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Early Beginnings and Formation

Paul Simon (b. October 13, 1941) and Art Garfunkel (b. November 5, 1941) met in elementary school in Queens, New York, in 1953. Initially performing as 'Tom & Jerry,' they scored a minor hit with 'Hey Schoolgirl' (1957) before disbanding. The duo reunited in 1964 under their real names, signing with Columbia Records and releasing their folk-driven debut album 'Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.'

Breakthrough Success

After initial commercial disappointment, producer Tom Wilson remixed 'The Sound of Silence' with electric instruments, propelling it to #1 on US charts in 1965. This unexpected success reunited Simon & Garfunkel, leading to iconic albums like 'Sounds of Silence' (1966), 'Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme' (1966), and the Grammy-winning 'Bookends' (1968), featuring hits like 'Mrs. Robinson' for 'The Graduate' soundtrack.

Songwriting and Musical Style

Paul Simon served as the duo's primary songwriter, crafting introspective lyrics exploring alienation, love, and social commentary. Garfunkel contributed soaring tenor harmonies and occasional co-arrangements. Their signature blend of folk, rock, and sophisticated vocal interplay produced timeless classics, including 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' (written solely by Simon) and 'The Boxer.'

Bridge Over Troubled Water and Breakup

Their 1970 album 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' became a cultural phenomenon, winning six Grammys including Album of the Year. Despite its success, tensions over creative control and Simon's desire for solo work led to their breakup later that year. The title track, recorded by over 50 artists including Aretha Franklin, remains one of history's most covered songs.

Legacy and Reunions

Simon & Garfunkel reunited for major events like 1981's free Concert in Central Park (attended by 500,000+ fans) and a 2003-2004 world tour. Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (1990), they've sold over 100 million records. Their influence persists in modern folk and rock, with songs frequently featured in films and cultural retrospectives.

• The famous electric version of 'The Sound of Silence' was created by producer Tom Wilson without Simon or Garfunkel's initial knowledge or approval, against their acoustic vision.
• Art Garfunkel temporarily left the duo during college to study architecture, while Simon pursued English literature, before their 1964 reunion.
• Their 1970 breakup was fueled by Garfunkel's focus on acting (e.g., 'Catch-22') and Simon's resentment over his delayed return to recording.
• During a 1975 reunion attempt, Simon inserted Garfunkel's solo track into his own record, causing Garfunkel to storm out and derail the project.