Watch 18,000+ performers in this Pub Choir video masterfully cover Toto’s “Africa.”

This rendition of Toto’s “Africa” is nothing short of spectacular. Vice highlighted the song’s enduring charm in a November 2022 article, noting its universal appeal despite its age and the somewhat cryptic lyrics. The song’s intricate composition, complete with dynamic drum beats and rich harmonies, contributes to its widespread acclaim.

The song’s enigmatic lyrics, according to Vice, might actually contribute to its wide appeal. David Paich, the song’s primary composer, mentioned that “Africa” is more about his fascination with the continent itself than a personal love story, inspired by a late-night documentary showcasing Africa’s challenges, despite never having visited the continent himself. Now, picture this song performed by 18,000 individuals:

These 18,000 participants are part of the Pub Choir, captured in various Australian locales and seamlessly merged into one video. The project involved recording 18,812 participants and 37 musical guests across 15 cities, under the leadership of Astrid Jorgensen, a New Zealand-born singer, conductor, and composer who moved to Australia in 1998 and holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium.

Since its inception in Brisbane in 2017 by Jorgensen, Pub Choir has aimed to make singing accessible to all, echoing the ethos of Bill Drummond’s “17” project. Pub Choir events involve teaching a popular song in three-part harmony to people without formal vocal training and sharing the performance online. The viral success of their rendition of “Zombie” by The Cranberries in November 2017 significantly boosted their popularity. Here’s another engaging performance by Pub Choir, this time of Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill”:

Despite the complexity of “Running Up That Hill,” the amateur singers of Pub Choir handle it impressively well. The group’s philosophy, as stated on their website, centers on the joy of music-making rather than technical perfection, promoting a fun and inclusive environment where everyone is encouraged to sing, regardless of skill level. Pub Choir’s events blend music, comedy, and camaraderie, inviting attendees to simply enjoy singing together in a relaxed setting.