Graceland

One of my favorite records ever.

Definitely Paul Simon’s best album I’ve heard. This and Rhythm of the Saints were actually my introduction to Simon, after which I got into Simon & Garfunkel, now one of my all-time favorite groups. Graceland has hovered in and out of my top 100 over the years, and now it sits closer to ~200, but it’s still a favorite album of mine. I’ve always been mesmerized by the cheery upbeat music but often melancholy lyrics, discussing heartbreak, homelessness, starvation, and wealth inequality. Simon claimed that he wasn’t writing protest songs, and simultaneously he was criticized for going to South Africa to record (breaking the cultural boycott against apartheid), but I’ve always appreciated the cultural fusion on the album and understood many of the lyrics to be vaguely underhandedly critical of apartheid and overtly hopeful for a better world.

Paul Simon’s Graceland is one of those albums that I consider to be “important”. It had been 3 years since Simon’s last album, which had only reached #35 on the US charts, and 6 years since his last top 40 hit. Simon had just turned 45, he was recently divorced, and his star seemed to be fading. He’s quoted as saying he was “in a tailspin”. In response, he did something completely different. He was given a bootleg cassette of music from South Africa, and ended up going to South Africa to create an album with local musicians. And what an album! Graceland features a sound that was heavily influenced by the South African music scene, and has a sound and feel that stretched into new areas. The influence varies from light to heavy, but is always present. The result is Simon’s most successful album. Multi platinum around the world, Top 10 in at least a dozen countries. And deservedly so. The songs range from brilliant to very good. It opened the door for wider recognition and discussions about the political situation in South Africa, it exposed countless people to new types of music. It’s filled with memorable songs, and the total is greater than the sum of the parts. 5/5

Had heard it before but definitely didn't remember how complete of an album it was. Feels like when Mr. Garcia used to talk about the impact of albums being meant to listen to as a whole. Nice and upbeat, but also fitting different moods. A reggae feel. Great start.

ME HA MOLADO MUCHO

Undeniably interesting and eclectic, however, Simon's unambitious, meandering vocals are outshined by all the other musicians around him. It captures an early 80's vibe that's similar to, and yet "safer" and more boring than, The Police's work of the same era (albeit better produced).

Deciding to rate albums on a scale of 1-5. My first album was “Graceland” by Paul Simon. I knew of one song by him called “You can call me Al” just never knew the artist. I did not listen to the deluxe edition so I listened to the original 11 songs. 43 minutes of something new on every track but it didn’t sound like it was chasing an hot sound of the times. I didn’t dislike any tracks but there were a few I wouldn’t play again on a random day. I’ll listen to this album a few more times before my next one drops. 3.7/5 and that’s me setting the bar around above average with my first playthrough.

loved it as a kid, still do

I enjoyed it. 'Nuff said. -8/10

Great album, no real skips. Songs make you want to tap your foot. I would say the second half after You Can Call Me Al is a bit weaker but it's still great.

Love the energy, not flawless but enjoyed the whole thing 9/10

Totally awesome. His voice is fantastic and the songs are wonderfully melodic and creative and quirky. I never got bored. -0.5 because I felt like he could have explored more different sounds harmony-wise (it’s very pentatonic and major triad-y) but other than that pretty perfect for me, 9.5/10

9.5/10 - I am a little biased as I grew up listening to Paul Simon and a bunch of songs on this album. Almost every song hits and even some of the ones I had not heard before surpassed my expectations.

Pretty good songs, didn't love the back half of the album though 7/10

Never been a huge fan of Simon or Garfunkel. Don’t hate their stuff, but never really got into it. This felt the same for me; nothing offensively bad, but nothing really blew me away. 5.5/10

hell nah, this blows middly, 80s and apartheid with shitty production. (You Can Call Me Al is pretty good ngl brah) 6/10

It was ok, but not a great album for me

I've always loved this album but I didn't know about the history behind it and now I feel weird about it! Still thinking on it.

It was chill and happy, but not my cot

We thought it was Greatland.

Think I’m good on Paul Simon for a while thank you.

I didn't like it very much, except for 1 or 2 songs.

Not for me but it was a god listen

Great lyrics, sunny vibe but kinda works in winter, world music influence is pretty cool and makes it stand apart

Goat

Love this!

Paul Simon was married to Carrie Fisher? Interesting. Anyways. This album seems to be pretty polarizing. I see folks either loving it or hating it, so here's my two cents: this record is fine. It sounds inspired, I guess, but the production doesn't always work. Why do the backing vocals on "I Know What I Know" sound like that? The backing vocals on "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes" sound great, so why do they sound so shrill here? Why is that accordion so, so loud on "Gumboots", and why does the sax sound so strange and compressed? Was that on purpose? Where does he get off writing "Under African Skies"? (Although the female backing vocals on it are lovely.) But I can hear this album's influence on bands I love, most pointedly Vampire Weekend, and I can understand why somebody would love it. I can also understand why somebody else would hate it. I left this record wanting to hear more South African musicians (particularly choirs) and their music, but sans Paul Simon. Highlights: Graceland, Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes, Homeless

I can appreciate folk rock, but maybe not so far back as the 60s folk rock. Not the worst music to listen to, but Graceland was alright. Everything else sounded like lots of Tuba and a boring voice.

A true classic for African inspired music ...

Better than I would have guessed however not one that I’d add to my rotation. I like the album art.

I've heard this many times throughout the years and often pull songs into playlists when my Mother-in-law, Chris, is around as its one of her favorites. I also had a former boss who loved it and had a CD on repeat often during my years of working with him. I remember him explaining some of the history of the album, Paul Simon breaking rules to record with the artists and such. Also getting more and more into New Orleans Jazz these years I appreciate those aspects of the album more and more. And aging helps one appreciate it more and more as fatherhood and other mature themes show up often. "That Was Your Mother" reminds me of a moment in an episode of Bluey in which the dad takes out an old box and tells his kids it included stuff from, "back when I was cool". It's a beautiful album and the oddness of the lyrics, at times, which confused me as a kid is much more appreciated by the older me.

