We have a collection of 18 arrangements for Traditional - Scarborough Fair
How did Simon & Garfunkel’s arrangement transform this ancient ballad into a 1960s classic? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Simon & Garfunkel: The Legendary Folk Rock Duo
"Scarborough Fair/Canticle" is a classic folk song by the American music duo Simon & Garfunkel. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the artists:
Traditional English Ballad: "Scarborough Fair" is based on an old English ballad that dates back to the 17th century. The song's lyrics have been passed down through generations, and it has been recorded and performed by various artists over the years.
Blend of Two Songs: Simon & Garfunkel combined "Scarborough Fair" with another original song called "Canticle." The blending of the traditional English ballad with their own lyrics and melodies created a unique and memorable song.
Symbolism and Meaning: The lyrics of "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" are known for their symbolism and complexity. The song's narrative revolves around a series of impossible tasks that must be completed to win back a lost love. Each task is linked to elements from the natural world, such as herbs and precious metals.
Paul Simon's Guitar Work: The song features intricate fingerpicking guitar work by Paul Simon, which adds to its distinctive sound. Simon's guitar style is known for its precision and elegance, and it plays a significant role in the song's overall atmosphere.
Hit Single: "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" was released as a single in 1968 and became one of Simon & Garfunkel's biggest hits. It reached the number 11 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and received widespread acclaim for its unique folk-rock sound.
Grammy Awards: The song was included on the duo's highly acclaimed album "Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme" (1966), and it earned Simon & Garfunkel two Grammy Awards in 1969. The awards were for Best Arrangement of Voices and Best Contemporary Pop Performance by a Duo or Group.
Cultural Influence: "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" has been covered and sampled by numerous artists and has appeared in various movies, TV shows, and commercials over the years. Its enduring popularity continues to make it a beloved classic in the folk and rock music genres.
Reunions: Simon & Garfunkel have reunited several times over the years to perform the song live, including their memorable performance in New York City's Central Park in 1981, which attracted a massive audience.
"Scarborough Fair/Canticle" remains a timeless and iconic song that showcases the artistic brilliance of Simon & Garfunkel and their ability to reinterpret traditional folk music in a contemporary context.