Why Paul Simon’s “Graceland” Made Music History

Music historian Ashley Kahn and bassist Bakithi Kumalo join Jack on the Track Star Podcast to explore the music, people, and stories behind Paul Simon’s Graceland. Drawing on Kahn’s new book, Days of Miracle and Wonder: Paul Simon and the Trials and Triumphs of Graceland, the conversation traces the album’s South African roots and the collaborations that helped shape its unmistakable sound.

Bakithi shares his perspective from inside the studio and on the road, recalling his first meeting with Simon, his experience on the Graceland tour, and what it meant to perform alongside South African legends. Together, Ashley and Bakithi bring the album’s history to life through personal memories and the music that connects it all, from the sounds that inspired Graceland to the influence it continues to have today.

This Episode's Track List:

00:00 - Intro
00:13 - Gumboots (with Boyoyo Boys) - Paul Simon
26:33 - The Boy In The Bubble - Paul Simon
37:53 - Graceland - Paul Simon
43:48 - You Can Call Me Al - Paul Simon
51:23 - Pata Pata - Miriam Makeba
57:24 - Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes - Paul Simon

Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1d5i6AQX4dZaO4MDCbdhjR

New episodes of The Track Star Podcast drop every week. Let us know what artist, theme, or unexpected guest you want us to explore next.

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