonbyrd8681]

Unfortunately the beers and conversation overshadowed the unbelievable rendition of Africa. That was as good as it gets. Mike and Jeff - hopefully we are adding to the applause that you so richly deserve as we sit at home and enjoy your performance.

[@RedSplinter36]

Seriously though!!! Holy wow this is AMAZING!

[@Miller78226]

They were all truly truly blessed🙏🏼, to be that fortunate, drop by for a slice of pizza, and get treated to this masterpiece...everytime i go for pizza now, I'm lookin out for a slightly overweight red headed guy with a guitar...🤣👍🏼

[@sportsimulations5353]

No doubt

[@phexus]

A few claps in the room and millions of claps around the world. Incredible cover.

[@venturacabecao]

Totally agree

[@dannylgriffin]

@@venturacabecao I know!

[@marcpigeon7796]

17 million !

[@dougmackey3696]

The lead vocals are perfect, the harmony, the acoustic guitar. This cover is second to none.

[@TrapMusicNow]

That chorus though. WOW

[@dukedalington]

Amazing!!

[@nitramza861]

I know. Raw talent here, folks.

[@Dom-nn1kg]

+

[@Mr_GO_HERD]

When that chorus hit it’s just ... 😳

[@RustyRogers]

I know, right?

[@MyNameIzDave]

The bass player's harmony takes this cover to the next level.

[@AndyHamstra]

Amen to that

[@LS67NOVA]

Agreed 100%

[@chuckjones1962]

Yes it does!

[@markmailloux4472]

spoken like true bass player who sings harmony!

[@dannylgriffin]

Agree.

[@hawkeye_544]

This is why KZbin exists. For all of us who didn't have the opportunity to hear this stellar performance of Africa at The Pie Pizzeria in South Jordan, UT, we at least have this recording. And so glad we do! This isn't just my favorite cover song, this is my favorite video of all time on KZbin. Hats off to Mike Masse (those vocals!!) and Jeff Hall (that bass!). Wow.

[@brandonfinley9248]

Holy heck. Lead singer, unreal voice. Rythym player, unreal support vocals. You guys are perfect together.

[@RVgeeks]

Greatest Africa cover of all time!!

[@LivanDon]

@Al Simmons exquisite

[@needleneedle6294]

2nd greatest cover. Mike and with Mona and Lisa Wagner (MonaLisa Twins) exceeds this version. Jeff Hall is great in his own right, but hes just does not compare to MLT and the perfect harmony with Mike.

[@shaadydog1]

@@needleneedle6294 Link it, the version I have seen was not impressive...The bassist doesn't harmonize well, they both drown Mike out, and the instruments do not fill the ear like this version does. For what/when/where this was it still is the best cover of this song ever, when you see comments like "I never would have guessed this was live" and "it was like listening to this song for the first time" I will stick to that statement.

[@ApocGuy]

@@needleneedle6294 Frog leap first, mike second, then everything else ;)

[@tarabowman1006]

Damn agreed!! I’m bawling my eyes out and listening to it on repeat!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️🥰🥰😭😭😭

[@Malsum]

Ten years later, and I'm STILL waiting for Toto to make a cover of Mike Masse's Africa... 😉

[@28happenstance]

Ha! Lmao.

[@needleneedle6294]

Check out Mike's same cover of this song with the MonaLisa Twins.... it is even a step above this one. Im thankful that they have matured at the right time to cover this with Mike and make magic.

[@shaadydog1]

Toto should do a reaction video!

[@randomelvis3359]

@@shaadydog1 Look up Mike’s “Hold you back now” cover...in the description he adds a personal email conversation with Steve Lukather.... Steve gives a nice chat and reaction, worth a look 👌🏻😉

[@KeithRyan]

@@needleneedle6294 DAMN, those vocals!!!

[@jerwin2804]

Mike's vocals are powerful and amazing but lets not underestimate the importance Jeff's harmony. It wouldnt be the same without it.

[@johnnyhenleyjr74]

Jeff's harmony is simply incredible!

[@apt34b65]

Absolutely!

[@ScutchP1]

Still arguably the greatest cover of any song I've heard. Ever. I also have to say, without taking away the absolute brilliance of Mike's musical prowess, Jeff Hall's harmony on the vocals during this song was literal perfection. One of the first songs I added to my Favourites many years ago. It will always remain.

[@hrchesterfield]

I hope one day that we can all agree that this is the best cover of any song on KZbin.

