Albums
graceland - paul simon

Graceland

Paul Simon

1986
11 tracks
43 min
singer-songwriter

Album Description

"Graceland," released in the summer of 1986, is a landmark album by Paul Simon, marking his seventh studio effort and arguably his most influential. This record is a groundbreaking fusion of American folk-rock with the vibrant rhythms, harmonies, and instrumentation of South African music. The album's unique sound was crafted with the help of local musicians, including Ladysmith Black Mambazo, General M.D. Shirinda & The Gaza Sisters, and the Boyoyo Boys, among others.

"Graceland" is renowned for its rich, full sound, characterized by glorious vocal harmonies and a robust low end. The album opens with the iconic "The Boy in the Bubble" and includes standout tracks like "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes" and "You Can Call Me Al." Each song on the album tells a story, weaving together elements of Simon's personal experiences and the cultural richness of South Africa.

The album was an unprecedented global success, topping the charts in almost every country it was released in. Its innovative blend of musical styles not only captivated audiences worldwide but also paved the way for future collaborations across different musical genres. "Graceland" remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its musical innovation and enduring appeal. The album's legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans alike, making it a staple in the discographies of both Paul Simon and the broader music landscape.

25 aug 1986(P) 2012 Paul Simon under exclusive license of Sony Music Entertainment

Tracks

The Boy In the BubblePaul Simon
3:59
GracelandPaul Simon
4:51
I Know What I Know (with General M.D.Shirinda & The Gaza Sisters)Paul Simon, General M.D.Shirinda, The Gaza Sisters
3:13
Gumboots (with Boyoyo Boys)Paul Simon, Boyoyo Boys
2:44
Diamonds on the Soles of Her ShoesPaul Simon
5:49
You Can Call Me AlPaul Simon
4:40
Under African SkiesPaul Simon
3:37
Homeless (with Ladysmith Black Mambazo)Paul Simon, Ladysmith Black Mambazo
3:48
Crazy Love, Vol. IIPaul Simon
4:19
That Was Your Mother (with Good Rockin' Doopsie & The Twisters)Paul Simon, Good Rockin' Doopsie, The Twisters
2:52
All Around the World or the Myth of Fingerprints (with Los Lobos)Paul Simon, Los Lobos
3:16

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About Paul Simon

Paul Simon, an iconic American singer-songwriter, has left an indelible mark on the music world with his evocative lyrics and timeless melodies. Born Paul Frederic Simon, he gained fame alongside Art Garfunkel as Simon & Garfunkel, a duo whose harmonious blend of folk and rock became the soundtrack to the 1960s counterculture. Their classic hits like "The Sound of Silence," "Mrs. Robinson," and "The Boxer" continue to resonate with audiences today. Simon's solo career is equally impressive, spanning 15 studio albums filled with introspective and poetic songwriting. With 12 Grammy Awards to his name, including three for Album of the Year, Paul Simon's contributions to music are unparalleled. His recent work and performances showcase his enduring talent and ability to adapt, even in the face of personal challenges like hearing loss. Whether revisiting beloved classics or exploring new musical territories, Paul Simon's music remains a testament to his artistic genius and enduring legacy.

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