Legend FORCED Partner to Do HIS Song-Was LIVID WHEN it Was #1 Hit of Their Career!-Professor of Rock
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- čas přidán 1. 10. 2023
- They’re one of the greatest Duos ever. A rare and unique pairing that comes along maybe once a generation. Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel…AKA Simon and Garfunkel… Over the span of half a decade, they became so popular that at one point their records owned the top 3 spots on the US Albums chart. Sadly, however, this partnership didn’t last. Fraught with jealousy and bitterness, their relationship came to a passive-aggressive climax with the final song they recorded for their final album. Bridge Over Troubled Water became a #1 hit and a wedge between them. After the song’s writer Paul Simon gave it to Art to sing, he soon came to regret it. It was blowing up and legions of fans were cheering for his partner. Infuriated, Simon wished he had kept it for himself. Soon after, the two were irreconcilable. Find out how this song put the final nail in the coffin of this iconic partnership… NEXT on the Professor of Rock.
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So it’s time for another edition of our series The New Standards. This show takes an in-depth look into songs that transcend genre, decade, and fads - songs that are monumental touchstones in our culture and society. On previous episodes, we have covered Hey Jude by The Beatles, Cats In the Cradle by Harry Chapin, and Sundown by Gordon Lightfoot. Today we are paying our respects to the Simon & Garfunkel great: Bridge Over Troubled Water.
Between 1964 and 1968 the legendary duo of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel were absolutely on fire. During this span they created an enviable resume… releasing four platinum-slash-multi-platinum albums, while also receiving top billing on the ‘68 double-platinum soundtrack The Graduate. Additionally, they scored 9 Top 25 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 and assembled a veritable catalog of classic tracks. Also included were two timeless #1 hits: The Sound of Silence and Mrs. Robinson. Remarkably, at one point Simon and Garfunkel even owned the top three spots on the US albums chart… with ‘Bookends’ at #1, ‘The Graduate Soundtrack’ at #2, and ‘Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme’ at #3. Just incredible.
However, despite Paul and Art’s enormous success, their relationship was on the rocks as they began work on their fifth studio album. Personal tensions and turmoil were nothing new for the pair, whose long-lasting friendship dated back to the sixth grade. But with the creation of Bridge Over Troubled Water, it was about to get a whole lot worse. Surprisingly, the strain between the two musicians was exacerbated by a seeming stroke of good fortune. Riding high on the success of 1968’s The Graduate, Simon and Garfunkel reunited with director Mike Nichols for his next project, a film adaptation of Catch-22. Only this time, instead of contributing to the soundtrack, the pair - Zábava
Poll: What is your pick for the greatest song by a duo or singing group of the rock era?
Sara Smile -- Hall and Oates
"Rainy Days and Mondays" by The Carpenters
"California Dreaming" by The Mamas and the Papas.
(I would have said "Good Vibrations" by The Beach Boys, but they were actually a bona fide band, not a singing group.)
I'll nominate the Eagles live rendition of "Seven Bridges Road" with their five-part harmonies.
I have a headache and don't even know where to start. I'll defer to my POR fam today. Do me proud.
I was at a Paul Simon concert decades ago and someone from the crowd shouted for Paul to sing this song. Paul paused and said, ‘I can’t sing that song, It’s Art’s song’
😢
I saw him at Wembley and he sang a reggae version of it :)
I can't imagine the song sounding as good with Paul singing it. It sounds tailor made for Art's voice, and he sounded amazing! The chill factor is part of what made it so huge.
IT's tailored for Art no question.
...wanna talk 'huge'!??? ....listen to the 11+ minute 1979 Linda Clifford DISCO version! ....Oh, how I LOVED to shock People in my DJ set w/ THAT One, back in the day! ....ha-HAA!!
Art's voice is so pure. I love Paul's voice too, but even he knew that the song was meant for Art.
So sad that their friendship since childhood ended, but it's not uncommon for such talented musicians to let egos and personal differences lead to parting ways.
I remember a short film about Bobby Kennedy using Bridge Over Troubled Water as the background music. The line “Sail on silver girl” was timed with the scene of train his body was carried on. It was heartbreaking to watch and the music was perfect.
@@ProfessorofRock I agree completely. Please, Adam, go and take a look at an important comment I posted on your video on Europe's "The Final Countdown". I am 100% sure you will enjoy it.
Their "Concert in the Park" reunion was one of the greatest vocal performances I have ever heard in my 82 years on this planet! They were and always will be among the most accomplished vocal groups ever to set foot on a stage. "Simon and Garfunkel"...'nuff said!
Yes. I was in the middle of that sea of people. A surprise with the sound clarity. Art gave one of the great solo vocals of all time.
Both of you are legends for rocking all these years ❤
i watched it in Melbourne Australia, lying on the floor of the lounge room (i was no 10 of 14 kids) Dad had the sound wired into the stereo and blasting from 8 speakers 4 front & 4 rear. with pseudo stereo and phase shifted audio to simulate surround sound.
RIP dad i will always remember that magical night.
I wonder what didit takes to overcome their differences to agree to this concert. Was it money ? Nostalgia ?
I saw the video of BOTW. Garfunkel NAILED it... and he knew it. Watch the video at the end. He knew it!!!
