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synth from “africa” by toto | ToneDB

africa

toto

synth

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Tone Profile

The iconic, bright, and slightly breathy melodic synth sound from 'Africa,' reminiscent of a synthesized flute layered with percussive elements, defining the song's main hook.

Signal Chain

Instrument: Yamaha CS-80

Processing: API Console EQ, Lexicon 224 Digital Reverb, EMT 250 Digital Reverb (possibly blended or alternative), Subtle Studio Delay (tape or digital)

Other: This is the primary synth for the main melody. Custom patch created by David Paich. Direct input to an API mixing console. This synth part was meticulously layered with six tracks of real kalimba (played by Lenny Castro) and also with Paich's guide vocal singing the melody to add unique texture and attack. The CS-80's polyphonic aftertouch and ribbon controller were key for expressiveness.

Recording Notes

  • Recorded in 1981 at Sunset Sound, Studio 2, Los Angeles, California, engineered by Greg Ladanyi.
  • The main melodic 'flute/kalimba' sound is primarily a custom patch on David Paich's Yamaha CS-80.
  • The CS-80 sound was layered with six tracks of a real kalimba played by Lenny Castro, and also with David Paich's guide vocal singing the melody line to create the final composite sound.
  • The brassy synth stabs in the choruses were reportedly created using a stock patch on the Yamaha GS1 digital synthesizer, played by David Paich.
  • Steve Porcaro also contributed significantly with other CS-80 parts, including brass pads and textures.
  • Extensive use of high-end studio reverbs like the Lexicon 224 and EMT 250 was critical to the spacious sound of the track.

Recreation Tips

  • To recreate the CS-80 'flute' sound, use a synth emulator like Arturia CS-80 V or U-He Diva.
  • Start with two oscillators. One oscillator (e.g., square or filtered saw wave) for the body of the sound. The second oscillator (or a noise source through a resonant filter, or a sine wave) should have a very fast pitch envelope creating a 'chiff' or breathy attack. The CS-80's ring modulator might have been subtly used.
  • Utilize portamento/glide for some notes and polyphonic aftertouch if your controller and synth support it, for expressive control similar to the CS-80.
  • Crucially, layer this synth patch with a clean kalimba sample or a dedicated kalimba VST instrument. The kalimba provides the distinct percussive attack and organic feel.
  • Apply a lush hall or plate reverb (e.g., Valhalla VintageVerb emulating a Lexicon 224 or EMT 250) with a decay time of around 2-3 seconds.
  • Add a subtle stereo delay (e.g., 1/8th or 1/4 note, possibly ping-pong) to enhance width and depth.
  • For the GS1 brass stabs (if also recreating those), FM synthesis (like in Yamaha DX7 or Plogue Chipsounds) or samples of a Yamaha GS1 brass patch would be appropriate. These are typically bright with a sharp attack.

Sources