Some really amazing tracks on this album, especially love the African melodies. Unfortunately though the great tracks really made the small number of weaker ones stand out for me. Couple of less zydeco tracks and this would have been a five for me.

when it's not boring it's annoying. no thanks

A strong album with great melodies, backed by South African sounds

Didn’t like quite a lot of this, don’t get the hype.

Cultural Appropriation: The Album

A little tough to get into but overall very nice!

I'm not a big fan of it, honestly. it's well made but not something i'd listen to if it weren't on this list

not my favorite but i like his voice

One of my favorites since it came out. I remember walking in downtown Lansing by the capitol and the courtrooms-with this album on a cassette tape in a WalkMan. Priceless memories of HOPE. Perfect listen for 12/31/23 a.m. retrospective (but would also be great for 1/1/24 a.m. prospective!).

Pretty good album. The incorporating of South African musical elements made it sound very fresh

I've played this album before (and know the singles "Graceland," "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoe," and "You Can Call Me Al"), but more as background music—I haven't done a real active listen until now. The opening track, "The Boy in the Bubble" is like a new wave song with tubas and accordions—very interesting sound. The lyrics still feel relevant today, addressing the ambivalence of living in an era where technology (and how humans utilize it) is both amazing and terrifying. The third track "I Know What I Know" could be a Talking Heads song. The fourth track "Gumboots," which features the South African mbaqanga (mix of jazz and traditional music) group The Boyoyo Boys almost feels like a vallenato song with the prominent accordion. I've often wondered about the cross influences between African music, American jazz, klezmer, and South American folk traditions, so this was a very interesting track to listen to. Overall the album is a very enjoyable listen. The combination of 80s pop, South African sounds, and New Orleans music makes for a very upbeat album, though there's also plenty of introspection to be found with a close listen to the lyrics. The controversial history of the album in the context of South African apartheid, while important for listeners to read up on and take into account, shouldn't deter people from listening to the album (in my opinion). I think the album is a good example of how one can support marginalized populations and artists without supporting oppressive governments and is a good reminder of how nuance is always important when looking at history, and political movements more generally.

Almost 4

A little too 80s goofy for me but Paul Simons genius cant be denied. Everything sounds crisp and clean. A low 4 for me and my favorite was Graceland track no 2

This is such a strange album. I know it already but it's Paul Simon getting into world music and doing his own thing with it. Musically it's clearly very skilled and it's hard to give a note but it isn't a 5/5 for me like on a lot of lists.

The mix is a little muddy /busy on some tracks. Some stand out singles like Diamonds on the soles of her shoes and You can Call me Al. I think as an album it could have cut like 3 tracks to tighten things up.

Paul is an entertaining story teller. Graceland had that beat Paul Simon is known for.

Mäßig bis auf einzelne bekannte Lieder. Teils langweilig.

Chilled nusic

Iconic

A really beautiful album. I’ve listened before but so passively. It was a pleasure to listen to again after all these years.

The music sounds good, but SO much baggage.

Cracking album

This is such a lively album. I love the instrumentation here and the energy is a treat, however, I really struggle to engage with his singing style. Even on Diamonds on the Soles of her Shoes, a song which has been deep in my soul since I can remember, I enjoy despite his singing. I love the inspiration he's obviously got from other cultures and I think he manages to let them shine while keeping the music his own here. Also, You Can Call Me Al is sublime. Standout Track: Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes

An incredible album, it's ageless and sophisticated. The songs are so musical and fun.

Nice songs and good introduction to African music.

It was interesting. Not really my kind of music, but I was able to appreciate the “world music” aspect to it. Very interesting culturally

Absolute all-time banger of a classic, one great song after another, & showcasing different African music styles to ears that would never have otherwise heard them. And this version comes with a side-order of entertainment courtesy of predictable yawning about 'cultural appropriation' by self-appointed custodians.

Why am I soft in the middle when life is so hard? This would be a solid 2 without call me al.

No notes.

could i write poetry to this? n

A monumental album by an American treasure. Easy five stars.

This is one of my all time favorite albums. Nothing says summer time like the car windows open and this blasting at full volume.

Not my favorite of Paul Simon's work by a long shot.

Pretty gooooooood

music for vampires. hated. (⌐■_■)

In recent months I’ve really tried to give fresh chances to artists I’ve had it out for, Paul Simon included. There are times on this record where guest musicians are really getting into it, going somewhere, and then Paul Simon starts singing again and I snap back to reality. These are still Paul Simon songs. It’s not gonna happen for me.

The only Paul Simon solo effort that can touch (or sometimes surpass) his work with Garfunkle. It has such a fun, playful sound, with such gorgeous complements from the South African musicians that join him. My big gripe here though... can you really call this a Paul Simon solo album when so much of the magic is purely from the musicians he employs here? I know that is opening a very, very large can of worms, but I can't help think it while listening through the whole thing.

Simon's got a hit baby!

A great album and lives up to the hype. Full of great songs and worthy of its high rating.

Seems to be a huge divide between those that love this album and those that find it to be “sanitised world music for middle class drones with no imagination and less soul.” Maybe I’m a middle class drone with no imagination or soul, but I love this album like few others. Listening to it never fails to make me happy. Whether that is because of its innate musical qualities or because of nostalgia and my own history with it, I can’t say. All I know is that, to me, this album is as close to perfect as music gets.

Pure brilliance. One of the most artistic albums you'll ever hear, and every single direction clicks beautifully. Favorite track: I Know What I Know

You Can Call Me Al.

Paul Simon is cool, call me Al is a bop.

Ive probably listened to this at least once a month since 1986. In my opinion one of the greatest albums of all time. If you like this, I'd recommend listening to the 25th anniversary edition. There's some alternate and instrumental versions, plus a really interesting description on how the song Graceland was put together.