[@FishingBenB]

That day is today... This cover has the power to unify all people's of the world in the way The Wylde Stallions were always trying to accomplish!

[@chupasaurus]

Well there's a Space Oddity cover performed and recorded on ISS, the competition is quite fierce.

[@jeremyvolelli1194]

I can agree. Its wow.

[@timn4481]

IMAGINE.

[@maarten7863]

This is the best cover on here.. listened to them the past ten years and nobody comes even close..

[@raltommo]

I still can't believe how anyone can sound so good singing live, with that kind of setup, in a fucking pizerria and wearing a Rush T-shirt. Just a mindblowing performance. I can only imagine the guy sitting there in the end who was there to treat himself to a nice and affordable pizza and ended up bearing witness to the greatest rendition of a classic of american music. Priceless.

[@ChristianGates]

Mel E. Wtf does the t shirt have anything to do with it😂

[@mikemasse]

@@ChristianGates The Rush shirt has *everything* to do with it. 👍😉 Rush fans know what I mean....

[@BobLoeber]

I agree with Mike!! Hey Mike I am in awe of your voices in this video and ALL of your videos really. I’m a drummer with nominal guitar and keyboard ability. I can’t sing and play at the same time, which is VERY FRUSTRATING. But I’m trying. I was practicing Rush, Tears last night on the guitar 🎸 and thought “Hey Mike Massie should be playing this song. Ever do it?

[@mikefreland4828]

The guy in the RUSH T-Shirt is amazing! Wow! Just soo good! Damn what a voice!

[@brendanfisher]

Laughed out loud at "a nice and affordable pizza" 😂

[@ScottO84]

Checking in yet again in 2023 to listen to this masterpiece again.

[@L3x4Pr0ne]

I come back every now and again just to hear the cover of this song. What an absolute masterpiece. Not just the lead vocal here, but that sweet sweet harmony in perfect unison. Ugh. Perfection.

[@b4unoit949]

Same here. Like, right now.

[@emmanueludoh77]

Yep, stopping by to drink it in again! March 31, 2023

[@arthurmatthews9321]

The guy on base has stunning harmony.

[@Bugman541]

indeed

[@redpillthinking6043]

*bass

[@talahib0221]

Couldn’t agree more

[@DanielWesleyKCK]

*trout

[@chipskylark8869]

Killer assist vocals too

[@wdvnge]

9 years later and this is still the best cover i have ever seen 👌🏾

[@careerstreet]

Wodavenge absolutely agree.... pure 🙏

[@AbdaiZsolt]

Yes, that’s true

[@stevedavis7451]

This and Marc Martel`s Bohemian Rhapsady just blow me away!

[@alitabattlechicken9732]

Still like weezer’s slightiy better, but this is great

[@jdizzle9011]

2019

[@lumo7461]

The people in that room never even realised theyd just listened to THE best cover of this song ever!!!

[@LilPaulTheDrummerBoy]

I’ve been watching this cover on KZbin for years, and I always find myself coming back to it. You two really shine together as musicians, and I’ve yet to hear a better cover of Africa. So pleasing to my ears!

[@Muchachumalo]

Same here. Keep returning (and get impressed)

[@DevinWasLikeYo]

same bro lol

[@FatalPhenom]

Returning listener myself. It's too good

[@irel4nd]

Same here over a decade now and still the best. So much has happened in those years and this song is one of the very few constants. ❤

[@zacksmith4135]

Same

[@christianpetersen163]

Let's take another moment and another comment to appreciate Jeff Hall's bass and harmonies.

[@mattburch6482]

Yes, great call. This song demands two very strong and capable singers. They nearly carry equal weight. An amazingly talented pair.

[@fdllicks]

Bassist is a great part of the music, and a great vocalist

[@CandyCinema]

For real. That harmonizing is goosebump inducing.

[@MK-xl9tt]

Yes that dude is solid. Love all their vids. “CHEERS”

[@Andrew-nx9jr]

They are awesome! Dude looks like he’s having the time of his life.

[@Htheorphanarian]

if I walked into a pizza joint and heard this cover, I'd walk out, thinking, no way I can afford the pizza here...

[@ianreeve5941]

Brilliant, just brilliant!

[@Tassilago]

Htheorphanarian 😂😂😂👍!

[@windellmcspindell3652]

lmaooo

[@MTRyan321]

Haha! This made me bust out laughing

[@robinicus1133]

Funny as hell.