I was at the concert with about15 to 20 of my friends. The Great Lawn in Central Park was full and people in trees surrounding the stage. The crowd was diverse in age with Grandparents, their kids and grandkids. Everyone was singing along with every song. People were polite and friendly. When the concert was over there was a calm and orderly movement to exit the park. We waitted for the crowd to leave, as we packed up our garbage in plastic bags we brought with us. That is when we noticed that the the park was clean and all garbage was in bags placed around the trash cans. As we left someone started to moo like a cow as we were funneled out the park entrance. Everyone started with the mounted police, first laughing then making noises like cowboys moving cattle. Everyone was having fun. On the walk to the train station in a crowd of a couple hundred people, we sang songs from the concert. It was an absolute perfect evening.
Art Garfunkel absolutely killed it singing that song. One of the great vocal performances in music history.
I don't think he killed it.. he did a good job
@@dans9463 So you don't know 'killed it' means a high order of greatness, or you think Art was just OK on the song?
@joeshmoe7967
I'm making a point to get back to original meanings of words.. like..
Someone smoking marijuana saying this is baad.
@@dans9463 by "making a point" do you mean sharpening a stick? I don't understand your confusing metaphor.
You're right.. I'll be sharper and stick to the point.
My girlfriend and I were in Central Park for that reunion concert... When the two of them took the stage, I swear that the roar from the crowd could have drowned out the sound of a planet exploding!
But the most amazing part of that concert was when Art began "When you're weary..." The silence from the crowd was absolute. You almost could have heard a pin drop on the Great Lawn of the Park when he sang that masterpiece.
Without a doubt, it was one of the greatest moments I had ever experienced. Simon and Garfunkel in Central Park has remained the best concert I've ever attended (I'm sixty now and have been to well over 200 shows). Yes, it really was that good.
Wow Mitch! Thanks for sharing that! Beautiful. What did they open with ?
@@ProfessorofRockthe entire concert is on CZcams and it's incredible. Actually kind of funny, during "the boxer" if I recall, Garfunkel came in a bit too early. He and Paul kind of chuckled and continued on flawlessly
This is a beautiful comment
I believe it was Mrs Robinson...@@ProfessorofRock
I wish I was there for that once in a lifetime moment!
As a depressed teenager, I listened to this song every night. It gave enough peace to sleep. Thank you Paul and Art ❣️❣️
I put that on the LP stack to fall sleep to too!
"Sail on silver girl. Sail on by. Your time has come to shine. All your dreams are on their way." One of the most uplifting songs for a teenage girl.
I got that album for my 15th birthday in 1970. I played it so much I must have worn it out.
It’s interesting how song lyrics vagueness allow for personal interpretations. Paul Simon wrote those lyrics about his aging wife who had recently noticed her first grey hair.
No one can deny the fact that Garfunkel's voice was shear perfection for the song! Paul Simon would never have made it such a milestone musical paradise it became! It was like an angel had taken over Art's vocal chords and let out a heaven aria none will ever match!
That is the perfect description.
Actually, it would never have been such a milestone without Paul's genius in writing it. They were such a fabulous and gifted team.
Had Paul sung it, it would NEVER have been #1. Art's voice on this is ANGELIC! He has the perfect, smooth sound that this song needed. Pity it's the song that broke the tenuous hold of friendship left between the two. The green-eyed monster is cruel.
The song did not break them up. It might have been Paul that broke them up with his jealousy.
@@gregorymoore2877 I guess that's true. Paul's jealousy of the success that Art's voice made the song sound is what broke them up. Skip a couple steps - the song broke them up.
I was 17 in 1983. They were coming to Milwaukee. I painted some portraits for teachers to go. I used my neighbors credit card I gave her the cash. Booked a bus ticket and a hotel room. By first big adventure all on my own. I was so excited. I still have my Simon & Garfunkel scrapbook. That was 40 years ago. Thanks for the video! Cheers.
Their differences broke up my favorite duo. But there's no denying that Paul's lyrical talents were genius, and Art's voice was pure.
I literally wore out that album out in ‘70, ‘71 while in high school. In 1971 my best friend, also who’s favorite song was “Bridge”, died in a car accident. At his service, the recording was played over the sound system of the cathedral. With the acoustics in the cavernous space, the sound of it was phenomenal. It took years to be able to hear it and not break down. Later on was alright. Even now when hearing it though, my memory still hears the harmonies and orchestration echo thru that sanctuary. It is a great remembrance of a great friend.
I have worked on sound systems in cathedrals an churches. And being able to try out classics like this in that environment was unreal.
Sorry about your friend, I also wore out two LP's of Bridge in the 70's on the old Stereo system of the time. Became a Simon fan ever since. Art pretty good too. 🙂
One of the best songs ever written and Garfunkel did it Justice. ❤
Yep... Very true.
Thanks to him, it’s a classic.
Graceland---Never gets old; can't listen without singing every word of it. It's enchanted and enchanting.
Simon & Garfunkel were such a HUGE part of growing up in the 1960’s, can’t imagine what our lives would be like without their musical influence.
That song wouldn't have been a blip on the radar if it wasn't for Art Garfunkel's iconic vocals.
That sing would't have been on the radar if Paul hadn't written it.
Many times when this song came on the radio, I've pulled over on the road to listen to it with full attention. I can't imagine anyone singing this better than Art Garfunkel.
I agree! thanks for sharing that!
