Graceland

The title track from Paul Simon's legendary 1986 album. This was a tricky song to arrange because there is so much happening rhythmically -- how do you get the 80's drum sound from an electric guitar??

Played on a Mexican Telecaster through a Fender Acoustasonic Jr. amp. Foot tap amplified by a Logarhythm stomp block. Vocals recorded through an Audio Technica AT2050 condenser mic, everything else DI, through a PreSonus interface.

Filmed on a Canon Rebel T3i and edited in Pro Tools and Sony Vegas.

[einfussganger]

OK, so every cover out there plays a very simplified version of Graceland. Paul has three guitars (plus bass) when he plays it live. The chord changes are fast and awkward. And here sits ambitious young Josh on his couch going to try it solo - and he pulls off the most authentic cover out there. This is just jaw dropping. If I didn't like Josh so much, I'd hate him.

[mycabbages_]

10 Years later and this is still CRAZY good

[vtster]

This is what happens when ego is removed from performance and the artist presents music in its purest form with no unnecessary distractions. The result is simply delicious. Thanks Josh, keep it up.

[bobhess]

How is he not famous? I'm an honest guy and I listen to a lot of music on YouTube and this kids got it.

[cokeandtwirl]

Every now and then a performer emerges who is touched with genius. We’ve been fortunate to see the development of one such performer because of YouTube.

[mediocrefunkybeat]

What I love about this is the honesty.  Josh is obviously a superb player, singer and arranger but these are single-take, warts-and-all productions.  Josh keeps the little flubs in that others would spend ages editing out through re-takes, covered by multiple cameras.  Josh, I really appreciate what you're doing and I respect your integrity above pretty much everything else.

[danielfinn]

I have come back to this video many times. It's currently at 1.9 million views. I'd like to see it at 7 billion.

"I say 'oh, this is what she means: she means we're bouncin' into Graceland.'
"and I say loo'oosin' love is like a window in your heart.
Everybody sees you blown apart."

But the lyrics don't matter as much as Josh's guitar. Impossible yet flawless.

I've watched this video before. I watched it today. I expect that I'll watch it again after today.
#thankful

[robertfarmer]

I was living and working in Liberia in 1986. This Album was ALL OVER - Paul Simon resonated with everyone. People could get the lyrics - I had an older Liberian boss who loved country music - he loved this song. We would sit around with cigars and sing this SO LOUD. And once again - Josh nails it! ALot going on here and he NEVER seems ruffled. At that sweet voice.

[williamwinsor]

I’m a 69 year old curmudgeon. I shed some nostalgia tears viewing this. Subscribed.

[metrobytmobile]

I've been watching this young guys'covers for a couple years now and I've come to the conclusion that not many people can nail these covers like he does. Damn good musician and vocalist too.

[davecoops]

This is probably the best cover I've ever seen

[WallyPeterson]

50 years old, a connoisseur of music of every stripe for at least 35 years, and I think you're my new favorite artist.

[darthdadt]

Hey paul! It me your cousin, Marvin, Marvin Simon! Remember that new sound you’re looking for...

[marks]

Uncanny how difficult singing the verses over the second guitar part is..nice brainsplitting

[StephenMendel]

I'm so blown away by your cover/take on Graceland, the way you've managed to really get the whole feel of the tune, that was originally recorded with steel guitar, electric guitar, drums and a myriad of other instruments, with a single tele and vocals is astounding. Really fine playing and spot on vocals. Kudos.

[rickbullock]

I watched this video the first time a few years back and was impressed. Here I am again still following this young talented man and enjoy his music and his many collaborations with other singers and musicians and he’s improving with age. A wonderful talented man. Enjoy watching and listening.👍👍🇨🇦

[happymv]

Pure talent minus the ego and flash. ARTIST! Respect.

[ulrichschnier]

I always thought that Josh sounds like a younger version of Paul Simon ... but in this "Graceland"-Version the resemblance is simply STUNNING ...

[antoniocoutinho]

You know what touches me the most on listening to your music, besides your evident proficiency as a musician? it is your true humbleness and simplicity. May the Force grow in you!

[belascialoja]

The likeness to Paul Simon's vocal is uncanny. You have a very good ear, Mr. Turner!