[@Andrew-nx9jr]

I love the bass player! Sitting there in his Hawaiian shirt and cap, crushing every aspect of this song. Banger bass playing, just picking away…. amazing harmonies.

[@jamescanton]

No two people have any right to sing that well, live, in the same room. Incredible.

[@kurtwpg]

That first chorus, holy shit.

[@robbertwerker3837]

best aspect of this cover: jeff hall harmonizing, WOW!

[@wwestbrook]

he is seriously under appreciated.

[@worldsend142able]

Robbert Werker he's solid

[@pizzaboy1250]

Robbert Werker he's so into the music and spot on vocally. They are the perfect duo.

[@craigdetroit]

Jeff Hall deserves some love for the bass and backup vocals. He was on point!

[@russmartin4189]

And he is cool as a cumber. Just kind of hangs out there doing his job.

[@ninji522]

This is not only the best cover of this song I've ever heard, its one of the best covers I've heard period. They kept the heart of the song but made something unique, outstanding.

[@michaelwilliams7026]

i totally agree there is about 6 guys or more in toto these 2 are out of this world and your right its absoultly right its the best cover of any song

[@randalllewis6001]

not even close, the best cover of all time is A day in the life, by the same guys

[@DougMacRay]

Totally agree and all without percussion. It’s mind blowing. Cheers from Boston Sept. 2023

[@ClarkeyClarke]

13 years and hundreds of views later... this gem will live on and be enjoyed many generations

[@Jsalcedo23]

This is literally the best cover I've ever seen to any song, ever. Holy shit

[@CTYPCL]

Yeah right? Its like one of the best pieces of music have I ever seen

[@Jsalcedo23]

Toni Blackbird truly is. both guys are really good

[@jonathanperry7051]

I concurr, all these guys covers are incredible, the sound of silence was incredible too

[@hgpwns]

if you don't mind the accent, theirs is pretty good too: watch?v=xMbPKMUQVc0

[@christopherlang2349]

Check out their cover of U2's "Pride". As one poster said, "The Voice" coaches would be annihilating their buttons!!!

[@maggschie]

This is literally the best Cover i've ever seen.

[@JV-df9em]

m4xx1cod3z any song, any group, hands down best cover I’ve ever seen as well.

[@laurenceroberttampushalpin3652]

Agree

[@OnePaintedMan]

Yes. Yes it is.

[@chrisb3362]

Just dynamite!

[@tomfommber]

It’s damn close.

[@michaellawrence4621]

All these years later, and here I am still listening. Best cover on KZbin…❤️🎼

[@OTPChargers]

12 year later...still the greatest cover of any song. Ever.

[@jeremy28135]

I have given this a lot of thought. And you’re 100% right

[@jaakkot9661]

I'm sure those harmonies gave God goosebumps

[@markfritchman7773]

John Burnham Funny, I had goosebumps listening to the harmonies as I read your comment!

[@nicolabirch5347]

Mark Fritchman omd same😂

[@matviyko8463]

This recording is still THE best Africa cover I've ever seen and heard, and the internet is a HUGE place! 😲

[@devillockj]

Even Toto says that.

[@neilmontroy9123]

I agree

[@matthewanthony4606]

Almost brings a tear to my eye

[@bollak778]

best cover ever ......by far

[@pdhps6407]

Proof somethings are better next time round

[@rmwensel]

12 years later and I still find myself coming back to listen to this song from time to time and I don't even like ToTo.

[@w3-watchingwithwombat79]

Just saw this for the first time tonight. I am in awe of the vocals. Such a powerful performance.

[@rogeriopereira1500]

Jeff Hall, one of the best backing vocals I've ever heard. I think that is a bass player's gift.

[@adamkail4449]

Totally agree! Like Michael Anthony from VH.

[@spfredbank]

I pop in every now and then to listen again to this amazing cover. I remember when it first came out in 2010?. Mike Massé's voice blew me away, but it is only now - after I have a better speaker system to hear the amazing harmonies of Jeff Hall. Your comment is spot on.

[@Ash-fm6ym]

Just read on Mike's website that every single member of Toto loves this cover, have met Mike and told him they show this cover to everyone they meet. Wow ! I would have died with happiness on the spot :p

[@tomiasthexder7673]

There is a video out there with two of the Toto guys taking about how good this cover is.

