John Legend is cast to portray Harry Belafonte in an upcoming film about Paul Simon’s “Graceland” era, according to reports. The project is being directed by Bill Condon, known for other major film work. Sources describe that Belafonte served as an advisor to Simon, who drew on South African music when shaping “Graceland.” The story centers on Simon’s engagement with apartheid-era South Africa, including his exposure to township music and his decision to revisit or partially re-record the material in South Africa with the assistance of South African musicians. The reports also note that Simon’s approach is presented against a backdrop of racial politics and anti-apartheid activism. Some anti-apartheid leaders did not feel consulted by Simon before his trip, and they reportedly backed a boycott in response. The film is framed as a dramatization of that period, tying together artistic influences, the role of Belafonte, and the broader controversy surrounding cultural exchange during apartheid.
John Legend to Portray Harry Belafonte in Paul Simon ‘Graceland’ Biopic
John Legend is cast to portray Harry Belafonte in an upcoming film about Paul Simon’s “Graceland” era, according to reports. The project is being directed by Bill Condon, known for other major film wo...
- John Legend is set to play Harry Belafonte in a new Paul Simon ‘Graceland’ biopic.
- The film is directed by Bill Condon.
- Belafonte served as an advisor to Paul Simon.
- Reports describe Simon’s inspiration from township music in apartheid-era South Africa.
- Some anti-apartheid leaders reportedly objected to Simon’s approach and backed a boycott over lack of consultation.
When was the last time that you listened to Paul Simon's Graceland? I revisited it pretty recently, and god, what an album. Just an incredible collection of songs. Graceland was a critical and commercial smash when it came out in 1986. But at the time of its release, the record also existed within a thorny landscape of racial politics. Simon was inspired by the township music of apartheid-era South Africa, and re recorded it partially in South Africa, with the help of a number of South African musicians. Before making his trip, though, Simon did not consult with the leaders of the anti-apartheid movement, some of whom led a boycott of Simon in response. That's the story of an upcoming movie from the Oscar-winning Chicago and Dreamgirls director Bill Condon. The post John Legend Cast As Harry Belafonte In New Movie About Paul Simon’s <em>Graceland</em> Era appeared first on Stereogum.
3 hours agoBelafonte served as advisor to Simon, who toured with South African musicians during Apartheid
5 hours ago
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