Paul Simon to Celebrate 25th Anniversary of ‘Graceland’ with Collector’s Box Set
Thursday, 19 January 2012
Written by Rob Sleigh
Paul Simon’s classic seventh album ‘Graceland’ is to celebrate its 25th anniversary with the release of a new Deluxe Edition collector’s box set and a special two-disc set, which are due for release in May. Both releases will include the new documentary film ‘Under African Skies’, which chronicles the creation of the Grammy Award-winning album.
‘Under African Skies’ is directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Joe Berlinger, who also made the 2004 Metallica documentary ‘Some Kind of Monster’. The film follows Paul Simon on a visit to South Africa, 25 years after recording his most lauded album, taking a look at how it was made and the controversy that it caused. At the time, Simon’s decision to record ‘Graceland’ in South Africa prompted some to accuse him of breaking the UN’s cultural boycott against the apartheid regime. However, the UN Anti-Apartheid Committee did not share this view as the album showcased the talents of black South African musicians while offering no support to the South African government.
‘Under African Skies’ will make its debut at this weekend’s Sundance Film Festival in the US. The film features interviews with several anti-apartheid activists of the time as well as artists such as Quincy Jones, Paul McCartney, David Byrne and Peter Gabriel.
‘Graceland’ is Paul Simon’s best-selling solo album to date having been certified 5x Platinum in both the UK and the US. Upon its original release, it topped the UK Albums Chart and reached Number Three in the US Billboard 200. ‘Graceland’ included the hit single ‘You Can Call Me Al’ and received two Grammy Awards. The album featured a collaboration with South African vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo, introducing them to worldwide audiences of their own.
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
We don't run any advertising! Our editorial content is solely funded by lovely people like yourself using Stereoboard's listings when buying tickets for live events. To keep supporting us, next time you're looking for concert, festival, sport or theatre tickets, please search for "Stereoboard". It costs you nothing, you may find a better price than the usual outlets, and save yourself from waiting in an endless queue on Friday mornings as we list ALL available sellers!