[@devillockj]

It’s priceless. It’s probably the greatest live recording ever

[@mrh4195]

I'm down a mike rabbit hole. Just sat for an hour watching everything in awe.

[@mikemasse]

Sometimes my channel can make someone late for a very important date. 🐇

[@ruzicaakarose2605]

I’ve done that a few times! 😂

[@chriscatton705]

I have watched this 100 times or more

[@Greenthumb-420]

Same

[@jameswilkins1332]

Every now and again, like a few minutes ago, I get that "I need to watch Mike Masse singing Africa" feeling. Until next time Mike, and my god there will be a next time, thanks again.

[@thomasbisset1136]

James Wilkins that's basically my life in one sentence.

[@danielgiorgi9599]

James Wilkins same here! And that has been going on for 3/4 years now?

[@DustinMorrisGOOGLE]

So much this

[@Whiskeyshoots15]

James Wilkins correct. That has been my life ever since I saw this like 4 years ago. I doubt I've gone 3 months since without thinking.. "better check out the best cover of any song ever again.." can't believe I lived in Utah my whole life until the Military moved me away 8 years ago and I never got to see these fellas Jam.

[@jameswilkins1332]

and what a life it is!

[@DullBoyJack]

Seven and a half years later and this is still the canonical version of this song in my head. Whenever I imagine this is the version I hear. And it was two dudes in a Pizzeria on a random august saturday. Unbelievable, Mike. You guys really did something special.

[@DougMacRay]

Summarized perfectly John. Warmly, Boston

[@CajunKing2006]

John Caldwell couldnt agree more Amazing I still get chills when I listen to it

[@ssteets]

Watched this for probably the 30th time tonight, 5 months after this comment, and I couldn't have said it better. The harmony is this cover is so spot on, and the final chorus blows my mind. The definitive best Africa cover out there.

[@jeremywade6986]

John Caldwell Of all the wonderful covers Mike and Jeff have done this ones shines brightest!

[@dustinschings7042]

Same. When I hear the tune, I hear these vocals. Anything else is a letdown, sorry Rivers!

[@stevemarshall8268]

There's a tiny thin line between rocking out wicked good like this in a pizza shop and being on a stage in front of 80,000. Total talent

[@jeffpblues]

I haven't listened to this for a while and came back to it today. This is one of those once in a lifetime performances that are simply jaw-dropping great. A piece of musical perfection by a couple of dudes just putting it out there in a little pizzeria. As so many have said, the best cover of this song ever. Timeless.

[@johncarllarmonie7731]

Me too. Totally agree.

[@davidsmith9]

Dude, I keep coming back to this. I still cannot believe how good this is.

[@forlife84]

Same.

[@northernstar7162]

Dude, I've lost count of how many times I keep coming back to this, lol

[@devillockj]

I stop by once a week minimum😂

[@sgtsclark1]

I watch it all the time, it’s freaking killer

[@rishiganguly3569]

Same. This cover is just too good. I prefer it to the original 😁

[@HilahJohnson]

This has always been a favorite song of mine and this cover is ridiculously beautiful.

[@madbowler6]

I am flabbergasted. Speechless. That just might be. (probably is) the greatest recording of Africa the world has ever known. At some small time pizza shop in Utah. Unbelievable.

[@user-ey8cv4hz1r]

For me it's not the best cover of Africa. It is the best version. A stunning performance. All my respect to both of you. Been listening to this version for a few years now.

[@monis256]

The only bad part of this video is the lukewarm applause from the audience at the end of the cover. Hands down the best cover of 'Africa'

[@rydergrimes6696]

Vivian Ajay Monis only good version of this song other than the original

[@debbieb9893]

Just.. wow

[@rueda82nd]

they were stuffing their faces with Pizza LOL

[@KP-dd2ci]

Totes messed, right?

[@rookieg]

They were still in shock of how amazing it was

[@The_Real_Indiana_Joe]

Holy Crap!! Took me 8 years to find this??? WTF? THAT WAS EPIC!!!

[@saloandrade3592]

Same

[@dmarler5560]

Dude. Seriously

[@TheMaineSurveyor]

Indiana Joe Definitely!

[@jschlitzski9646]

Welcome, 12 million plus cannot be wrong.

[@mysterymastermind175]

Took me 9

[@davidncbrown]

10 years ago I discovered this video. Still gives me chills when they break into the chorus. Its a harmony as rare as Simon and Garfunkel. There are people in this world that make such beautiful music and I am humbled to be able to listen to it whenever I want. 🙏

[@mitchmacmangamming5484]

Oh, Danny boy, the pipes, the pipes of these men!!!