All time great

Pretty good, better than I expected

There are some cool songs on this album. The theme of savior / rapture and his son is kind of interesting, for his sake I hope he and his son made it to Graceland. Graceland is catchy and chill. Diamonds on the soles of her shoes is great. I enjoyed the different parts of the song, especially the intro. It's the same group as homeless, which is my favorite song on the album. Homeless just hits a spot in my brain, I must have heard this as a child because it's very nostalgic and brings back warm memories. "That was your mother" was much better once I listened to the lyrics. I could imagine myself as Simons son, listening to this song about my family. Cool album.

Solo Paul Simon is not my jam. Its a weird mix of older folk-rock sounds with very produced 60s synth sounds. Not my favorite combo. Simon and Garfunkel is my preference

Not really a fan of Paul Simon, so this will be an interesting listen. After listening, my feelings about him haven’t changed. Not a fan.

She says “Losing love is like a window in your heart Well, everybody sees you’re blown apart Everybody sees the wind blow” Probably should write an entire essay about this album. Linda Ronstadt. Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Youssou Ndour. Adrian Belew. African skies. Diamonds. It’s all good and we forgive Paul Simon for whatever sins of appropriation because this album introduced a huge audience to a kind of music we were previously unaware.

making a fusion album incorporating black music is cultural appropriation? Any doubts should fade as soon as you hear the remarkable accordion intro to The Boy in the Bubble. The sound is tight and, unlike most 80's pop, is teeming with life. The song quality diminishes in the back half, but the production is so natural and immaculate its difficult to even care. Was going to give this thing a 4, but swayed to a 5 out of spite of the comments that totally misunderstand the record's ideologies.

I like it, and I like it more than I ever have, but I still feel like I’m supposed to like it more than I should. Give me at least 3 S&G records before this one. 4/5

Somehow never listened to this completely before. It sure is eclectic. Energetic and original production. I think it does sound pioneering in the inclusion for other musicians and other musical styles other than US staples. Title track is much sadder than I realised, I have to skip "Al" because that's one song I never need to hear another time in my life. Will probably re-listen in the future I do find Simons solo stuff patchy, probably cos it's so varied, sometimes it's hard to settle into a groove.

Turns out I love every Paul Simon song ever.

On the way home and while cooking

One of the best Western musicians taking influence from some of the best parts of African music. What more could a person ever desire?

This album is a masterpiece. I remember listening to my Dad's copy when I was a kid and being in love with "Homeless" and "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes". They are so easy to just get lost in.

Flókinn karakter hann Paul Simon. Einstaklega hæfileikaríkur með nef fyrir góðu stöffi. Sumir kalla hann þjóf og backstabber. Stundum er það blind-spot hjá fólki með náðargáfu og óöryggi á háu leveli. Hugsa að það sé bæði í bland bara. En tónlistarbransinn á það til að vera cut-throat og maður verður að líta framhjá ákveðnum skíthælastælum nema maður ætli að hlusta einvörðungu á Stevie Wonder eða eitthvað. Hvað plötuna varðar er þetta óneitanlega meistaraverk. Skemmtilegt og ódauðlegt 80's soft soundið sem virkar bara svo vel og hefur gert alla tíð frá 1986 og mun líklega gera um ókomna tíð.

Svakalega skemmtileg plata. Paul Simon einn besti lagahöfundur sinnar kynslóðar.

Quirked up white boy with a little bit of swag.

I listened to Malcolm Gladwell's Paul Simon interview/memoir audiobook, Miracle and Wonder, when it was first released in 2021, just now listening to Graceland. What an impressive album, going to give this one a few more listens!

Great album for a long car ride or for getting out of a shitty mood, but the last 3 songs are kind of stinkers. 3.7

Love this album. For being 40 years old, it's pretty timeless. The zydeco songs feel out of place though. Interesting history with SA apartheid. 4.7

A classic. I don't know if I listened to the whole album before. But upbeat and lovely.

Nice chill music

Not a fan of this one. Paul Simon seems to like to write songs about conversations he's had with various people and the lyrics read like a bad story. "I said to her/him" and "he/she said to me" all over the place. I do appreciate the use of of the accordion on the album as you don't often hear an instrument like that but all in all this is a 2 out of 5.

Really great, wistful album. Fun rhythm and vocals, unique and lyrics with substance. Favorite tracks: Graceland, Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes, You Can Call Me Al

great rhythms and interesting sound. very complex pop album

It's not really to my taste, but I can see how this album stands out, especially compared to the typically more flashy or dramatic 80s music. The sound is fairly poppy but homey at the same time, with unique South African touches. The storytelling in the lyrics is good, and the delivery is expressive.

Love this album. Very folklore, fun, and extremely nostalgic

Loving the African vibes which actually led me down a rabbit hole of zydeco and mbaqanga playlists on Spotify. I understand there’s a bit of controversy about cultural appropriation but this helped me discover some new music genres so that’s cool. I guess like a lot of things this is quite complicated. Songs wise the majority are okay with some misses due to being cheesy 80s pop compositions.

Angels in the Architecture Using his massive recognition, Paul Simon readily showed the world what African music was all about, even during a cultural boycott. Some highly recognizable pop hits mixed with unexpected genres really make this album stick out as a commercial and cultural success

Ok

I astounded by all the 5 stars on this album. Bass playing is good but the tone is outrageously bad. I’ve never heard LBM but I’m certain they are so much better when Paul Simon isn’t involved. 2.18 average per track.

