Paul Simon’s Graceland

An illumination of Graceland, Paul Simons celebrated and controversial album of 1986, made in collaboration with American and Black South African musicians against the violent backdrop of apartheid.

Celebrated, controversial, and conspicuously eclectic, Paul Simons Graceland stands among the monumental albums of the 20th century. This book explores how and why it made its mark, from the international collaborations that defined its musical character, to the inflamed political environment from which it emerged.

Graceland incorporated some of South Africas most beloved popular music traditions, including township jive, kwela, and the intricate isicathamiya harmonies of Ladysmith Black Mambazo. It also featured contributions from Central and West African musicians, alongside an array of North American styles Chicano rock, country, synth-pop, Louisiana zydeco and, of course, Simons characte