[@WinterlightningZ]

Wife: So, is that the original group doing this acoustic or what? Me: No, it's two guys at a pizzeria. Wife: wow...

[@paulcunningham5327]

Right!!!!???? these guys are fantastic and their harmonies are outstanding.... at a Pizzeria....

[@GK1976A]

Why can't we have these guys at my local Pizza Express? That's what I want to know.

[@mahnoorshairali6877]

Yeah.....almost as good as the "original group" 😄

[@jrawk5594]

I think they should start a Pizza Place circuit

[@fulannaluf8387]

I want this guys to play in our jollibee. Hahaha

[@mchase4]

These dudes deserve to be in front of 1000's. The reaction of light applause was so wrong. I would have been screaming and yelling!

[@steveberube966]

Agree!

[@Occidio666]

Oh yeah, i was like speechless after i saw it the first time. They belong on the biggest stages on the greatest festivals ! :O

[@drjmole63]

My sense is that the audience reaction was really just one of "knowing amazement". I bet these guys have a strong following there and the folks who show up to see them are not surprised by how great these guys are. The audience seemed to know exactly what they were going to be hearing. SO now damn you KZbin - I have to spend hours checking out THESE guys too!! Isn't it enough I have to watch all the old Allman Bros, Lou Reed, Marshall Tucker, etc. videos?

[@joegiuffr3]

Jeff Moehlenbruck Right on, man. These guys are playing in some Pizza shop in Utah and from what it looks like, in the middle of the day. I took the light applause as a polite gesture to something they're use to hearing. To be loud would be obnoxious. How lucky they are to stop in for some pizza and music of this quality. I'd pay $10 a slice if I knew it would come with live music of this caliber.

[@zephead2002]

Yes shirt off twirling over my head, screamin' and whistling!!!

[@AlmightyFSM]

You have to love how KZbin occasionally surfaces 13 year old gems like this. Amazing.

[@slashdaniel]

You go out for a quiet bite to eat and these two are belting out these songs!. Wow, sounds like getting welcomed into heaven ! How lucky these people were .

[@michtig]

Doctor: you only have 4 minutes and 38 seconds to live Me:

[@mikemasse]

🤣

[@Powerslider]

hahaha

[@Tassilago]

😂😂😂

[@jeremyvolelli1194]

So true..

[@jimbrace4671]

Heard this 10 years ago and was totally mesmerized....listened to it over and over for more than 2 hours straight. Heard a lot of covers since then, none that top it.

[@ScottAnd]

Ive watched this so many times I lost track. Never gets old. I nominate Jeff and Mike to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

[@tedhodge4830]

First reaction was the unbelievable vocals, then I realized that the backup vocals on voice guitar were blending in harmony so perfectly it almost sounded like one person was singing. Incredible talent and perfect execution by both of you.

[@Anthony1974ist]

Probably the best cover I've ever heard

[@michaelwilliams7026]

and ever will

[@janky_yardbird3417]

Dude bass player rocking out with the vocal harmonies!!!!! Epic to the bone!

[@bigman55434]

PappyBadger Mike Porcaro would agree. These guys did a solid job on this song

[@ruthrozecki3590]

i know right...goose bumps man!!!!

[@UnderASwiftSunrise]

Sublime.

[@terrencegarner6012]

Bass dude totally killer

[@derekGarbanzo]

Holy shit this dude can sing.

[@sandgrownmanc6614]

Faultless.

[@beardmusiclife]

They both can. Wow!

[@ryanarrow85]

Holy crap, the pipes on him.

[@radiowolf14]

Thankfully this version will be preserved and available for ALL following generations to enjoy... this performance is as good as it gets... PERIOD!!!

[@badsaint1019]

Not just the best cover of Africa, but probably the best cover on youtube period.

[@carolmanies7641]

This is so awesome !!!

[@Larcona_]

That's a really big claim.

[@reyrogers2806]

@@Larcona_ So? Where is your link to a better cover of "Africa". Just shut the fuck up fool.

[@ImSurefire]

Rey Rogers Damn bro you shut him up 😂 💁‍♂️

[@garryroberts5106]

And that boys and girls is the epitome of how backup harmony can make a great cover into something sublime ... kudos to the bass guy !!!!!!

