Simon and Garfunkel are an American folk rock duo who rose to fame during the 1960s. Their music has touched the hearts of millions around the world, and their songs continue to be enjoyed by music lovers of all ages. Over the course of their illustrious career, Simon and Garfunkel produced a plethora of hits that continue to be regarded as some of the greatest songs of all time.
The 20 best Simon and Garfunkel songs of all time include classics such as “The Sound of Silence,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Mrs. Robinson,” “Scarborough Fair/Canticle,” and “Homeward Bound.” These songs feature intricate melodies and poetic lyrics that showcase the duo’s impressive musicianship and songwriting abilities.
Other notable tracks on this list include “The Boxer,” “America,” “April Come She Will,” and “The Only Living Boy in New York.” Each of these songs tells a unique story that resonates with listeners, and their beautiful harmonies and intricate arrangements have made them classics in the world of music.
Simon and Garfunkel’s music has influenced countless artists over the years, and their songs continue to inspire new generations of musicians. Their legacy as one of the most iconic and influential duos in music history is cemented by the enduring popularity of their timeless songs.
1. “The Sound of Silence”
“The Sound of Silence” is a poignant song written by Paul Simon and performed by Simon and Garfunkel in 1964. The song’s lyrics paint a bleak and desolate picture of urban life, with its theme centering around the idea of people being unable to communicate with each other despite living in close proximity. The haunting melody and melancholic tone of the song perfectly capture the sense of isolation and loneliness that the lyrics convey.The song opens with the famous lines, “Hello darkness, my old friend, I’ve come to talk with you again.” This sets the tone for the rest of the song, with the narrator acknowledging the darkness that surrounds him and seeking solace in it. The song goes on to describe the sounds of silence, which the narrator personifies as something tangible that can be touched and felt.The lyrics of the song are full of vivid imagery, such as “the neon light that split the night” and “the words of the prophets written on the subway walls.” These images paint a picture of a city that is cold and impersonal, where people are isolated and disconnected from each other.Overall, “The Sound of Silence” is a powerful song that speaks to the human experience of loneliness and the struggle to find connection in a world that can often feel alienating.
2. “Homeward Bound”
“Homeward Bound” is another classic song from Simon and Garfunkel, written by Paul Simon in 1965. The song tells the story of a traveler who is eager to return home after a long journey. The melody is upbeat and catchy, with a sense of urgency that reflects the narrator’s desire to be reunited with his loved ones.The lyrics of the song are full of rich imagery, describing the sights and sounds of the narrator’s journey, such as “the conductor sings his song again, the passengers will please refrain” and “the suitcase weighed me down.” These details help to create a vivid sense of place and atmosphere, making the listener feel as if they too are traveling alongside the narrator.As the song progresses, the narrator becomes more and more desperate to return home, singing “homeward bound, I wish I was, homeward bound.” This sense of longing is palpable throughout the song, and the chorus is particularly memorable, with its catchy melody and repeated refrain of “homeward bound.”
Overall, “Homeward Bound” is a beautiful and uplifting song that captures the joy of returning home after a long journey, and the sense of relief and contentment that comes with being reunited with loved ones.
3. “I Am a Rock”
“I Am a Rock” is a hauntingly beautiful song that speaks to the experience of emotional isolation and detachment. Written by Paul Simon in 1965, the song features spare instrumentation and a simple melody that perfectly complement the starkness of the lyrics.The song opens with the line “a winter’s day, in a deep and dark December,” setting the tone for the rest of the song, which is full of bleak and desolate imagery. The narrator describes himself as “a rock, I am an island,” emphasizing his emotional detachment from others and his desire to be self-sufficient.Throughout the song, the narrator describes his inability to connect with others, singing “I have my books and my poetry to protect me, I am shielded in my armor.” The song’s sparse instrumentation and haunting melody serve to emphasize the sense of loneliness and isolation that the lyrics convey.
Overall, “I Am a Rock” is a powerful and moving song that speaks to the human experience of emotional detachment and the struggle to connect with others. The spare instrumentation and simple melody serve to heighten the impact of the lyrics, creating a hauntingly beautiful song that lingers in the memory long after it has ended.
4. “America”
“America” is a song by Simon and Garfunkel that tells the story of two young lovers as they embark on a cross-country road trip. Written by Paul Simon in 1968, the song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the American landscape, describing the sights and sounds of the journey in great detail.The song opens with the iconic lines, “Let us be lovers, we’ll marry our fortunes together, I’ve got some real estate here in my bag.” These lines set the tone for the rest of the song, with the narrator describing his desire for adventure and his willingness to take risks in pursuit of his dreams.As the song progresses, the narrator describes the various places he and his lover visit, from Michigan to Pittsburgh to New Jersey. The lyrics are full of rich imagery, describing the landscape and the people they encounter along the way. The chorus is particularly memorable, with its catchy melody and repeated refrain of “I’m empty and aching and I don’t know why.”
