

Joe Boyd on the Birth of Rock, World Music, and Being There for Everything
40 snips Jan 22, 2025
Joe Boyd, a renowned music producer behind iconic acts like Pink Floyd and Fairport Convention, shares his fascinating journey through the music world. He discusses the political significance of Zulu music during apartheid and its interplay with global artists like Paul Simon. Boyd recounts his unique experiences, including the transformation of folk sounds at the Newport festival and his work with cinematic legends like Stanley Kubrick. He also reveals insights on mastering the intricate Kinshasa guitar sound and how he preserves his extensive music collection.
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Zulu Music Controversy
- Paul Simon's use of Zulu music in Graceland was controversial in South Africa.
- Many South Africans viewed the music as reactionary and supporting the Zulus, who opposed the ANC.
World Music's Rise
- Urbanization modernizes music across cultures, evidenced by genres like blues and jazz.
- The world music movement filled a void for Western audiences seeking diverse musical experiences.
Finding New Music
- Joe Boyd continues to discover surprising music through Dust to Digital's archival recordings.
- Their Instagram feed exposes him to diverse global music traditions, constantly offering new sounds.