“Under African Skies” is one of the most reflective and emotionally resonant tracks on Paul Simon’s landmark album Graceland. A highlight in a record celebrated for its fusion of Western songwriting and South African musical traditions, this song stands out for its spiritual tone and storytelling warmth, carried by Simon’s poetic lyricism and a transcendent guest vocal by Linda Ronstadt.
Lyrically, “Under African Skies” is a meditation on origins - of a person, a voice, a culture. Simon's verses are tender and introspective, rooted in a kind of awe for the land and the people he is honoring. The lyrics walk a fine line between the personal and the mythic, giving the song a timeless quality.
The instrumentation is gorgeously restrained. Softly layered guitars, a supple bassline, and delicate percussion create a luminous backdrop that evokes the vastness and stillness of the African landscape. It’s not showy, but it’s deeply felt - there’s a quiet reverence in every note. The gentle melody flows with a lullaby-like quality, giving the track a soothing, almost hymn-like cadence.
“Under African Skies” is a song of gratitude, memory, and cultural homage. In a project that navigates complex terrain - musically and politically - it is one of Graceland’s most sincere and spiritually resonant moments. Through elegant songwriting and a beautifully balanced duet, Paul Simon and Linda Ronstadt offer a subtle, powerful reminder of music’s ability to bridge worlds.
Lyrically, “Under African Skies” is a meditation on origins - of a person, a voice, a culture. Simon's verses are tender and introspective, rooted in a kind of awe for the land and the people he is honoring. The lyrics walk a fine line between the personal and the mythic, giving the song a timeless quality.
The instrumentation is gorgeously restrained. Softly layered guitars, a supple bassline, and delicate percussion create a luminous backdrop that evokes the vastness and stillness of the African landscape. It’s not showy, but it’s deeply felt - there’s a quiet reverence in every note. The gentle melody flows with a lullaby-like quality, giving the track a soothing, almost hymn-like cadence.
“Under African Skies” is a song of gratitude, memory, and cultural homage. In a project that navigates complex terrain - musically and politically - it is one of Graceland’s most sincere and spiritually resonant moments. Through elegant songwriting and a beautifully balanced duet, Paul Simon and Linda Ronstadt offer a subtle, powerful reminder of music’s ability to bridge worlds.