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Paul Simon and John Mellencamp Perform The Boxer Live at Hard Rock

Date: September 13, 1988

In 1988, when this live recording of "The Boxer" was captured, Paul Simon was in a vibrant phase of his solo career. Just a few years prior, he released the album "Graceland" in 1986, a landmark work that blended various musical styles and brought African music to the forefront of popular American consciousness. By the time of this performance, Simon was not only celebrating the immense success of that album but also collaborating with fellow artists like John Mellencamp, showcasing his ability to connect and resonate with diverse audiences. Interestingly, the iconic track "The Boxer" originally appeared on Simon & Garfunkel's 1969 album "Bridge Over Troubled Water," highlighting Simon's deep roots in the folk-rock tradition. This performance underscored not just his enduring popularity, but also his continued evolution as an artist who thrived on collaboration and musical experimentation.

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