Simon and Garfunkel
The Rise of a Duo
Simon and Garfunkel, signed to Columbia in 1964 by producer Tom Wilson, quickly became one of the label’s defining acts. Their blend of melodic sophistication, evocative harmonies, and literate lyrics resonated deeply with listeners during the tumultuous Sixties. Their music offered both comfort and insight, acting as a soundtrack to a generation navigating cultural upheaval. While fans adored their work, critics often undervalued them, focusing more on artists with perceived edge or underdog status. However, Paul Simon’s songwriting stood on par with icons like Bob Dylan and Lennon/McCartney, while Art Garfunkel’s transcendent vocals elevated the duo’s artistry.
The Graduate and Chart Domination
A pivotal moment in Simon and Garfunkel’s career came in 1967 when director Mike Nichols approached Paul Simon to write music for The Graduate. While Simon contributed snippets of new material, including the iconic “Mrs. Robinson,” much of the soundtrack featured earlier songs like “The Sound of Silence” and “Scarborough Fair.” Nichols’ decision frustrated Simon, who believed there wasn’t enough material for a full album.
Clive Davis, however, saw potential in combining Simon and Garfunkel’s contributions with Dave Grusin’s instrumental score. Despite resistance from the duo, Davis convinced them to release the soundtrack. The Graduate’s success propelled the album to number one, eventually selling over 2 million copies. In 1968, Simon and Garfunkel released Bookends, featuring the full version of “Mrs. Robinson,” further cementing their superstardom. Both the single and the album dominated the charts, with Bookends selling over 2 million copies and winning acclaim for its poignant exploration of life’s stages.
Strains Beneath Success
Despite commercial triumphs, tensions between the duo and Columbia persisted. Simon and Garfunkel resented the release of The Graduate soundtrack, believing it distracted from Bookends and reflected a focus on business over artistry. Further discord arose when Davis experimented with variable pricing, charging a dollar more for Bookends, a move that the duo saw as an overly commercial decision.
Davis worked to mend relations, developing a friendship with Simon and encouraging him through creative frustrations. Art Garfunkel’s involvement in Mike Nichols’s Catch-22 filming in Mexico delayed work on their next album, Bridge over Troubled Water, further straining their partnership. Simon’s feelings about the delays were poignantly captured in the song “The Only Living Boy in New York.”
A Bridge and a Break
When Bridge over Troubled Water was completed in 1970, it was met with unanimous acclaim. Davis championed its title track as the lead single, a bold move given its ballad format during the rock era. The gamble paid off. The song and album became cultural milestones, with “Bridge over Troubled Water” winning Song of the Year and Record of the Year at the Grammys, and the album earning Album of the Year. Selling over 8 million copies in the U.S. alone, the album marked the duo’s pinnacle of success—and their swan song.
Shortly after its release, Simon informed Davis of his decision to split with Garfunkel, ending their collaboration. Simon sought creative control and independence, while Garfunkel pursued acting, feeling overshadowed by Simon’s songwriting prowess. The split shocked Davis, who believed they had a rare institutional magic greater than their individual parts. Despite their separation, Simon and Garfunkel occasionally reunited for tours, though new collaborative material never followed.
Paul Simon’s Solo Success
Paul Simon embarked on a successful solo career, releasing critically acclaimed albums like There Goes Rhymin’ Simon and Graceland. While Simon achieved remarkable success on his own, including groundbreaking works, the legacy of Simon and Garfunkel remained unparalleled. Their Greatest Hits album has sold over 14 million copies, underscoring the enduring magic of their partnership.
Key Facts
Origins: Simon and Garfunkel were signed to Columbia Records in 1964 and became one of the label’s most successful acts.
The Graduate Soundtrack: Released in 1968, it combined Simon and Garfunkel songs with Dave Grusin’s instrumental score. It hit number one on the charts and sold over 2 million copies.
Bookends: The album followed The Graduate soundtrack and included the full version of “Mrs. Robinson.” It also topped the charts and sold over 2 million copies.
Artistic and Commercial Tensions: Disputes arose over the release of The Graduate soundtrack and Columbia’s pricing of Bookends.
Bridge over Troubled Water: The title track, released as a single in 1970, won Song of the Year and Record of the Year at the Grammys. The album sold over 8 million copies in the U.S.
The Breakup: Simon and Garfunkel split in 1970, with Simon seeking creative independence and Garfunkel exploring acting.
Solo Careers: Paul Simon achieved significant solo success, including with Graceland, though Simon and Garfunkel’s collective works continued to outsell his solo efforts.
Occasional Reunions: The duo occasionally reunited for tours but never recorded new material together after their breakup.
Cultural Legacy: Simon and Garfunkel’s work, including Greatest Hits, has sold over 14 million copies, highlighting their lasting influence and widespread appeal.
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