Five of the best from Simon and Garfunkel

• Bridge over Troubled Water (1970) – This album is their most successful, featuring the iconic title track, “Bridge over Troubled Water.” It topped the charts worldwide and won multiple Grammy Awards.
• Bookends (1968) – Featuring hits like “Mrs. Robinson,” this album reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and was critically acclaimed.
• Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme (1966) – Known for songs like “Scarborough Fair/Canticle,” this album solidified their reputation and was a commercial success.
• Sounds of Silence (1966) – The title track, “The Sound of Silence,” became a massive hit, propelling the album to high sales and chart positions.
• Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M. (1964) – While not initially as successful, this debut album gained popularity after the success of “The Sound of Silence” and contributed to their overall success.

1. Bridge over Troubled Water (1970)

“Bridge over Troubled Water,” released in 1970 by Simon & Garfunkel, is a monumental achievement in folk rock history. This iconic album, which marks the duo’s final studio collaboration, showcases their unparalleled harmonies and lyrical depth. The title track, “Bridge over Troubled Water,” became an anthem of hope and reassurance, highlighting Art Garfunkel’s soaring vocals. The album blends diverse musical styles, from gospel and rock to folk, reflecting Paul Simon’s songwriting genius.

Commercially, “Bridge over Troubled Water” was a massive success, topping charts globally and winning multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. Hits like “The Boxer” and “Cecilia” contributed to its enduring popularity. The album’s introspective themes and innovative production set it apart in the music landscape of the 1970s. Today, “Bridge over Troubled Water” remains a timeless classic, cementing Simon & Garfunkel’s legacy in music history.

2. Bookends (1968)

“Bookends,” released in 1968, is a landmark album in the folk-rock genre. This album showcases the duo’s ability to blend poignant lyrics with intricate harmonies, creating a rich, emotional listening experience. The hit song “Mrs. Robinson,” featured on the album, gained widespread acclaim, further cementing the duo’s influence in 1960s music.

“Bookends” explores themes of aging, societal changes, and personal introspection, reflecting the cultural climate of its time. The innovative production and cohesive narrative structure of the album highlight Paul Simon’s songwriting prowess and Art Garfunkel’s vocal artistry. The album achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and earning critical acclaim for its artistic depth and musical complexity.

Today, “Bookends” remains a timeless classic, representing a pivotal moment in Simon & Garfunkel’s career and continuing to resonate with audiences worldwide. This album is a testament to their lasting impact on the music industry.

3. Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme (1966)

“Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme,” released in 1966, is a cornerstone in folk rock history. This album highlights the duo’s exquisite harmonies and Paul Simon’s lyrical brilliance. Featuring the beloved track “Scarborough Fair/Canticle,” the album weaves traditional folk melodies with contemporary themes, creating a timeless listening experience.

“Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme” delves into themes of social commentary, love, and introspection, reflecting the cultural landscape of the 1960s. The album’s production, marked by its rich, textured soundscapes, showcases Art Garfunkel’s vocal finesse and Simon’s intricate guitar work. Commercially, the album was a success, solidifying Simon & Garfunkel’s status as leading artists in the folk rock movement.

Today, “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme” is celebrated for its artistic innovation and enduring appeal. It remains a vital part of Simon & Garfunkel’s legacy, continuing to captivate audiences with its melodic beauty and lyrical depth.

4. Sounds of Silence (1966)

“Sounds of Silence,” released in 1966, is a defining album in the folk rock genre. The title track, “The Sound of Silence,” became a cultural phenomenon, resonating deeply with its haunting melody and reflective lyrics. This album captures the essence of the 1960s, blending introspective themes with Simon’s masterful songwriting and Garfunkel’s emotive vocals.

“Sounds of Silence” addresses issues such as alienation, social change, and the search for meaning, making it a poignant reflection of its era. The album’s acoustic and electric arrangements highlight the duo’s ability to fuse folk roots with contemporary rock influences. Its commercial success propelled Simon & Garfunkel to international fame, reaching high positions on the charts and earning critical acclaim.

Today, “Sounds of Silence” remains a timeless classic, showcasing Simon & Garfunkel’s enduring impact on music. Its lyrical depth and melodic richness continue to captivate listeners, solidifying the album’s place in the pantheon of great music.

5. Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M. (1964)

“Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.,” released in 1964, , sets the stage for their influential career in folk music. The album introduces the duo’s harmonious blend of voices and Paul Simon’s exceptional songwriting. Featuring the original acoustic version of “The Sound of Silence,” the album initially received modest attention but later gained significant recognition.

This album captures the essence of early 1960s folk music, with its acoustic arrangements and socially conscious lyrics. Themes of love, faith, and protest are interwoven throughout the tracks, reflecting the era’s cultural and political atmosphere. The simplicity and sincerity of the music on “Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.” highlight Simon & Garfunkel’s raw talent and potential.

While not immediately commercially successful, the album’s re-release after the electrified version of “The Sound of Silence” became a hit, cemented its place in music history. Today, “Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.” is appreciated for its authentic folk sound and as the starting point of Simon & Garfunkel’s remarkable journey in the music world.