I watched a documentary about Graceland and the groups that were fighting apartheid in South Africa were disgusted that Paul Simon breached the embargo to make this album. I’d agree that PS probably shouldn’t have made it... I’m not sure if it was his US exceptionalism or he genuinely thought making it would improve the situation in SA. The fact is I like this album a lot and to me it sounds completely unique. The bass line for diamonds is easily one of my favourites of all time. Would I have heard of Ladysmith Black Mambazo if this album was never made? Probably not. Others have said it’s cultural appropriation but some of my favourite music has been a result of a clash of different cultures and genres, and it’s not as if he took the black music and performed it with white American musicians like other celebrated albums on this list. Having said all that when I found out that Graceland is literally Elvis Presley’s house I thought that was a dumb thing to name an ‘iconic’ song/album after.

Some parts were boring but some were cool. This is fine to be on the list. Ez 3

fuck off

Pretty corny but there's some good parts, especially the bass.

Always enjoyed this album

Bad and probably racist

Not my favorite from Paul.

Virkelig godt albums kendte kun titelnummeret men var især fan af acapella-stykkerne på nogle af de senere numre.

So good. Paul Simon tells great stories and has such a unique style/sound.

Amazing!

Very fun, very easy. Cool songs, lots of diversion

wah

I've always found him a but cute - but there is some great music on this album, and I think he does deserve credit for helping to transmit that beautiful South African music to a wider audience (though of course the original is best!)

8.0/10 Listened to on the way to Katie and Brian's to watch AEW Full Gear 2023. Listened to with Jack and Cammie. Jack gave the grade. "Different, but fun and would listen to again."

classic paul

This album was everywhere back in the day but I never got into it and after listening to it now, I still won't get into it. There are good musicians on here. The playing is solid. But it's drowned out by annoying 80s production and synths that sound like horns which is one of the worst 80s tropes. Add to the fact the accusations of plagiarism and appropriating black music to a white audience makes this album kind of cringey.

Not exactly my Genre. A bit too mellow and unexciting for me.

Very diverse sound, with a consistent storytelling aspect to the songwriting

So many styles, and layers, of music. Every track is so unique in its construction and style. Amazing.

Very good. Still very catchy. Although wow do I not like some of the bass guitar sounds on this album.

This album has been a part of my life for so long it’s like furniture, but you know, very special furniture. I will knock it down a star because it definitely smells of cultural appropriation, but at least the Apple Music credits included the African musicians.

Historically, Paul Simon is my favorite band/musician. I know he’s had his controversies, including accusations of plagiarism, not excluding this album. There’s also a story about how he was going to produce the first album of a SNL band member as a favor to Lorne Michaels, that artist gave Paul a tape of African music and said “I’d like to do something with this.” and Paul went “Nope. This is mine now.” All that being said: this album exists. I remember being in high school and buying Paul’s albums on CD based on the list of albums on the jacket of his CDs. I remember getting to Graceland, putting the CD in, hitting play, the opening accordion riff starting, and my head turning as I was like “WTF? Did my speaker break? Oh, wait…this is how it’s supposed to sound??” And then my mother immediately reminding me I needed to mow the lawn. I remember mowing the lawn thinking “I gotta hear the rest of this album!” Anyway, I’m retrospect, if I were to tier Paul’s albums, I don’t think I’d put this one in the top tier. He’s got 4 or 5 better albums. It makes sense that this is on this list, though. I get it. It’s still a 4 and there’s some very good songs on here (Diamonds on the Souls of Her Shoes, Graceland) …and then there’s You Can Call Me Al.

Thoughts: Starting with accordion is a brave choice... particularly given the history of this album coming after such a commercial "failure" This is inoffensive but I'm not particularly connecting with anything here. It's fine This continues to be my impression. Nothing that I would say I hate, but nothing above 3 stars personally. I'm still not a fan of the prevalence of the accordion in this album.

Very upbeat, feels Texan. Folk Rock.

“Graceland” is a remarkable reinvention for everyone’s favourite musical control freak, Paul Simon. Twenty-two years after his debut with Art Garfunkel, in the throes of a divorce and plagued by depression, Simon was introduced to South African music and channelled/appropriated (delete as appropriate) their sound into some of the best music of his career. If you’re a sucker for 80’s pop-rock, “Graceland” is indispensable. If you aren’t, just try not to be swept away in the jubilant soundscapes here. The instrumentals are gorgeous: from the accordion and explosive drums which open the record, to the constantly shifting fretless bass throughout, to the joyful and buoyant lead guitar lines as catchy as the vocals, to the always-tasteful-but-unmistakeable synthesisers. And then there’s the roster of featured musicians, adding their distinct flavour to each of the songs. Linda Ronstadt’s vocals perfectly complement Simon’s on the stirring “Under African Skies”. The glorious Ladysmith Black Mambazo run away with “Homeless” and “Diamonds of the Soles of Her Shoes”. Good Rockin’ Dopsie and the Twisters bring accordion, sax and washboard to the barnstorming folk jam “That Was Your Mother”. Los Lobos provide the backing for the excellent, propulsive closing track “All Around the World”. For god’s sake, even Morris Goldberg’s penny whistle in “You Can Call Me Al” is unforgettable. This before we arrive at the glue of the record: Graceland’s lead vocals. Melody after melody, line after line, Simon’s conversational free-flowing tone is at its finest here. Right from the opening, “The Boy in the Bubble”, his lyrics are immaculate: not a single word feels wasted, yet they’re tossed out so casually in Simon’s featherweight tone against such dense instrumentals. The effect is of songs that feel lighter than air, but are so satisfyingly rich in texture. I first heard “Graceland” in 2015 and fell for it pretty much instantly: further listens have only moved it higher and higher in my personal canon. It took me several years to learn about the claims of plagiarism, appropriation, and criticism of Simon for breaking the cultural boycott against apartheid in South Africa by collaborating with its musicians. I don’t want to blindly absolve Simon based on how much I like the music of “Graceland”, and I definitely still have a lot more reading and reckoning to do on the subject. But I do feel that Simon’s repeated intentions - prioritising the artists, giving them a platform, sharing and celebrating cultures - shine through in the joy of these songs, and the ensuing success of acts like Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

This album is great!

Awesome and pure. 4.5

Awesome album.