Definitely a “stop and listen in wonder” song
My older sister sang in our high school madrigal group and performed throughout San Diego. One of the last times i heard her sing was when she sang Bridge over Troubled Water solo in huge church. It was soul stirring. Unfortunately she would die at age 30. 40 years later, my mother still cries and leaves the room when that song is played. The music of Simon and Garfunkel has always been the soundtrack of my life.
As fabulous as they were individually, they were even greater when combined - the greatest groups are like that. Such a shame that their greatest song, one of the best songs ever recorded, was also their last - what a way to bow out though ! Love their songs ❤
Don't forget that classic Saturday Night Live skit where Paul Simon meets fans on the street and remembers each one from the concerts they attended---but when Art Garfunkel walks up he doesn't recognize him! Funny stuff.
Tried looking for it. Couldn’t find it.
@@Luked0g440 It is in Season 12, Episode 5. You can stream it on Peacock. The skit is called "Ticket Line".
gabbyawards.blogspot.com/2018/07/saturday-night-live-season-12-reviews_24.html
Bridge Over Troubled Water is one of those songs that grabs you by the heart and doesn't let go until long after it's over.
It tugs at my heartstrings that’s for sure.
I totally agree with you!!
One of the reasons I loved this duo is that their voices mesh so well.
This album was a turning point in my life. I was at 17, so shy, I could hardly talk to anyone. Under pressure, I stuttered. Without going into the reasons, why I cycled 60 miles on a bicycle to meet my uncle, aunt, and cousin. My cousin, a girl of my own age, said she didn't have the album, so upon return, I posted it to her. That became a friendship, that partially brought me out of my shyness. I would probably not have married my wife without, what grew from that that point. I am still friends with my cousin and her husband many years later. It was never planned, but we both had a daughter with the same name, Helen.
It's sad that Paul lacked the humility to enjoy having created the song his friend was performing so well. Being able to write a song that's perfect for another is a special skill. Their fans would've known it had taken both of them to create such a masterwork. Paul went on to have the long career that Art did not, precisely because of his songwriting skills.
It's interesting the two things I read about Paul Simon are that he's a great songwriter (obviously) and that he's always been a dick.
I saw Garfunkel twice in concert after they split. I’m a singer and I loved his clear, angelic voice; I wouldn’t pay to see Simon, despite his songwriting ability.
I don’t think you can say that Art didn’t have as great a career after the split…it was just different he has been associated with many projects but not so much in the front. His voice is awesome, I love sound of silence also. He made a comment when he sang it he felt it was so personal to Paul and sometimes he felt intrusive. This is a true talent and not an ego. I feel like Paul has too much ego, small man syndrome maybe. He is very talented and I don’t understand this insecurity.
My father was a fraternity brother of Paul's at Queens College (NY). I have heard from several brothers Paul moved on from them quite quickly. Dad used to tell a story of a few members walking with Paul trying to calm him down when a professor failed him or wouldn't let him take a test later that conflicted with some Simon and Garfunkel business.
It's understandable, when your in a working band the dynamics can be very similar to a marriage. It's like they were getting a divorce by the point of the last album so there were a lot of hurt and petty feelings in the relationship.
The sad irony of this exquisite record is that both their instincts were 100% spot on and it would not have been the masterpiece it truly is without their partnership. Paul knew that Artie had to be the one to sing it and was right to insist he take the lead vocal, but Artie was equally right in knowing that the song needed that third verse and in pressing Paul to provide it. Without either contribution, the song would have been a lot less than it actually is.
I've heard a lot of versions of BOTW over the years, but few, if any, come close to being as mind-blowingly special as the original - even from some of the greatest artists of all time.
Yep, if you listen to the song it needed that last part where it gets up off the runway and soars. The stuff up to that point was very, very good, but that last part is what makes the whole trip worth it.
Thanks Professor! In 1981 I was ten years old. My very first exposure to S&G was the Concert in Central park. I think it was on HBO. My mother, a former hippie (who was transforming into a yuppie - tee Hee Hee) insisted that we would watch it together. Kicking and Screaming the whole way, she made me sit with her on floor in front of my grandma Abby's giant wooden monstrosity of a console TV. The show came on and after the first song, I was mesmerized. I had never heard or seen anything like them. Even at ten years old, I felt those songs strike a chord in my heart. To this day, every time I hear The Boxer I cry because it reminds me of my father, who was a consummate bar-room scrapper and tough guy with many regrets and hard times, like the guy in the song. (By the way, he was also The Greatest Father Who Ever Was!) Forty years later, I'm still into S&G. I guess, if I live another forty years, I will still be listening to them.
In 1994 I was working for Wal-mart and got invited to their year end meeting. This is or at least was an annual event where the share holders would vote but also where employees would attend seminars and what amounted to trade shows featuring new merchandise etc. Between these events were many attractions. This year the Eagles were were playing in one venue while Cool and the gang, and later, Simon and Garfunkel were performing on an outdoor stage. Playing after Cool and the gang their set ran later into the evening and some people, having had a very long day, began to leave. I overheard Simon lean over and whisper I think were loosing them. This broke my heart a little. I don't think more than a couple of other people could have heard it or noticed the disappointment held in that statement. When their set ended they left the stage with a wave. However, the clapping and cheering of the remaining crowd would not stop. I could see the musicians packing up their gear through the slightly parted curtains and the cheering continued. Workers began to move in to begin the clean up process and unrelentingly we continued to lavish applause through stinging hands and horse voices. I have been to concerts before and never had I witnessed such heart in a crowd. If anything our voices were louder and our clapping even more fierce then when we started. At long last the mighty duo returned to the stage for the encore we had been so instant upon. It was a thing of sublime beauty. We may not have been the largest of crowds but it was obvious that Simon and Garfunkel knew that we were their people. and they played with renewed vigor. That encore was mind blowing and as they played the years seemed to melt away from them. Then they finally left the stage for the second time they did so full of life and energy. I still feel honored to have seen them perform live on stage.
