Simon and Garfunkel are widely regarded as one of the greatest musical duos of all time, with a career spanning over a decade and a legacy that has endured to this day. Their music, which blends folk, rock, and pop influences with intricate harmonies and poetic lyrics, has become a touchstone of American popular culture. With a discography that includes classic albums like “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and “Bookends,” it can be difficult to narrow down the duo’s best songs. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 best Simon and Garfunkel songs of all time, exploring the stories behind each track and what makes them so special. From timeless classics like “The Sound of Silence” and “Mrs. Robinson” to hauntingly beautiful tracks like “For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her” and “The Dangling Conversation,” this list is a tribute to the enduring legacy of Simon and Garfunkel’s music.
1. Cecilia
“Cecilia” by Simon and Garfunkel is a lively and energetic track that showcases the duo’s signature harmonies and distinctive guitar sound. The song is built around a simple but infectious rhythm, with hand claps and percussion providing a driving beat. The lyrics tell the story of a tumultuous relationship with a woman named Cecilia, who the narrator can’t seem to get out of his head. The chorus, which features the repetition of the name “Cecilia” in a catchy melody, is sure to get stuck in your head after just one listen. The song’s upbeat tempo and playful lyrics make it a classic feel-good track that’s perfect for any occasion.
2. Keep the Customer Satisfied
“Keep the Customer Satisfied” is a fun and upbeat song that features Simon and Garfunkel’s trademark harmonies and catchy guitar riffs. The lyrics describe the trials and tribulations of life on the road as a musician, and the need to keep fans happy in order to stay successful. The chorus, which repeats the phrase “keep the customer satisfied,” is a catchy and memorable hook that stays with you long after the song is over. The song’s driving beat and infectious energy make it a great choice for getting pumped up before a big event or simply dancing around the room.
3. Mrs Robinson
“Mrs. Robinson” is a classic Simon and Garfunkel song that has become an iconic part of American popular culture. The song was written for the movie “The Graduate,” and its catchy melody and memorable lyrics helped to make the film a cultural phenomenon. The song’s lyrics are a wry commentary on the state of American society in the 1960s, and its references to Hollywood stars and political scandals make it a fascinating time capsule of the era. The song’s chorus, which features the repetition of the line “Mrs. Robinson, you’re trying to seduce me,” is one of the most memorable in pop music history.
4. The Boxer
“The Boxer” is a haunting and introspective song that showcases Simon and Garfunkel’s signature harmonies and introspective lyrics. The song tells the story of a young man who leaves his home in search of fame and fortune, only to find himself alone and struggling in the big city. The chorus, which features the repetition of the line “I am just a poor boy, though my story’s seldom told,” is a poignant and powerful reflection on the struggles of the working class. The song’s melancholic melody and haunting instrumentation make it a powerful and emotional piece of music that has become one of Simon and Garfunkel’s most beloved tracks.
5. Scarborough Fair/Canticle
“Scarborough Fair/Canticle” is a haunting and beautiful song that blends traditional English folk music with Simon and Garfunkel’s signature harmonies and intricate guitar work. The song is built around a traditional English ballad, “Scarborough Fair,” but features additional lyrics and instrumentation that make it a truly unique piece of music. The song’s melody is haunting and beautiful, and the lyrics are filled with poetic imagery and symbolism. The addition of a new melody and lyrics in the second half of the song, which serves as a counterpoint to the traditional ballad, creates a fascinating and complex piece of music that showcases Simon and Garfunkel’s creativity and versatility as musicians.
6. The Dangling Conversation
“The Dangling Conversation” is a hauntingly beautiful song that showcases Simon and Garfunkel’s signature harmonies and poetic lyrics. The song tells the story of a couple whose relationship is falling apart, with the lyrics using a series of metaphors to describe their failing connection. The chorus, which features the repetition of the line “And you read your Emily Dickinson, and I my Robert Frost,” is a poignant reflection on the power of literature to connect and inspire us. The song’s sparse instrumentation and haunting melody create a dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly complements the lyrics.
7. Old Friends
“Old Friends” is a nostalgic and wistful song that reflects on the passage of time and the enduring power of friendship. The song features Simon and Garfunkel’s trademark harmonies and intricate guitar work, with the lyrics describing the memories and experiences that bind two old friends together. The chorus, which features the repetition of the line “Old friends, sat on their park bench like bookends,” is a poignant reflection on the power of shared experiences to create lasting connections. The song’s bittersweet melody and introspective lyrics make it a powerful reflection on the joys and sorrows of life.
8. Bridge over Troubled Water
“Bridge over Troubled Water” is a timeless classic that has become one of Simon and Garfunkel’s most beloved songs. The song is built around a simple but powerful melody, with the lyrics offering a message of hope and support to those in need. The chorus, which features the repetition of the line “Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down,” is a powerful expression of empathy and compassion. The song’s soaring vocals and lush instrumentation create a sense of awe and wonder that perfectly complements the inspiring lyrics.
9. Song For The Asking
“Song For The Asking” is a gentle and introspective song that showcases Simon and Garfunkel’s signature harmonies and poetic lyrics. The song features a simple but beautiful melody, with the lyrics describing the power of music to connect and inspire us. The chorus, which features the repetition of the line “Ask me and I will play all the love that I hold inside,” is a powerful expression of the emotional depth and complexity that music can convey. The song’s gentle instrumentation and introspective lyrics make it a beautiful and timeless piece of music.
10. For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her
“For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her” is a hauntingly beautiful song that showcases Simon and Garfunkel’s signature harmonies and poetic lyrics. The song is built around a simple but beautiful melody, with the lyrics describing the power of love and connection to transcend time and space. The chorus, which features the repetition of the line “For Emily, whenever I may find her, wherever she may be,” is a poignant expression of the enduring power of love. The song’s sparse instrumentation and haunting melody create a dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly complements the lyrics.
Samuel Moore 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.