[@annettebell2101]

Yeah, that bass player's harmony is staggering. Beautiful, wonderful cover. Major talent, both of them.

[@joebrowntea]

I went to a TOTO concert some 20 years ago, it wasn’t as impressive as this. It’s insane

[@realAmericanConvict]

I can honestly say I've listened to this at least 1000 times. The harmonies are incredible.

[@AnticKev]

I can't believe people aren't talking more about Jeff's harmonies! They're amazing!!

[@ramsay777]

+Antic Kev - Hell yes! My favourite part of this amazing cover.

[@IbonekLareneg]

+Antic Kev I know exactly what you are saying, the focus is on Mike's lead but the 2 of them together....OMFG

[@kingdomrep6968]

+Antic Kev Str8 up!!

[@serpentchannelzer0]

+Antic Kev I came to the comments to find this or start the conversation myself. He is spot-on, and on such an iconic song the harmonies will either make or break the cover. Jeff nails it!

[@SantaDeerhound]

+Antic Kev Bang on - they are perfect harmonies

[@yongtimlim5038]

I must’ve first heard this cover about 9 or 10 years ago. I was absolutely stunned by the vocals and immediately shared it with my then wife. She grew up in a church and is a natural singer and piano player. She was amazed that I actually shared some “quality” music with her for the first time (she’s a sucker for flawless harmonics). We’re divorced now and our marriage ended almost as badly as it possibly could have. I didn’t know what to expect when I started rewatching this cover but was pleasantly surprised when it rushed back only happy memories of my former marriage. I’m glad I got to listen to this amazing cover one more time ❤️❤️

[@mikemasse]

❤️

[@photosolutions8618]

Today I learned I'm not getting my money's worth at my local pizzeria.

[@spiderman0863]

Awesome. Just awesome!

[@rogeriopereira1500]

I wonder who goes there for the pizza!

[@rickyquesadilla]

Hahahaha

[@piplowe694]

LOL!

[@noitallmanaz]

need to look at their yelp reviews

[@seanm4105]

Video in 2010: “Hey here’s this cover we did at a pizzeria” Me in 2020: “still watching it over and over “

[@ericcartmansstrengthandpow5960]

If only we could go back in time and warn people to start stock piling toilet paper.

[@Kingx90]

2010 was mid recession, and all this time they had this gift.

[@iswear1982]

That was flawless…. FLAW-LESS….I’m not sure those ppl where you were playing really understood the magnitude of what they were apart of. Hands down the best cover of any song I’ve ever seen. Ever.

[@ShaunOfTheDodd]

Jeff Hall inspired me to learn how to harmonise properly. Angelic.

[@tinakover385]

I feel rather sorry for those people walking past the windows outside, unaware they're missing one of the most immortal renditions of any pop song ever.

[@robshriver5006]

Everyone went Gaga over Weezer's version of this song. In my opinion, Mike and Jeff put Weezer to shame. This is the best cover of this song I've Ever heard!

[@jameskipp1657]

100% agree!

[@crystalraptor195]

I agree!

[@justinsorg2663]

Weezers version isnt even good enough for an anti aids campaign there

[@Miller78226]

No doubt,,there's no comparison, the big man kicks weezers arse👍🏼

[@scottjenkins4613]

I think its better than Toto's version...when they do it live?

[@yehudahecht1520]

When I focus on Jeff's vocals in the chorus, I get chills. Every single time.

[@watchmyepics]

THE best version, have heard some great voices and harmonizing of this song, BUT…this cover just hits the soul of the song so we’ll. Great work!

[@nickpani5728]

I having a big problem …….I went to listen to the original and I prefer this version now …………..

[@gurra4154]

Nick Pani agree

[@tjsullivan4793]

Funny me too

[@yermawasahampster]

This is one of those times where an enthusiastic stripped-down version blows the original out of the water :)

[@martas9283]

no problem surely :)

[@alonsocushing2398]

I'm kinda heading that way too.

[@MrPooPooJohn]

Just a bass and an acoustic. What magic is this? Why does this sound so much bigger? Great cover guys.

[@pascalmerschaudio]

The Soundguy has made a big Job too

[@GrefveGyldenpungh]

@@pascalmerschaudio Thank you! Not that I was responsible for that, but people have no clue of how important the sound setup is, it makes or breaks everything.

[@richatlarge462]

I'm sure they set up their own sound and effects at that pizza joint back then. Maybe some post-production as well to get it to sound this clean.