Classic album. Some of these songs are unreal. Unfortunately there are some tracks that are boring and that general 80s feel in the background takes me down from a 5 to a 4.

Quand je vois Paul Simon, sachant que j'aime énormément ses morceaux de folk, et que je vois la date 1986 et une couverture typique de l'époque, je prends un peu peur parceque je m'attends à un album avec beaucoup de synthétiseurs clichés et à un artiste qui essai de rester à la page Mais loins de là en fait Déjà super surpris par le mélange culturel que représente cet album, on y retrouve beaucoup de musique sud africaine et aussi mexicaine, un mix et une production vraiment hyper clean On reconnait son type de chant et d'écriture, c'est toujours lui, mais plus ouvert à d'autres choses peut être Puis j'ai lu le contexte dans lequel il était au moment de faire cet album et j'ai bien compris son état d'esprit et ça m'a rendu assez joyeux On entend là quelqu'un qui recherche à se réinventer et à s'ouvrir au reste du monde un peu plus, un album au final engagé en pleine apartheid C'est top Belle découverte 4/5

Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes // You Can Call Me Al

Timeless, accessible, full of hits, and somehow not cheesy.

I really like the clear, bright sounds on this album. I think the production is my favorite part of this album. A lot of the licks are very catchy (Graceland, You Can Call Me Al), but they can get pretty repetitive. Simon seems to have a fairly small register, which makes his songs feel sing-songy compared to other artists like Peter Gabriel.

I like: I Know What I Know Gumboots Diamonds On The Sole Of Her Shoes You Can Call Me Al

Paul Simon is an iconic artist that I just can't appreciate. The lyrics are great, and some of the tracks I really enjoy (You Can Call Me Al has a killer synth riff), but in general I just find it to be something I want to come back and listen to in the future. If I ever restart this list again, perhaps I'll find more appreciation in my 50's. For now, 3/5.

You can call me anything and I will be your bodyguaaaaaaaaaard! (Completely butchered the lyrics XD) turns out it's an an apartheid album

Along with Brothers In Arms, Roger The Engineer, and some unknown 10cc compilation, Graceland was stamped deep through my ears into my young brain, likely mostly on the roads between Carshalton and Great Baddow on visits to my dad's parents, and I return to this with a mix of nostalgia and suspicion. I remember the video with Paul Simon and Chevy Chase in white yuppy suits. I've noted before that Paul Simon is a prat, and I wish I had a picture of Steven Van Zandt's face when Simon asked him, hey, isn't Nelson Mandela a communist, that's what Kissinger told me, but this record is so special that no amount of apartheid-swerving or shady plagiarism muttering can spoil it, or prevent a grudging acknowledgment that Simon has an incredible ear, and was able to make a strong suite of pop songs from elements that hadn't been combined before. Post-Carshalton, there was one other time this album played a part in my life: leaving Memphis on a road trip, looking forward to joining my partner on this odyssey a couple of days later, my friend Howard asked me to confirm we were on Elvis Presley Boulevard, which I did, and he told me to put on his mix CD, "Track 3, now!" and Graceland came on, which was where we were going next: a euphoric moment. Good going, plonkerman! Can you try to do this with Japanese noise rock next? Thx!

My favorite album when I was 12, even got to see the tour at the Royal Albert Hall, anti-apartheid protesters and all! Still love it to death

good dad album

Great album. Paul Simon continuing to prove who the genius behind Simon and Garfunkel is.

Ótimo álbum com rock dos anos 60~70.

Excellent classic

Have always and still do love this album!!!!

A remarkably rich and intriguing album. It's crafted with a great deal of beauty and meticulous attention to detail. The album effortlessly navigates through a multitude of musical styles, creating a captivating journey. It was nice to recognize Ladysmith Black Mambazo, whom I first discovered on this website, as part of this musical tapestry.

Wow. Superb stuff. Great record, super eclectic. Favourite tracks: The Boy In The Bubble, Graceland, I Know What I Know, You Can Call Me Al (obvs!)

пол симон пол симон

Defo not my type of music but its very well written for sure.

This is good, for this is the first time to join in this project, I was excited to hear more celle the albums in the future! The first album is really good, it’s a good choice for morning music, it made me relax and chill in the tough morning, very good one!

Mainly: boring.

Yes! I have this one and I feel everyone should! Lovely guitar work, vocal melodies and harmonies. I feel most of the songs are on the same high level

Classics throughout. Superb musicianship. One of the greatest albums of the 80s.

Meh. Cool I guess. Men nei

Very different from anything I've ever engaged with. Really liked the world influences on multiple tracks. Not something I'd pick all the time, but definitely interesting and I wouldn't hate if somebody put it on. Fav tracks: You Can Call Me Al, Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes, Homeless

There’s a lot going on here. Overall, a fun album. Simon’s voice and lyrics are always so great and so on point, and this album is no exception This was a bit of a mish-mash that worked in certain occasions and, in my opinion, felt awkward in others…. kind of like a folk-Afro beats version of Ice-T’s heavy metal project, Body Count. I like both things separately more than I like their sum. It just felt a bit contrived. On top of that, the Dixie/Rockabilly tracks seemed like an afterthought. With any other artist at the helm, I would have likely rated it lower.

Stellar, duh

Middling inoffensive stuff

73/100

An eclectic collection with a folksy vibe.

This album has such a feel good vibe to it, and You Can Call Me Al is such a banger! The songs Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes & Homeless have a real African/ world music feel to them. Favourite songs: You Can Call Me Al, All Around the World or the Myth of Fingerprints, That Was Your Mother, The Boy in the Bubble, Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes, Graceland, "Crazy Love, Vol. 2", Gumboots, Under African Skies, Homeless Least favourite songs: I Know What I Know (simply because of the female accompaniment. Their echoed responses and harmonizing were kind of annoying). 5/5

there's a real nice upbeat style to this album. it feels very hitching a ride on a train and traveling across the united states. i enjoyed listening more than i thought i would.