Paul wrote this song and knew that it fit Artie's voice perfectly. There was no way Paul could ever do this song justice and he knew it. One of the biggest things that led to their breakup was that Paul knew it was his best song and realized that only Artie could sing it. he never got over it.
That shows Paul to be narcissistic....in my opinion
@@andrewpetik2034 I have always liked Paul Simon, but I have to agree.
He didn't know it, though. Simon "repatriated" the tune in his final tour instead of properly recognizing it as Art Garfunkel's tour de force.
Simon explained to the crowd that, in so many words, he tossed Garfunkel a bone when he had him sing "Bridge." What a conceited fuck. He did write it, though, didn't he.
@schuberttim
Yes. He is a wonderful song writer and performer.
@@schuberttim Indeed. I saw him do it on TV at the 2016 DNC, and that removed any doubt that Art Garfunkel is the one meant for that song.
My favorite song. It means so much to me. I was 12. My father died in April 1970, and this got me through a year that was devastating in many ways. It still moves me as much as it did back then.
If you want to hear a gospel version done by a vocal master, search for:
Sohyang Immortal Songs 2 "Bridge Over Troubled Water"
[Should get video link with "v=C6iHh4yBxCo".]
This is from a live TV competition for 7 professional singers, so she pulls out all the stops and goes into vocal beast mode. In all reaction videos by vocal coaches and session singers, they're stunned, and a lot of them cry!
My daughter was watching Art sing on tv and she said Back then those songs have Meaning. 😊
♥
For me, S&G is the finest DUO of all time, a once in a lifetime group. The perfect blend of voices, talent, writing, style, and producing.
especially production
Agree with most of that but for me the "perfect blend of voices" award goes to the Everlys.
If you mean the Everly Brothers, I agree that they were very good and blended well, too.@@edwarddonnachie1565
i first heard their songs when my father brought home a cassette tape of their album .. and i immediately fell in love with their songs. this was 1983. i was 10. i would play that album over and over until somehow i lost that copy during my college years, and when the internet arrived and youtube was created, i cried again when i rediscovered their videos and their songs. they have remained my favorite singers up to now.
Bridge Over Troubled Water has such deep meaning for me! My parents had all of their albums and me and my sibs listened to them all the time. Even into the 80's when they weren't cool, I would play them in my room while I read my books. I loved BOTW and, to me, it was like a message from God. It just seemed like thats how I pictured Him, anyway.😏 I didn't think the artists were putting that out, it was just what _I_ thought of.
When my kids were teens, I introduced them to S&G and my daughter immediately said they were lame. Then I told her to just listen to them (as I had to show her with many artists😆). Bridge Over Troubled Water was the one that made her say "Oh." And stopped her objections.
During the pandemic, my girl had an intense breakdown that was truly frightening. I ended up being the best at calming her and helping her get a handle on her fears when she would go into those states. She was basically glued to me for a month and a half until she finally felt well enough to go home. It took every day prayer and medicine and counseling from her doctor, but we were able to help her through it. Its been a few years but just recently she told me that whenever she hears that song, it makes her think of me because I was able to keep her sane when she felt like coming apart🥲. That made me cry because I always imagined the song as the voice of God with a message of love and I never imagined someone would think of me in relation to it.🥰
I'm so glad your daughter is doing better. Music is a great healer. But having our parents right there takes us to our "safe" place. Where mom and dad can fix everything. (Even if they can't, it feels like they can). Prayers for you and your daughter.
You forgot the "L" in plandemic.
I am sincerely glad your daughter is better.
@@gansosmansos Right! And thank you!
@@kathenavarro6850 💯! And thank you!
Bridge Over Troubled Water is one of those divine messages no doubt. I’m sorry to hear about your daughter and I’m glad she has healed.
No one can sing this song better than Art Garfunkel. If Paul Simon sang it, it would not hold it's own with the rest of the songs on the album. Since Art sings it, best song of their career. Love this channel, brother.
Art was the perfect choice!
Personally, I don't know why anyone else even bothered to cover it.
@@rgoers Elvis did a good job with it.
Such a gorgeous voice. No one else could have.
Lol yes they can
Probably the best post "Bridge" duet was "My Little Town" in 1975. When I heard it, the magic came back! Simon is a brilliant songwriter, better than Dylan, although no one will admit it. And you cannot beat Artie's tenor in "I Only Have Eyes For You."
Dear dancymarron,
Comparing Paul Simon to Bob Dylan is like comparing apples and oranges.
Other artists have done some fascinating covers of Dylan compositions and I’m thinking of Dylan’s contribution to The Band while living at Big Pink.
I love Simon and Garfunkel as well as Simon’s solo work especially Graceland, but I also consider Dylan to be up there with the best.
