Who's behind the notes? Discover Simon & Garfunkel: The Legendary Folk Rock Duo
"Bridge Over Troubled Water" is one of Simon & Garfunkel's most iconic songs, and it's associated with some interesting facts and trivia:
Release Date: The song was released as the title track of the duo's fifth and final studio album, "Bridge Over Troubled Water," in January 1970. It quickly became a massive hit.
Songwriting Credits: "Bridge Over Troubled Water" was written by Paul Simon, and it's considered one of his greatest compositions. Art Garfunkel provided the vocals for the song, and his soaring voice became an integral part of its success.
Gospel Influence: The song has a strong gospel influence, with its heartfelt lyrics and soaring melodies. The use of a gospel choir in the recording added to the song's emotional impact.
Chart-Topping Success: "Bridge Over Troubled Water" was a massive hit and topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States for six consecutive weeks. It also reached number one on the UK Singles Chart.
Grammy Awards: At the 13th Annual Grammy Awards in 1971, "Bridge Over Troubled Water" won several awards, including Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Contemporary Song. The album of the same name also won the Grammy for Album of the Year.
Controversy: There was some tension between Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel during the recording of the song. Garfunkel initially felt that the song should be a solo performance, with only his vocals, but Simon convinced him to sing together, resulting in the powerful harmonies that make the song so memorable.
Cover Versions: "Bridge Over Troubled Water" has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and many more. These covers showcase the enduring popularity and universal appeal of the song.
Art Garfunkel's Vocal Range: Art Garfunkel's performance on "Bridge Over Troubled Water" is often praised for its vocal prowess. His high notes in the song's climax are particularly remarkable and contributed to the song's emotional impact.
Enduring Legacy: The song remains a classic and is often included in lists of the greatest songs of all time. Its message of support and comfort in times of trouble continues to resonate with audiences.
Cultural Impact: "Bridge Over Troubled Water" has been used in various films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. Its timeless message and powerful melody have made it a staple in popular culture.
"Bridge Over Troubled Water" is a timeless classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners with its powerful lyrics and memorable melodies.