Overall, “America” is a powerful and evocative song that captures the spirit of adventure and the desire for freedom that is so central to the American experience.
5. “59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy)”
“59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy)” is a lighthearted and upbeat song that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Written by Paul Simon in 1966, the song’s catchy melody and whimsical lyrics make it an instant classic.The song opens with the iconic lines, “Slow down, you move too fast, you got to make the morning last.” These lines set the tone for the rest of the song, with the narrator encouraging the listener to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.As the song progresses, the lyrics become more and more playful, with the narrator describing various mundane activities such as “sipping coffee” and “watching the news.” The chorus is particularly memorable, with its catchy melody and repeated refrain of “feelin’ groovy.”
Overall, “59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy)” is a delightful and whimsical song that captures the carefree spirit of the 1960s.
6. “Cloudy”
“Cloudy” is a melancholic and introspective song that speaks to the human experience of sadness and emotional turmoil. Written by Paul Simon in 1966, the song’s spare instrumentation and haunting melody serve to heighten the impact of the lyrics.The song opens with the line “the sky is gray and the light is fading away,” setting the tone for the rest of the song, which is full of bleak and desolate imagery. The narrator describes his feelings of sadness and isolation, singing “I can’t get the memories out of my head, and some kind of madness is starting to grow.”As the song progresses, the narrator becomes more and more desperate, singing “I’m lost in a dream, and I’m screaming for someone to come and find me.” The song’s spare instrumentation and haunting melody serve to emphasize the sense of loneliness and isolation that the lyrics convey.
Overall, “Cloudy” is a powerful and moving song that speaks to the human experience of emotional turmoil and the struggle to find meaning and connection in a world that can often feel cold and indifferent. The spare instrumentation and haunting melody make for a hauntingly beautiful song that lingers in the memory long after it has ended.
In conclusion, Simon and Garfunkel are iconic figures in the world of music, and their songs continue to resonate with audiences today. From the hauntingly beautiful “Sound of Silence” to the carefree whimsy of “59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy),” each of their songs has something unique and special to offer. Through their music, Simon and Garfunkel captured the spirit of the 196
7. “At the Zoo”
Simon and Garfunkel’s “At the Zoo” is a playful and whimsical song that transports the listener to the world of the zoo. Released in 1967, the song’s catchy melody and clever lyrics make it a favorite among fans of the duo.
The song opens with the memorable lines, “Someone told me it’s all happening at the zoo, I do believe it, I do believe it’s true.” The narrator then goes on to describe the various animals he sees at the zoo, from the lions to the monkeys to the pandas. The lyrics are full of clever wordplay and playful rhymes, making the song a delight to listen to.As the song progresses, the narrator becomes more and more immersed in the world of the zoo, singing “It’s always such a pleasant surprise, when animals have human eyes.” The song’s catchy melody and playful lyrics make it a joyous celebration of the wonders of the natural world.
8. “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)”
“El Condor Pasa (If I Could)” is a hauntingly beautiful song that showcases the duo’s talent for blending traditional South American music with their own unique sound. The song was released in 1970 and quickly became a hit, thanks in no small part to its memorable melody and evocative lyrics.The song opens with the iconic sound of the pan flute, which sets the tone for the rest of the song. The narrator then begins to sing about his desire to fly like the majestic condor, singing “I’d rather be a sparrow than a snail, yes I would, if I could, I surely would.”As the song progresses, the narrator becomes more and more wistful, singing “I’d rather feel the earth beneath my feet, yes I would, if I only could, I surely would.” The song’s haunting melody and evocative lyrics make it a powerful meditation on the human desire for freedom and connection with nature.
9. “A Hazy Shade of Winter”
“A Hazy Shade of Winter” is a powerful and evocative song that captures the sense of disillusionment and despair that many people felt in the late 1960s. Released in 1967, the song’s driving rhythm and memorable lyrics make it a standout track on the duo’s “Bookends” album.The song opens with the lines “Time, time, time, see what’s become of me, while I looked around for my possibilities.” The narrator then goes on to describe his feelings of confusion and despair, singing “Hang on to your hopes, my friend, that’s an easy thing to say, but if your hopes should pass away, simply pretend that you can build them again.”As the song progresses, the narrator becomes more and more desperate, singing “In a winter’s town, in a seaside town, they forgot to tell me the price that I would pay.” The song’s driving rhythm and powerful lyrics make it a potent meditation on the human experience of disillusionment and the struggle to find meaning in a world that can often feel cold and indifferent.