Paul Simon is great...but Dylan is Dylan
I was lucky enough to see one of their reunion tours, Paul Simon was taking all the high harmonies, I believe due to some medical issues Art Garfunkel was having. I was blown away that they could switch up vocals and still sound so amazing.
I'm 71 years old. "Bridge" still brings tears to my eyes every time I play it, and not for any particular memory, but for the pure beauty of the sentiments that the words convey. I cannot think of a better song to end a season of career than this one. The first time I heard them in high fidelity was several years earlier when "The Boxer" was being played on the juke box in a pool hall near the University of Oklahoma. My two buddies and I stopped playing and just listened to the song. Prior to that night, we'd only heard them on an AM portable radio in mono. It broke my heart when they split up. Tom and Jerry (their performing name in high school) were no more.
I can't think of any of their songs that's gotten old no matter how many times I hear them. I've got the box set and it's amazing just how much there is to appreciate out of only 5 albums and the concert in central park.
I was 15 when they split up, and I wept, knowing I would never get to see S&G in concert.
I remember hearing this as a kid and couldn't believe it. I knew this was something special. Paul Simon is a genius and Art Garfunkel's voice was magic. I wish they would do one last album together. There's nothing like their harmonies.
I think I wore a needle out just playing this entire album over and over. Title song is clearly the showcase, but Only Living Boy in New York has a permanent place in my heart.
I was blown away upon first listen. Art sang the hell out of this one.
And the arrangement to this song was responsible for Barry Manilow's entire career.
I couldn't believe it either
How could you NOT love these videos. Music won't feed the poor, or stop wars. But OMG it's such a big important part of our lives. Even in my late 60s, a song will come on the radio and BAM! It's a song of my year, or moment of my life. Thanks Prof for these amazing videos.
Music won't feed the poor, or stop wars...BUT...It does help to inspire those who do.
One of the most Beautiful songs ever sung.
I think if Simon had sung it himself it would still have been VERY good - but with Garfunkel's pure tone it is truly GREAT. Brings tears to my eyes just hearing snippets.
It wouldn’t have been that great. Paul sang one of the verses when I saw them live and it was like- hand the mic back to Art please.
@@kingofallwhites There's a copy of that on CZcams, and I definitely agree with you. It was a reunion show, so him singing more prominently as the writer wasn't wrong, but it did show just how much worse the song would have been if he had sung it rather than Art. I definitely appreciate him giving it to Art all the more after having heard his singing on it. Not bad, just clearly leaving a lot of potential on the table.
Art’s performance of this song at the 81 Central Park concert is one of my favorite performances of all time. Half a million people and it seems like you could hear a pin drop besides the music. Art delivers it in such an understated way. He stays right in the moment for the whole song. It should be training material for anyone who wants to perform live. There’s even just one second at the end where you can see him almost celebrate as if to say “I killed it.”
yeah, there was that moment where he kind of smiled to himself at the end.
I had that on CD and played it on repeat for years until someone stole my disc.
You’re absolutely right. I was there and I was pretty close to the stage. it was one of the most incredible concerts I’ve ever been to.
@@artor9175 It was probably one of your neighbours that stole it if you played it on repeat for years! I'm guessing one of them isn't a fan...
Watched it on tv with my Mom and Sister.
Very talented vocal duo. Nice to hear a Simon and Garfunkel song now and again. Pure magic.
My mom asked me what I wanted for my 13th birthday. I immediately said I wanted the album Bridge Over Troubled Water. I played it over and over. I’m 67 now but I still enjoy listening to Simon & Garfunkel’s music.
Simon and Garfunkel prove the 60s were the decade of the best vocalists/vocal performances.
So true. What is your favorite song by them Christine?
@@ProfessorofRock Definitely "Cecilia" - my friend Cece calls it her song. Always think of her when I hear it.
The 60s bred legend after legend.
The 70's were great as well. Best car music in the 80's.
...Comes along once in a lifetime! Not just a generation, imo. Nobody could sing it better than Art!!!!! Most beautiful voice ever.
So incredible.
The only person I've heard sing it as beautifully as Art was Sarah Brightman, live. She's obviously a very different style of singer, but I'd give a minor organ to hear them sing it together.
I was in college when they did a show in the University or Washington's Hec Edmundson Pavilion. I still remember Bridge Over Troubled Water - still gives me chills. The acoustics in there was amazing! Just amazing. The purity of Art's voice, and the natural reverberation of that old building... just incredible.
I was at that show at the UW, with my wife to be. It still ranks as the best concert experience of our lives.
I met Paul and Art at the concert in Central Park, I worked for a Computer Company that made Mini and Micro Computers "Digital Equipment Corp (DEC)" The company that did the Sound and Light for them used several of our Micro-Computers (PDP 11/23) for their Lighting & Sound control. I used to work in Field Service as a Sr. Field Engineer for DEC. They needed a few of us there on-site if anything went wrong. I used to play the Guitar and Paul Simon & Art Garfunkel & John Denver were my favorites to play. I even went to Paul's brother Eddie's "Guitar Study Center" in Manhattan and took a 12-week class on Guitar techniques it cost me $125 in 1972 dollars. which was a lot of money for a 19-year-old. I was working as an EMT for NYC-HHC-EMS in a new hospital in downtown Manhattan's Lower East Side. I used to play a 12 String Ovation Guitar. That was 51 years ago, Also, I'll be celebrating my 70th Birthday in 10 days (10/19). Love the videos also.