Lovely album - very listenable with great upbeat tracks

When I saw it was Graceland today I was thrilled, I've always loved Paul Simon. I then went on a deep dive into the cultural context of the album (something I was blissfully unaware of when listening as a child) This is probably 5 stars based on the music alone. The cultural significance removes any question marks.

Fine

It was ok but both ng I will come back too

Interesting album that was a good listen but not my style

excellent

Very enjoyable and guaranteed to put you in a good mood.

It's good it's just not me.

paul got that jungle fever before it was cool. this album gave me an overwhelming desire to purchase some Heinz baked beans.

This record was like dildoing yourself to death. In a chuffing good way, bro. It's sweet serenade, reminded me of a young Nigel Spackman lapping at the pussy of his grandmother. Who is Nigel Spackman?

Nonce

5/5

Nice!

I really like Simon and Garfunkel but just Paul Simon was pretty boring Top Tracks: 1) All Around the World or The Myth of Fingerprints 2) Crazy Love Vol. II 3) You Can Call Me Al

Solid but not mind-blowing. Graceland, You Can Call Me Al, Under African Skies, Homeless, and All Around the World are bops, but the rest of the album is kind of underwhelming to me and I find a lot of the songwriting to be sort of bland. That said, the presence of LBM on this album bumps it up a point for me.

It's great, still. I want to read about it though. Specific vocal moments stand out to me from hearing this play in the car as a child. Linda Ronstadt who is nobody's backup anything (thanks Mom).

One of my favorites

Awesome album

Auðveld hlustun. Ég fíla Paul Simon. Get skellt þessari á fóninn af og til

You Can Call Me Al.

I tell why this album is so well thought of, just not for me.

LP

Wow, the fusion on this album and the quality of the songwriting is absolutely stellar. I was expecting some more temperate folk, but this was an excellent and fulfilling experience. Definitely recommend.

An album I associate with people showing off their new CD player in the 80s. To be fair, the sound is great, but I remember this album being huge and now it just seems OK.

Did not care for this. I didn’t really understand what he was going on about and I really don’t like the musical arrangements overall, it just annoyed me in general. Not for me at all 2 stars

Very cheery-sounding, almost to the point of cheesiness (and the saxophone doesn't help that, IMO). A few songs in a minor key could have done a lot to even out the overall sound. Still, I liked the vocal harmonies and some of the baselines. Lots of familiar songs on this album since my parents listened to this one all the time when I was growing up.

Tää on mahtava albumi. Afrikkalaiset rytmit ja laulannat parasta antia, Simon yksinään ei ehkä jaksaisi kannatella koko levyn läpi.

Excellent light listening with solid instrumental backing to good vocals.

One of my favourites

Lummó og gamaldags. World music vibe sem ég er ekki að fíla. Graceland stendur upp úr, kannski bara af því að ég hef heyrt það áður.

Easy listening. Chill. Very lyrical. Obviously tribal, indigenous inspiration. Major Vampire Weekend influence.

She Paul on my Simon til I Garfunkel

Is this where I rate? I’m saying solid 6.5/10 just because it’s not super my type of music and 1001 best of ALL TIME calls for a difficult scale lol

im definitely biased bc i grew up listening to some songs from this album but after hearing the whole thing i can confirm that i do fuck w this. love the blend of folk-ish style and world music, but i didn't like the last few tracks that much (african skies/homeless/that was your mother)

Ok I just started listening and wow there is a lot of accordion in this first song... I thought it was alright but world music aint my favorite. Overall the politics of the album and its use of South African musical influences during a time of boycotting the apartheid state is far more interesting to me than the actual songs themselves sorry gen x! this one is just ok!

Luv

Really liked the album but wish it had more variation in sounds. Favorite: diamonds on her shoes even though it took a billion years

YES! I love this album!

Already got a Paul Simon album recently. What a coincidence! “You Can Call me Al” was a great song. Probably 3 stars; I liked the other album better I think.

It is one of the most feel-good albums I’ve ever listened to. Loved it! Lyrically intriguing and musically otherworldly, he puts you in a place you’ve never quite been before but somehow feels commonplace and rather familiar. Excited to listen again. I think I had heard 3 of the songs, of course the smash hit Call Me Al, and I feel like I’ve heard Boy In the Bubble too. Homeless as well. Great record! Onto the next!

Not my cup of tea. Boring

Great lyrics, chill vibes

Great songs. Can see the African influences clearly. Couple of real bangers on it. Very poetic

I thought I was in for a wierd ride with the opening part of the first song, but I actually really enjoyed it from then on. There was a few weird moments still, but not offputting. It wasn't mind blowingly good but it was a nice listen. I just enjoy the african imput in the songs. I don't think there were any stand out tracks, but they all had a nice groove to them.

J'ai bien aimé sur le moment, mais je constate un jour après que l'écoute ne m'a pas marqué au delà des chansons que je connaissais déjà (You can call me Al et The boy in the bubble). J'ai une certaine affection pour le chanteur et ses homonymes, mais vaut-ce une place très haute dans mon classement personnel ?

J'avoue que je suis onomastiquement favorablement biaisé. Mais ça reste vraiment très bon, alors que de base la world music c'est pas ma came. Allez, hop, 5/5.

I really tried to like it, but just couldn't get into it at all. Sorry Paul, but seems like a world/folk music ain't my jam

1-2

I really really really dislike Simon & Garfunkel, but I don't mind Paul Simon solo at all. Strange.

Good, but unremarkable

Really unique songs. Reminds me a bit of David Byrnes’ solo work.

3.5! Lots of classics.

The bass really shines on this album. Love it! The catchy songs make this a classic for me.

9/10

3.5/5 stars

Absolutely classic album with a strong vision for itself.

Totally not my music. (But bonus point for "You Can Call Me Al".