Overall, Simon and Garfunkel were masters at crafting evocative and powerful songs that continue to resonate with audiences today. From the playful whimsy of “At the Zoo” to the haunting beauty of “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)” to the powerful meditation on disillusionment in “A Hazy Shade of Winter,” each of their songs has something unique and special to offer. Through their music, Simon and Garfunkel captured the spirit of the 1960s and continue to inspire generations of fans around the world.
10. “We Got a Groovy Thing Going”
Simon and Garfunkel’s “We Got a Groovy Thing Going” is a fun and upbeat song that captures the carefree spirit of the 1960s. Released in 1965, the song’s infectious melody and catchy lyrics make it a standout track on the duo’s “Sounds of Silence” album.The song opens with the memorable lines “We’ve got a groovy thing going, baby, we’ve got a groovy thing.” The narrator then goes on to describe the joys of being in love, singing “It’s such a thrill to be near you, darling, it’s such a thrill just to hear you say.”As the song progresses, the narrator becomes more and more enamored with his lover, singing “I’m so happy just to be around you, darling, can’t you see what you do to me?” The song’s upbeat tempo and joyful lyrics make it a perfect anthem for anyone looking to celebrate the joys of love and romance.
11. “Cecilia”
“Cecilia” is a classic Simon and Garfunkel song that showcases the duo’s talent for crafting memorable melodies and catchy lyrics. Released in 1970, the song’s driving rhythm and playful lyrics make it a standout track on the duo’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water” album.The song opens with the iconic sound of the drums, which sets the tone for the rest of the song. The narrator then begins to sing about his tumultuous relationship with his lover, singing “Cecilia, you’re breaking my heart, you’re shaking my confidence daily.”As the song progresses, the narrator becomes more and more desperate, singing “I got up to wash my face, when I come back to bed someone’s taken my place.” The song’s driving rhythm and playful lyrics make it a perfect anthem for anyone who has ever struggled with the ups and downs of a tumultuous relationship.
12. “Keep the Customer Satisfied”
“Keep the Customer Satisfied” is a powerful and evocative song that captures the struggles and frustrations of life on the road. Released in 1970, the song’s driving rhythm and memorable lyrics make it a standout track on the duo’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water” album.The song opens with the memorable lines “Gee but it’s great to be back home, home is where I want to be.” The narrator then goes on to describe the trials and tribulations of life on tour, singing “I’ve been to Oklahoma, the sun sets there in line, but I’m not about to ask for sympathy.”As the song progresses, the narrator becomes more and more frustrated with the demands of life on the road, singing “I don’t need a bed of roses, ’cause roses wither away, all I need is someone to believe in me.” The song’s driving rhythm and powerful lyrics make it a potent meditation on the human experience of struggle and the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of adversity.
Overall, Simon and Garfunkel were masters at crafting evocative and powerful songs that continue to resonate with audiences today. From the fun and carefree spirit of “We Got a Groovy Thing Going” to the playful lyrics of “Cecilia” to the powerful meditation on struggle in “Keep the Customer Satisfied,” each of their songs has something unique and special to offer. Through their music, Simon and Garfunkel captured the spirit of the 1960s and continue to inspire generations of fans around the world.
13. “Mrs Robinson”
Simon and Garfunkel’s “Mrs. Robinson” is a timeless classic that perfectly captures the spirit of the 1960s. Originally released in 1968, the song is perhaps best known for its inclusion in the iconic film “The Graduate,” for which it was written.The song opens with the memorable lines “And here’s to you, Mrs. Robinson, Jesus loves you more than you will know.” The lyrics are both playful and irreverent, and they set the tone for the rest of the song.As the song progresses, the narrator sings about the complexities of adult relationships, singing “Sitting on a sofa on a Sunday afternoon, going to the candidates’ debate, laughing about the way they want to go.” The song’s playful lyrics and catchy melody make it a perfect reflection of the carefree spirit of the 1960s.
14. “The Boxer”
“The Boxer” is another classic Simon and Garfunkel song that has stood the test of time. Released in 1969, the song’s powerful lyrics and haunting melody make it one of the duo’s most memorable tracks.The song opens with the iconic sound of the acoustic guitar, which sets the tone for the rest of the song. The narrator then begins to sing about his struggles and hardships, singing “I am just a poor boy, though my story’s seldom told, I have squandered my resistance for a pocket full of mumbles, such are promises.”As the song progresses, the narrator becomes more and more determined to overcome his struggles, singing “I am leaving, I am leaving, but the fighter still remains.” The song’s haunting melody and powerful lyrics make it a potent reflection on the human experience of struggle and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
15. “Scarborough Fair/Canticle”
“Scarborough Fair/Canticle” is a beautiful and haunting song that showcases Simon and Garfunkel’s talent for crafting intricate and evocative melodies. The song, which was released in 1966, is a reworking of the traditional English folk song “Scarborough Fair.”The song opens with the memorable lines “Are you going to Scarborough Fair? Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme.” The lyrics are both beautiful and haunting, and they set the tone for the rest of the song.As the song progresses, the melody becomes more complex and layered, with Simon and Garfunkel adding their own lyrics and harmonies to the traditional melody. The result is a beautiful and evocative song that captures the spirit of the 1960s and continues to resonate with audiences today.