As I've said to others before, Simon and Garfunkel are for all intents and purposes, The American Songbook.
You could take away almost all of the other stuff in modern recording, but if you wanted a representation of the musical experience during our formative years, Simon and Garfunkel is it.
And "Bridge Over Troubled Water" is the crown piece.
I'm just behind, in age, to the teenagers who experienced them firsthand, but I have seen them both on stage individually, Paul in 1996 and Artie in 2008. Both had great shows and co-incidentally, they each mentioned the other during their performances and gave credit to the other for their success.
Honestly, I never “ forgave” them for breaking up! But this is one of the most beautiful songs ever written, and a masterpiece that was best handled by the two f them. Many others have performed it, and many have done justice to it. But it will always be theirs, and their crowning achievement. It is perfection.
I'm not a huge concert-goer, but I WAS at the S&G concert in Central Park. Their performance of "Bridge Over Troubled Water" was, without a doubt, the stunning highlight of the entire show (which was amazing already). Like others have noted, the immense crowd was as silent as a tomb while Art belted out the song, and exploded in wild applause when he finished. Best and most memorable concert I've ever seen.
As a 77 year old Simon & Garfunkel are my very favorites with Sound of Silence as the number one. I can listen to them for days on end. Glad they had some reunions at least. Their harmony is angelic to my ears. No one is better. Want to know number 2? Def Leppard.
Monumental song and Art Garfunkel's finest vocal performance. His outro on the song is extraordinary! While it was sad to see the duo break up, both Paul and Art went on to successful solo careers, a testament to their individual talents. Interesting story behind this song. Thanks Adam!
I love both of their solo careers.
I don’t think it would have been as successful as it was if Paul would have sung the song. It’s Art’s entire presentation of the song that gives it the WOW factor 🤷🏻♀️ It’s a shame that Paul let jealousy control him instead of being proud that he wrote a beautiful song for his friend to sing because it needed his friend to make it superb!
I have to agree!
To be fair, I’ve been in Paul’s shoes before. The only way out is to learn from it.
I always cry when this song plays. It is so beautiful.
It's like they are soulmates, made for each other. The writer and the singer.
All their song are a joy to listen to. The Boxer will always be my favorite. Sadly egos always seem to get in the way to what could have been.
I love The Boxer!
I felt that Simon's Graceland album was simply brilliant. I practically wore out the cassette in the late 80s.
The use of Ladysmith Black Mambazo was genius!
Best album ever to “tune in” new speakers to.
My parents had "Bridge" on 8 track, it played over and over...loved it. Still do.😊
My mother dragged me to see Simon and Garfunkel in Central Park. I hated it. I was 7 years old. I couldn't see a thing. My feet hurt but I was afraid to sit on the grass because I might get stepped on. Mom said, "This is History. You will thank me one day.". And boy did I?!? She was so right that I attended Paul Simon's solo concert in the park 11 years later.
Also I attended my Aunt's graduation at Washington Heights High School in Manhattan. They sang Bridge Over Troubled Water as their Graduation song. I don't know that it is an appropriate grad song. I guess like all the best songs you can weave it into your life in some way. I just remember that song is so haunting and emotional. I was moved by that song as a 6 year old. Without lyrics. It's just an amazing song.
Simon and Garfunkel was the soundtrack to my growing up. They were like clean water, so essential but taken for granted. Kodachrome was such a cool song, Paul Simon is an exceptional talent, hands down!
I know what you mean!
I haven’t heard a better analogy!
My wife is in her early 40’s, I’m in my mid 50’s. I say that to say she could hear me from outside my closed cab tractor singing (bellowing) along with Kodachrome, she was looking at me and making a face like I had slap lost my mind. Great song!
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Thank you, you are kind for saying that.
When l read your comment it hit me that we have come so far away from the hope and love of our generation. Paul and Art really did capture it for us and l think l need to submerge myself in their music again.
Simon and Garfunkel was probably my favorite group back in the 60s and 70s. When they announced their break up, I think I was devastated. But when Artie came out with his version of, “I Only Have Eyes For You” on the album “BreakAway” it restored my faith in humanity! My ‘bride-to-be’ would dance all night long to it. Over and over again on my 45 record player. That song has been our anniversary anthem for 47 years! I always surprise her each year when I play it for her. I have that album hidden in computers, tapes and the vinyl version all over the house …. And on my phone. So thanks Adam, that was a wonderful post. God bless you. Jack & Mary.
One of the most beautiful and moving songs ever written. It has touched millions of people's hearts and given them hope. So sweet about calling your mom. 💖
Unquestionably, one of the greatest songs ever written and it still gives me "goosebumps!"
One of my favorite live albums of all times is Simon and Garfunkel in Central Park. In the song Kodachrome they made a lyric change that shows how age, maturity, and possibly a little hindsight. The line "everything thing looks worse in black and white", is changed to "better".
I like those lines and that story.
How clever is that?
I love Kodachrome but didn’t know that. Thank you.
I always took that lyric to mean the old saying: “Every issue is not just black and white.”, meaning there are different shadings to everything. In that interpretation, everything DOES look worst in black and white, because it’s showing your narrow mindedness. To say that everything now looks BETTER in black and white shows you’re regressing! But I could be COMPLETELY off base with that. To instead interpret the phrase “Everything is BETTER in black and white seems like you’re saying everything was better in the old days when all we have to remind us are black and white pictures. Or it could mean neither of these and instead means “I like jams over jelly’s.”
