Amidst apartheid and racial tensions, “Graceland“ stands as a testament to the vibrant talent of South African musicians and Paul Simon’s unique vision in bringing a myriad of cultural elements together into one, cohesive musical statement. One of my favourite tracks from the album, “Under African Skies“ captures the indomitable joy of South African music even against the grim backdrop of apartheid-era oppression.
Background
In 1985, following a low period in his life, Paul Simon travelled to South Africa with the aim of recording an album with South African musicians whose township jive music, mbaqanga, had inspired him through a bootleg tape. Doing so meant breaking the cultural boycott the United Nations had imposed on South Africa for its apartheid policies, an act he would be heavily criticised for.
“Under African Skies“ was recorded shortly after his trip, featuring South African musicians that were flown to New York to record. Among them were Ray Phiri, the legendary founder of the afro-fusion band, Stimela; Bakithi Kumalo, whose tight fretless bass grooves can be heard throughout the album (most notably in “You Can Call Me Al“), and Isaac Mtshali, the drummer for Stimela.
The song is partly a tribute to Linda Ronstadt (the child from “Tucson, Arizona“ mentioned in the second verse and the provider of the angelic extra set of vocals) and Joseph Shabalala, the late, great leader of Ladysmith Black Mambazo (the “Joseph” mentioned in the lyrics).
What it means to me
To me, this song embodies the threads of music woven through our childhood and the connection it creates between people and with our homes.
As a native of South Africa, it has a familiar and comforting sound and instantly makes me long for the expansive landscapes and cultures of my home. It’s place in the piece of musical protest and beauty that is the album “Graceland“ plants it as a firm favourite of mine.
What to listen for
The repeated chord structure is infectiously simple and is borrowed from marabi, a type of South African keyboard music popular at the time which often used repetitive harmonic patterns that were easy to dance to.
Suggested listening activity
If you’re already in Africa, well done! You’re already under said “African Skies” and can enjoy this song wherever you are. If you’re not… then I hope you have some disposable income.