This album crossed about 75 genres; definitely made for a unique listen but to be honest I really have no idea what I’m listening to

Surprised at how much I liked this. Love African type guitar and drums anyway and some outrageous jazzy bass playing. I'd actually like the instrumental version. Lyrics and singing probably not my kind of thing - but still liked it. The synths are a bit too naff 80s at times - think with real instruments it would have aged better

Loved it. Fretless bass.

Some really good songs on here.

Summer sounding music. Happy.

A lot of fun here....embarrassed I didn't know him sooner!

Honestly was a little irated with by this album. I have no nostalgia for this and there was far too many high-pitched chimes, keys and horns. Then you get the story telling that didn't hold my interest at all. Also what is with the African and islander cultural appropriation? Standouts: The Boy In the Bubble, You Can Call Me Al, Crazy Love, Vol. II #5 of working through the 1001 Albums list

A classic.

An upbeat good album, can't see myself listening to it again but I did save a few songs for 80's playlists.

It was ok, not remarkable for me…. Graceland was my fav though

All around the world or the myth of fingerprints is SUCH a great closing track!

I know a bunch of the subs from this album, and I think I heard it a lot from my sister at the time. Of course I enjoyed Call Me Al and Graceland, but I have always had some negative feelings about Paul Simon plus the was so much Laby Black Mumbaso going on at the time, so couldn't appreciate this. Listening now, I can certainly appreciate the musicality. It's a pretty good album!

loved the instrumentals but can't get over the e-40 cadence

Not my type of vibe. Reminds me of Toto, whoever came first I’m not sure. Might have revealed my young age with that statement.

3.5/5. Good, average. This is a bit different from other stuff I have heard from this time.

No es mi album favorito, en especial porque no soy fan del genero folk, pero puedo apreciar los sonidos y ritmos exóticos. Aparte, es algo definitivamente diferente así que como mínimo eso me mantiene expectativo de las canciones. me gustan los ritmos bailables, hacen la escucha más amena

One of my favorite albums ever. The way he’s able to weave poetry and song together is unmatched.

I did not like it despite the fact that the album was: *Winner of the Grammy for Best Album. * Voted the best album of the year in The Village Voice Pazz & Jop critics poll. * In 1998, Q magazine readers voted it the 56th greatest album of all time. * It was also ranked #84 in a 2005 survey held by British television's Channel 4 to determine the 100 greatest albums of all time. * In 1989, it was rated #5 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 100 Greatest Albums of the '80s. * It is #81 on the list of Rolling Stone magazine's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. * The song "Graceland" was voted #485 in the list of Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. * According to AcclaimedMusic.net, a site which combines hundreds of best-of lists from critics and musicians from around the world, Graceland is ranked at #66 on the greatest albums of all time. It is also ranked #13 for albums released in the 1980s, and it is the second-highest ranking album of 1986, behind The Smiths' The Queen Is Dead). * In 2002, Pitchfork Media named it the 85th best album of the 1980s. * In 2006, Time named it one of the All-Time 100 Greatest Albums.

A pleasant change of pace compared to what's been suggested in the past couple of weeks. While I never got into Paul Simon's solo career (I love Simon & Garfunkel), this was a joy to listen to.

I've always enjoyed this album. Happy to hear it again.

Its alright, but aside from a couple tracks this is really not all that exciting

Always great, the titular song hit like crack this time

Listened to this a lot in the car growing up so I do have a bit of a nostalgia bias here, but nevertheless I still think this is one of the best albums of the 80s I feel like the influence from African music and the glorious productions has helped this album to age very well too Favourite tracks: The Boy In the Bubble, Graceland, Diamonds, You Can Call Me Al, Under African Skies, Homeless, That Was Your Mother

Je m’attendais pas à grand chose parvenant de Simon sans Garfunkel (y’a vraiment une drôle de tête), mais j’ai été vraiment surpris par la diversité musicale et l’influence de la musique africaine apporte beaucoup de fraîcheur à cet album pop EDIT DU FUTUR: J’AI TROUVÉ LE CD DANS UNE BIN À 1$, ÇA M’A PERMIS DE L’ÉCOUTER UNE COUPLE DE FOIS SUPPLÉMENTAIRE, C’EST VRAIMENT BON, EUH YEP, C’EST TOUT

I actually preferred the other Paul Simon record on this list, I found this one a bit weird (although I know it’s more well-known).

I don't know why I wasn't particularly excited when this came up. It is magnificent from start to finish.

I don't need to listen to this again to tell you that it's great. Sure, there's a lot to unpack, with Simon's breaking of Apartheid travel bans, and whether his work is culturally appreciative or culturally appropriative, but the long and short of it is that the music is just fabulous. "You can call me Al" is probably one of my all-time favourite songs, though I have to say that when listening to this album again, I found "Graceland" to be way better than I remembered it being. The lyrics hit me this time in a way I don't think I'd picked up on before. Great stuff.

I’m not sure I understand the other reviewers upset over cultural misappropriation. Just enjoy the music without overanalysis. This album is perfection.

Not my cup of tea, nothing I specifically took issue with it just really isn’t a style I enjoy.

Brani Preferiti: - "You Can Call Me Al" - "The Boy In the Bubble" Note: C'è poco da dire, un'ottimo album con diversi momenti interessanti .

Graceland and call me al, mom listened to these (86). Pretty easy listening, chill low key vibe. All the songs sound kinda similar

There’s a few songs I loved on this album. Boy in the Bubble, Graceland and You Can Call Me Al

I'm getting this thought that Paul Simon actually is the best song writer. Ever. I may be wrong, but something is going on.

Great album - Paul Simon flexing his solo muscles. Few classics in there that are timeless. 5 stars

Pierde un punto por las flasheadas étnicas.

I appreciate that this album was out there but eh not my thing

Enjoyed

Спокойная музыка. Я б не сказал, что зацепила меня, но вполне неплохо. Перекликается по звучанию с "Happy Sad".