I can imagine Paul feeling like he was doing all the drudge work, and Art got all the fame, being both a lead singer and an actor. Sometimes the closest friendships can be the most contentious.
My hubby went to one of their concerts, in the 70s, in Auckland New Zealand. He said Art Garfunkel sounded just as fantastic live as he did when he recorded the song. He said he'd never forget it and at nearly 71 he never has.
Paul Simon never got over his mother saying to him, “You have a good voice, but Artie’s is great.”
This was the best, most balanced take on Simon and Garfunkel I've ever heard. So much was made in the press of their animosity that the humans involved got left behind. These guys were the soundtrack to my young life. Paul Simon taught me to play and love guitar. BTW, I was there in Central Park the day of that concert. I couldn't get close enough to the stage to even see them; just listened from about a quarter mile away. Still gave me chills.
Totally agree 👍 Garfunkel's voice soared This song is one of the most beautiful songs ever written😎👍
Paul is phenomenal. Graceland was also album of the year two years in a row. Everything on that album was fantastic. His poetic style is unmatched.
I saw Paul at Wembley in 1990 and again in 2000. Same great musical quality on both occasions, but he didn't speak a word on the first occasion, had relaxed a lot by 2000.
Graceland is one of my Desert Island albums.
I first heard this song in church when it was pretty new. A sixteen-year-old boy with a voice much like Art's covered it. It was an amazing and moving experience. I don't know whatever happened to Cordell Esplin, whether he went on to do anything professionally with that voice. But I'll never forget that moment.
Is this the best Simon and Garfunkel best song? It very well maybe. Now that Art did the vocals I can't see Paul doing any better , imo. This is a timeless classic that continues to be covered till the end of time. More S and G professor!! You knocked this episode out of the park!
Thank God Art was able to do this one!
Ditto that, it's a masterpiece, wasn't in my personal collection, but my parents had it in theirs. Over the decades this has grown much more on me! My husband bought Paul's stand out album Gracelands, (when It came out, back in the day) so we both got re-acquainted again with both Paul & Art.
Love Scarborough Fair, as my family would often holiday in Scarborough, (& Whitby, Filey, Robin Hood Bay, York) when I was little, it was fantastic & wasn't really touristy back in those days!
I’m curious as to your Mom’s reply when you asked her why Bridge meant so much to her. My answer would be: The crescendo, though you’ve heard it hundreds of times, never failed to take a young girl’s breath away...and continues to do so even to this day. No song ever built up so perfectly to such beauty. It literally made me, and still makes me, breathless.
I heard that when they were young and just met, Paul said that he had a song for Art's voice. Paul wrote with both the strengths and weaknesses of their two voices. He was simply amazing at doing that. They needed each other to put out all the hit music that they did. It was sad that the partnership ended, but what better send off than "Bridge Over Troubled Water".
Every time I hear it, the sheer beauty and magnificence of this song makes me well up. It must have been channeled from the angelic realm. In my heart -of-hearts I feel this is the most beautiful song of all time. No other version comes close to the original. The harmonious blend of their voices, the soaring rises and heart wrenching falls, the symphonic arrangement...it's all sheer perfection. When time ends, and as all dissolves back into heaven, this will be the last song playing. So often it's the label that underestimates a song, and the artists have to fight for it, but this time it was the other way around. For whatever reason, Paul just couldn't hear it the way we did. I still have the album.
DAMN! You really said it! Absolutely concur.
Your commentary on this video, as always, is impeccable- especially your comments regarding your mom. This song is so uniquely personal for multitudes and will always remain so.
Thank you!
When I was a teen and first discovered them, I fell in love with "The Boxer", "Cecilia", "El Condor Pasa" and I thought "The Sound Of Silence" was the duo's masterpiece, still do. To a fourteen year old kid, "Bridge Over Troubled Water" was a sappy, goofy song, the kind of song that I believed at that time, that groups had to put on an album to get girls to listen. My opinion has changed. Garfunkel's soaring vocals and Simon's heartfelt writing appeal to me a lot more now that i am a gray haired man jousting with death, constantly having to fend him off with Doctor visits, medical procedures and countless pills, I see something more in it, something deeper, something I need. I need a bridge over troubled water, I need someone who will lay down so I can cross over. I need a few good dreams to come true instead of the bad ones. I understand the song much better now, than I did then. Thank you for this Professor.
Having your mom ask you to present at her high school reunion, is an awesome affirmation of your storytelling capability. Three chords and the truth.
Has there EVER been a vocal as beautiful, pure and perfect as this in the the History of pop music ? No.
This is definitely in rarefied air. I suppose the late Judith Durham, of The Seekers, might qualify. Although her vocals were more a remarkable mix of beauty, purity, and vocal strength.
Fred
The blending of their voices was the unique selling point of Simon and Garfunkel. Without Art Garfunkel, Paul Simon was just another singer-songwriter.
They helped each other become legends.
Paul Simon - "just another singer-songwriter?" No way! I loved Art's singing, but Paul is the piece of this pairing that is irreplaceable. Their solo careers is all the validation needed. This is with all due respect to Art Garfunkel.