[@antonvoltchok7794]

The bass actually fills out A LOT of the sound, also the bass guy was harmonizing with the guitarist singer by singing in a lower octave, collectively it definitively helped fill out the sound and make it more powerful, like if you took away the bass and the bassists vocals the chorus would have sounded so much weaker, not to take anything away from the guitar singer, that dude has serious pipes

[@richatlarge462]

@Freedom Of Nomad Thanks for that :)

[@mandywelling5261]

Seriously the best version of this song. I think it even beats the original. WOW 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@joeeylee]

“that was perfect.” - the guy at the end …it absolutely was. bravo, guys!

[@carloscunha1181]

I drink whisky, and listen to Mike Masse covers! Pretty much makes for a perfect night!

[@Vanedis]

I hear ya buddy, for me it's wine that does the trick though.

[@PlasmaFairy5]

Sweet!

[@MJ-gj6ep]

lol

[@dscan01]

Ah Snap! That's what I'm doin

[@DaJackalFIN]

Same here! :)

[@leonardomalheiros7628]

Wtf? Be you angels? Congratulations guys. Most beautiful cover that I see... Brazil loves you!

[@mikemasse]

+Leonardo Malheiros Nay, we are but men. Rock!

[@leonardomalheiros7628]

Mike Masse Oh Man!!! You know the Tenacious D!!!! I'm your fan brother! Brazil are your fan. We need musicians like you!! Thanks for answering. Great KZbinr!

[@pascalmerschaudio]

+Mike Massé Best comment Tenacious D... Rock on guys

[@CommandoIvan]

Right? Hell if I didn't know any better, I'd think they were the actual singers.

[@MINNISOTA420]

lmfao that reference tho.

[@PaulLaurinD]

I’m blown away by this man’s vocals. Love this song

[@bobberry6478]

Lower register harmonies are sometims hard to grasp. Kudos to Jeff Hall. They never have done it better. What a moment in time.......

[@SuperhelterYNWA]

I hereby declare ‘unplugged at the pizzeria’ the best unplugged gig of all time. Sorry Kurt...

[@flatlandrory]

Best comment. Ever.

[@maryh3470]

😅 for real tho

[@type2gurl296]

Lolz

[@kfrizzle1230]

Please dont imply that Nirvana's Unplugged was superior to Alice In Chains'

[@johnbondsoni1172]

Dont do my kurtis dirty like that

[@bertisat2008]

Hello Mike, my name is Albert, I live in the south of Spain. I just wanted to let you know how much your music has inspired me as a struggling musician and especially in the last year, my wife left me for another man after 8 years together, I was devastated and broke, but from viewing your videos and listening to your singing, I built up the courage to keep on gigging and started writing and managed to record my own album. Nine months after this happened, I now earn a living with regular gigs. I´m sure you have heard this story a thousand times, but you really helped me get through and I want to thank you and Jeff Hall...and all your musicians. Amazing syncronicity between you guys, most of your covers are all better than the original singers.(i bet they know that too..haha). Anyway...thanks for your voice, good luck and keep rocking. Alberto.

[@mikemasse]

Thanks for sharing that, Alberto. So glad to hear it! Best of luck with your music.

[@nellychess]

Alberto where can we see you?

[@wguid]

Stay strong, brother

[@jayanthkumar7964]

Alberto, do let us know where we can see you perform. One day i hope to travel to the South of Spain and would love to see such passion come to life in a performance. Cheers and all the best.

[@joaovidalfigueiredo6707]

forza alberto, saludo de portugal

[@adambeauchamp970]

What's nice about these two singing this... there's no voice mods or tech. Just pure beauty and talent.

[@1712phil]

Bass guy completely into it 🔥🔥 Both stunning. Love it 😍

[@ferreira7654]

The vocals are just unbelievably amazing.

[@lifeanddecay]

If we ever make alien contact this is what we need to show them

[@mikemasse]

That made me smile, thanks 😊

[@TheMatkotai]

Maybe these two are aliens themselves. The way they sang is out of this world !!

[@TheMatkotai]

What a harmony !!

[@ymingo9185]

SHOW ME WHAT YOU GOT!!

[@Joeysnew532]

Bleep bloop. ☮️

[@h0891]

One of my favourite covers, years later still enjoying it. ❤

[@lesh3213]

Might just be best cover or version of the song. Hands down! Thank you Mike and Jeff