Classic

Stone cold classic

I loved it back in the 80s but for me it hasn't improved with time. I never listen to it now, although I still believe the songs are perfect. Strange.

Really tasteful and wholesome album. Loved the island vibe, great concept

Not really my style, it’s all very much the same. Still I did save two songs into my playlist.

Leuk album met "Afrikaanse" muziek door een Amerikaan. Het zou in deze "woke" tijd niet meer overleven helaas. Mooie muziek maar niet echt catchy. De bass is geweldig, vooral in "You Can Call Me Al". Tijdens een autorit zeker het luisteren nog waard.

An absolute masterpiece. I love the warmth of this album. Beautiful songwriting and virtuoso execution

Oh my - this was wholly unexpected - a stunner of an album - with South African music - which at first inducting start to ring ‘cultural appropriation’ alarm bells, being at centre stage for most of the album, but after a bit of reflection they feel more like a collaboration with actual stars of the genre. Even more interesting is the story of the record and the divisiveness that ensued as Simon as perceived to be breaking the apartheid boycott… but as someone cleverer than me said - this record was not propping the apartheid regime - but rather giving jobs to black South African musicians. At least I hold that view - I might be wrong. Anyway this record is fantastic objectively.

Really a great album. I had a good time listening to it. My favorite songs after a first listen are Graceland, Diamonds on the soles of her shoes and All around the world

lots of things i don't ordinary like, but the writing and songcraft is superb

Great and Underrated album

Probably some of Paul Simon's best on here

Please don't call me Al. It's just as cringy and unnoteworthy as the rest of this album.

What does a newly divorced man who simultaneously has a fallout with his best friend do to cure his sadness? Go to Africa of course! Is this album culturally significant? Yes absolutely 100% no doubt about it. However in terms of pure content, this felt lackluster. I enjoyed portions but never felt impressed by the album as a whole. Truly felt bang average.

C The Boy In the Bubble 3 Graceland 2 I Know What I Know 3 Gumboots 2 Diamonds On the Soles of Her Shoes 3 You Can Call Me Al 3 Under African Skies 2 Homeless 3 Crazy Love, Vol. II 2 That Was Your Mother 2 All Around the World or the Myth of Fingerprints 3 Paul Simon, I never liked your f***in voice you twat. My middle school music teacher was obsessed with you and forced us to sing Diamonds On the Soles of Her Shoes and You Can Call Me Al at our concerts. I despised both songs, but I despised pretty much every song we had to sing in chorus. It took me a decade to begin liking Come Together thanks to you, MR. STACK. MR. COLIN STACK.

I like this record. It's got a really great feel to it. Good songwriting too.

Wholesome time

Fun for the whole family

God musik med fede rytmer

Ik herkend een paar nummers maar niet het gevoel alsof ze speciaal zijn

Excellent eclectic international sound. A landmark album

Lowkey and relaxing. Draws on African influences in ways that are generally interesting instead of distracting or distasteful. A strong listen. Best song: Graceland

It’s Graceland. It’s brilliant. I love it. Nice to see this on here and looking forward to listening again.

little boogie :) wahooo

Paul Simon uses a flawless ensemble of African musicians to geographically transport you to the scenery he recorded the album in. This thing is so damn memorable that it has to be the best thing he ever made.

Cat: instant 5 stars AJ: an album of miracle and wonder.

Good album! Almost forty years after this album's release, I left wondering if the artist could have credited or highlighted the African musicians that were involved in the creation of this album, but I am lacking a lot of the backstory.

Paul is a treasure, as is this album.

Huge african inspiration, this album is a blast to listen it through!

Guete Sound. Aber nonig 5 Stern.

That bass guitar is really amazing. The songs are alright, but some should have been a little shorter. It was definitely different from what was popular at the time. Last 2 songs feel a little out of place. It's not one of my own favorite albums, but no doubt at all it belongs on the list. The youtube playlist is very uneven mastering wise. Favorite song: Under African Skies

Verrassend divers. Leuke Afrikaanse invloeden, energiek. Vele leuke nummers naast You Can Call Me Al.

Paul Simon at his best.

The politics behind this album have not aged well. Call Me Al was ubiquitous and I never need to hear it again. But there's sturdy songwriting as you would expect. A simple three stars.

I did not like it.

Niet goed / niet slecht. Ik werd er niet lastig van. Soms zelfs leuk.

Great album! Very fun. Mostly bouncy good time songs.

Nice mix of different kind of music styles. But not for my ears.

I bought this album several years ago, when I first heard about the 1001 albums list. I'd heard "You Can Call Me Al" quite a bit when I was a kid, but I'd had no idea how great Graceland was supposed to be. I remember immediately falling in love with this album from the first moment that I listened to it. I've loved eighties pop music for all of my life, but Graceland is an incredibly unique addition to eighties pop, but still manages to contain the types of sounds that I love. Graceland is one of those rare albums that I can listen to without wanting to skip a single song. Even though I love the whole album, my favorite tracks are the ones that have more of a zydeco influence, with "The Boy In the Bubble" and "All Around the World" being my favorite tracks aside from "You Can Call Me Al." Overall, this is an outstanding album, and one of my favorites of all time. Personally, I think a lot of the scrutiny surrounding this album is unwarranted. While the criticisms of violating the apartheid boycott seem to have faded somewhat, the accusations of cultural appropriation seem to have grown over the years. Personally, I think that Paul Simon had the best intentions when he recorded this album. Yes, the road to hell is paved with good intentions, but this isn't Ryan Adams or Phil Spector that we're talking about here. It's impossible to say whether this album was a net negative or positive for apartheid, but it is possible to appreciate this album for being an incredibly beautiful piece of music that gave a lot of people the opportunity to be exposed to African-influenced music and African musicians, and I think that's a universal net positive.

I appreciate that this is a classic, but outside of a couple of songs, it's just not to my taste