We have a collection of 18 arrangements for Traditional - Scarborough Fair
What mysterious tasks does the singer demand in "Scarborough Fair"? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Simon & Garfunkel: The Legendary Folk Rock Duo
"Scarborough Fair/Canticle" is a famous song by the American folk rock duo Simon & Garfunkel, written by Paul Simon. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the duo:
Traditional Ballad: The melody and some of the lyrics in "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" are based on a traditional English ballad called "Scarborough Fair." The ballad dates back to the 17th century and has been sung by various artists throughout history.
Arrangement: Simon & Garfunkel's version of "Scarborough Fair" features a unique and intricate vocal arrangement. Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel's harmonious voices blend beautifully, creating a distinctive sound that contributed to their success as a duo.
Album: The song was included on Simon & Garfunkel's 1966 album "Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme." The album received critical acclaim and helped solidify the duo's reputation as one of the most influential acts of the 1960s folk rock scene.
Counter-Culture Icon: Simon & Garfunkel's music, including "Scarborough Fair/Canticle," became anthems for the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Their songs often dealt with social and political issues of the time, and their music resonated with a generation seeking change.
Canticle: The song is often referred to as "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" because it incorporates an anti-war song called "Canticle" in the middle of the traditional ballad. The "Canticle" section features lyrics from "The Side of a Hill," another song written by Paul Simon.
Message of Peace: The "Canticle" portion of the song includes the famous lines "And the sign said, 'The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls / And tenement halls.'" These lines convey a message of social awareness and the hope for peace and change.
Cover Versions: "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but Simon & Garfunkel's rendition remains the most iconic. It has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials.
Grammy Awards: Simon & Garfunkel won two Grammy Awards in 1969 for their work on "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" and their album "Bookends." These awards further cemented their status as one of the most celebrated musical acts of their time.
Legacy: The song continues to be a staple in folk and acoustic music and is often performed by contemporary artists paying homage to Simon & Garfunkel's influential sound.
Reunions: Although Simon & Garfunkel experienced periods of estrangement throughout their career, they reunited several times for special performances, including their famous concert in Central Park in 1981, where they performed "Scarborough Fair" to an estimated 500,000 people.
"Scarborough Fair/Canticle" remains a timeless classic that showcases Simon & Garfunkel's exceptional vocal harmonies and their ability to blend traditional folk music with contemporary themes.