Technically, Simon and Garfunkel did collaborate one last time in studio, in 1975 for the song "My Little Town". It was released on Simon's "Still Crazy After All These Years" LP, and Garfunkel's "Breakaway" LP.
Great song.
I saw Paul Simon in concert for the Rhythm of the Saints tour which would’ve been 1990 or ‘91. It was a fantastic show as he played all of his hits over the years. Then he sat at the piano and sang and played BOTW and it was stunning! It was just him and the piano with no other accompaniment and he had the entire arena in the palms of his hands. It brought me to tears…I just couldn’t handle it. I love Art’s voice and performance on the original record, but man, that night Paul proved to us all that it is HIS song!
Fascinating! I would never have expected Paul's version of it to sound that good.
It is the most beautiful song ever written, and Art is just perfect. It should be illegal for it to covered.
Art's vocal is one of the landmark vocals in the history of rock music. It is simply amazing. I'm a pretty good singer, and I count this vocal as one of the greatest ever.
BOTW is one of the best songs ever written. I always envisioned songwriters all over the world thinking when they heard it, “Damn, I wish I wrote that!” It’s absolutely perfect. Also my favorite song of all time.
“All your dreams are on their way”. What a song for humanity
The song just builds and builds to such a triumphant crescendo. I always thought when I heard the lyrics, "How great to have the kind of devotion to another (or vice versa) like that song describes. My stepsister had all the best albums of that time period. I remember that one sitting as the display album, in front of the others.
This is hands down my all-time favorite Simon and Garfunkel song. It's such a shame that Paul Simon felt the way he did, too. But that's what happens when people can't put their egos aside for the betterment of the group.
Great job as always, Prof. Keep it going!
Sad that egos have to ruin talent.
When you do all the song writing etc and someone else just sings them, it’s hard not to feel a bit of angst…. Simon was prolific and art was getting too big for his pants… heee was not the one at the creation of those songs… shoulda been a bit more humble. He didn’t do much after they broke up did he…. Simon went on to do a lot more.
Art’s voice is angelic and sets the mood. I heard him perform it live many years after it came out- it was magical.
I grew up in the’60’s & this duo was one my favorites that I absolutely loved. I’d be in my room, after school, & play them over & over singing along with them. Good times.
I was five and my twelve year old brother called me to his room and said listen to this song. It was on the radio and my brother said...this song is so great it is going to be an anthem. We ran to our parents and asked them to get the record right away. They did! Cool parents of ours in Sydney Australia.
Virtually all of S&G;s songs were written by Paul. Art's voice and harmonies were a valuable part of the duo's success. I've heard Paul sing Bridge and it was good, but Art's voice was the best fit for Bridge. Art's voice also shined in his singing on For Emily, Wherever I Might Find Her. Art's solo in "Overs" was also a special addition.
He was a great singer and proved a vital asset to their music.
Thanks for mentioning 'For Emily'. It's one of my favourite songs.
Musically and lyrically stupendous, but Art’s soaring tenor interpretation makes it an absolute all timer
Hey Adam ! I'm 70 yrs old (I still can't believe it !) and my heyday was the late 60s and 70s. With my first concert in '65 at Shea Stadium the Beatles as my first . . . I've seen EVERYONE in concert . . . most at MSG in NYC. I saw Simon & Garfunkel at (the once) Academy of Music, in the City. They NEVER disappointed ! The kibbitzing they did back and forth was very entertaining ! Good times for them and for me !
Such great memories, grew up listening to Simon and Garfunkel, especially on family camping trips....staple during our family get togethers along with John Denver, Peter, Paul and Mary, James Taylor, etc....would sit around the camp fire singing their songs...WOW, thank you so much for bringing those memories back.
Simon is one of those artists whose music, solo or duet, I love. Grew up on it. But the temper and “less than kind” treatment to others is pretty well covered. Art Garfunkel never seemed to worry about getting in the mud with him. But again, both… amazing… artists.
Love Simon & Garfunkel. I'm so glad to see you do an episode on them. I rank them in my top 5 favorite duos of the rock era. Bridge Over Troubled Water was their swan song and their masterpiece. It won the rare triple crown sweep at the Grammy Awards for Song Of The Year, Record Of The Year, and Album Of The Year. It's a shame that they had such major disagreements that they couldn't stay together. However, they had a fantastic reunion concert in Central Park, New York in 1981. I saw the concert shown on Cable Television's HBO Channel. It still ranks as one of the best concerts I ever saw.
Who are the other four?
Being partners is pretty hard! What are the other duos you consider to be a part of your top 5?
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 My top 5 duos would be (and not necessarily in this order) The Everly Brothers, Simon & Garfunkel, Hall & Oates, The Righteous Brothers, and The Carpenters. A few honorable mentions would be Air Supply, Tears For Fears, and Wham.
@@stephenhanft1226 I thought you would include Tears for Fears in the top 5 like in my personal list. You are entitled to your opinion though. 😊
For me: Tears for Fears, Hall and Oates, Simon and Garfunkel, The Righteous Brothers, and the Pet Shop Boys
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 We have some similarities in our top 5's. Since Karen Carpenter is my all-time favorite female singer and the Everly Brothers are the first great duo of the rock era, I had to put both in my top 5. While I didn't include Tears For Fears in my top 5, I did include them in my honorable mentions.
"Bridge" still brings tears.
This was the band, where as a kid, it hit me that many songs were actually About SOMETHING ...
Simon is a genius.