Toto, a band more traditionally known far more for their musicianship than their lyrics, delivers an interesting tale on this stand-out track from 1988’s The Seventh One: A magazine writer meets and becomes captivated by a South-African girl named Mushanga, while on assignment in South Africa.

That’s not the only thing, however, that helps set “Mushanga” apart from some of their other material. It isn’t merely a great Toto song; it’s a veritable drum clinic from the late Jeff Porcaro. I’d argue from a drumming perspective, the “Mushanga groove” is second only to Jeff’s “Rosanna” shuffle. (Jeff even included a glimpse of how he came up with this groove in an instructional drumming video in the late ’80s.)

Elsewhere, “Mushanga” features in-the-pocket bass playing by Mike Porcaro that segues into the exceptional flamenco-esque guitar by Steve Lukather and some guest steel drumming by Andy Narell. Jim Horn, who took a terrific turn on “You Are the Flower” from Toto’s debut, returns to contribute tasty flute and recorder embellishments that further season this track.

In addition to Jeff Porcaro’s drum clinic, “Mushanga” provided Joseph Williams with an opportunity to show off his vocal range and talents. Starting soft and understated, Joe’s vocals shift into high gear at about 1:03 and build from there into a powerful proclamation: “You smiled though you were suffering; I didn’t understand!” Williams belts it out with seeming ease and undisputed power.

Credits:
Bass - Mike Porcaro
Drums, Percussion - Jeff Porcaro
Guitar - Steve Lukather
Keyboards - David Paich
Lead Vocals - Joseph Williams
Synthesizer - Steve Porcaro
Backing Vocals - Patti Austin
Percussion - Joe Porcaro
Recorder, Flute - Jim Horn
Steel Drums - Andy Narell

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