Album Info
| Artist: | Paul Simon |
| Album: | Graceland |
| Released: | UK, 9 Oct 2020 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | The Boy In The Bubble | |
| A2 | Graceland | |
| A3 | I Know What I Know | |
| A4 | Gumboots | |
| A5 | Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes | |
| B1 | You Can Call Me Al | |
| B2 | Under African Skies | |
| B3 | Homeless | |
| B4 | Crazy Love, Vol.II | |
| B5 | That Was Your Mother | |
| B6 | All Around The World Or The Myth Of Fingerprints |
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Description
Paul Simon - Graceland LP Vinyl Record (Transparent Clear Vinyl)
Graceland is the seventh solo studio album by American singer-songwriter Paul Simon. It was produced by Simon, engineered by Roy Halee and released on August 25, 1986, by Warner Bros. Records.
The album features an eclectic mixture of musical styles including pop, a cappella, zydeco, isicathamiya, rock, and mbaqanga. Mbaqanga, or "township jive", originated as the street music of Soweto, South Africa. The album was strongly influenced by the earlier work of South African musicians Johnny Clegg and Sipho Mchunu, and their band Juluka's Zulu-Western pop crossover music. Juluka was South Africa's first integrated pop band. Simon includes thanks to Clegg, Juluka, and Juluka's producer Hilton Rosenthal in the "Special Thanks" citation in Graceland's liner notes. He included American "roots" influences with tracks featuring zydeco musicians such as Rockin' Dopsie and Tex-Mex musicians.
Graceland alternates between playful and more serious songs. Simon thought of it as like a play: "As in a play, the mood should keep changing. A serious song may lead into an abstract song, which may be followed by a humorous song." On many songs, Simon and Halee employ a Synclavier to "enhance" the acoustic instruments, creating an electronic "shadow".
Pressed on Transparent Clear Vinyl.
"Graceland," released on August 25, 1986, is one of those albums that not only defined a moment in music history but also transcended it, leaving a lasting impact on the world. Paul Simon's seventh solo studio album is a masterpiece that blends American folk rock with South African musical styles, creating a sound that was both innovative and deeply resonant.
The story of "Graceland" begins with Paul Simon's fascination with a cassette tape of South African township music. This led him to travel to Johannesburg in 1985, where he collaborated with local musicians, including Ladysmith Black Mambazo, a male choral group whose harmonies became a signature element of the album. The recording sessions were a cultural exchange that brought together diverse musical traditions, resulting in a rich tapestry of sound that was unlike anything heard before.
One of the standout tracks, "You Can Call Me Al," became a hit with its catchy melody and quirky lyrics. The song's music video, featuring Chevy Chase, added to its popularity and helped introduce Simon's new sound to a broader audience. Another highlight is the title track, "Graceland," which tells a poignant story of personal reflection and redemption, set against the backdrop of a road trip to Elvis Presley's iconic home.
"Graceland" was not without controversy. Simon faced criticism for breaking the cultural boycott of South Africa, which was in place due to the apartheid regime. However, he defended his decision by emphasizing the collaborative nature of the project and the exposure it gave to South African musicians. In retrospect, many view "Graceland" as a significant cultural bridge that brought attention to the vibrant music scene in South Africa.
Critically, "Graceland" was a triumph. It received widespread acclaim for its innovative fusion of styles and its lyrical depth. The album won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1987, cementing its place in music history. Publications like Rolling Stone and The New York Times praised Simon's adventurous spirit and the album's ability to transcend cultural boundaries.
The influence of "Graceland" extends beyond its immediate success. It played a crucial role in popularizing world music in the Western mainstream, paving the way for other artists to explore and incorporate global sounds into their work. The album's legacy is evident in the continued popularity of its songs and the respect it commands among musicians and fans alike.
In 2012, Paul Simon celebrated the 25th anniversary of "Graceland" with a documentary titled "Under African Skies," which revisited the making of the album and addressed the controversies surrounding it. The film provided a deeper understanding of the album's impact and the collaborative spirit that made it possible.
"Graceland" remains a testament to the power of music to bridge cultural divides and create something truly unique. Its blend of storytelling, rhythm, and melody continues to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic that stands as one of Paul Simon's greatest achievements.