Overall, Simon and Garfunkel were masters at crafting evocative and memorable songs that continue to inspire and captivate audiences today. From the playful lyrics of “Mrs. Robinson” to the haunting melody of “The Boxer” to the intricate harmonies of “Scarborough Fair/Canticle,” each of their songs has something unique and special to offer. Through their music, Simon and Garfunkel captured the spirit of their generation and continue to inspire generations of fans around the world.
16. “The Dangling Conversation”
“The Dangling Conversation,” “Old Friends,” and “For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her” are three of Simon & Garfunkel’s most iconic and evocative songs. Each song showcases the duo’s trademark harmonies and insightful lyrics, touching on themes of nostalgia, relationships, and the passage of time.”The Dangling Conversation” is a melancholic song that reflects on a failed relationship. The song’s title refers to the lack of communication between the two lovers, who are unable to connect emotionally despite their physical proximity. The lyrics are introspective and insightful, painting a vivid picture of the couple’s disconnectedness. The song’s sparse, delicate instrumentation serves to underscore the melancholic mood, with Paul Simon’s fingerpicked guitar and Art Garfunkel’s soaring harmonies providing the perfect accompaniment.
17. “Old Friends”
“Old Friends” is a wistful ballad that looks back on the passing of time and the changes it brings. The song features some of Simon & Garfunkel’s most beautiful harmonies, with Garfunkel’s ethereal voice floating over Simon’s gentle guitar picking. The lyrics are poignant and reflective, touching on themes of friendship, aging, and the fleeting nature of time. The song’s nostalgic feel and haunting melody make it a fan favorite, and it remains one of the duo’s most enduring compositions.
18. “For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her”
“For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her” is a tender and romantic song that showcases Simon’s gift for poetic lyricism. The song’s lilting melody and delicate acoustic guitar provide the perfect backdrop for Simon’s tender vocals, which express a longing for a lost love. The lyrics are both romantic and wistful, evoking a sense of longing and nostalgia that is characteristic of much of Simon & Garfunkel’s music. The song’s emotional depth and understated beauty have made it a fan favorite over the years, and it remains a standout in the duo’s catalog.
All three of these songs are examples of Simon & Garfunkel’s ability to tap into universal emotions and themes with their music. Their ability to craft songs that resonate with listeners on a personal level is a testament to their songwriting prowess and musical talent. Each song is characterized by its haunting melody, exquisite harmonies, and insightful lyrics, making them enduring classics that have stood the test of time.
In conclusion, “The Dangling Conversation,” “Old Friends,” and “For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her” are three of Simon & Garfunkel’s most beloved songs. Each song showcases the duo’s unique ability to create music that touches the heart and speaks to the soul. From the melancholic longing of “The Dangling Conversation” to the nostalgic reflection of “Old Friends” and the tender romance of “For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her,” these songs continue to resonate with audiences today and stand as a testament to the timeless beauty of Simon & Garfunkel’s music.
19. “Bridge over Troubled Water”
“Bridge over Troubled Water” is the title track of Simon & Garfunkel’s fifth and final studio album, released in 1970. It is a gospel-inspired ballad written by Paul Simon and features Art Garfunkel’s soaring vocals. The song’s lyrics offer comfort to someone going through a difficult time, reassuring them that they are not alone and that they can rely on the speaker for support. The song’s instrumentation, including a piano and strings, adds to the emotional weight of the lyrics.
20. “Song For The Asking”
“Song For The Asking” is the final track of Simon & Garfunkel’s album “Bridge over Troubled Water”. It is a simple, acoustic ballad with Paul Simon’s gentle vocals accompanied by his guitar. The lyrics are introspective and melancholic, with Simon reflecting on the fleeting nature of life and the difficulty of communication between people. The song’s melody is hauntingly beautiful, and its spare arrangement allows the listener to focus on Simon’s poetic lyrics. Despite being a lesser-known track, “Song For The Asking” serves as a poignant conclusion to the album, leaving the listener with a sense of wistfulness and reflection.
Jared Parker is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
