Bridge Over Troubled Water- Simon & Garfunkel | College Students' FIRST TIME REACTION!

[@andyandalex]

Super excited to swing back to S&G! Awesome getting to hear Garfunkel’s voice leading a song! Where do we go next for them?! Cheers all! 🙌🏻🔥

[@leslierosenstrauch5182]

Sound of Silence also you should listen to the cover by Disturbed

[@matthewboufford3509]

Try some Jim Croce (Pronounced: Crow-chee, chee as in see) Time in a Bottle or Operator to start with. Another artist on the folksy side.

[@jimbricker4982]

Scarborough Fair / Canticle, America, Mrs Robinson, I Am A Rock, The Sounds Of Silence. Paul Simon is one of the greatest American songwriters there is.

[@jeffschielka7845]

Sound of Silence has to be next. Considered to be one of their masterpieces.

[@lisamorrison2149]

SG's "Cecilia", and "Mrs Robinson".( the latter was in their soundtrack for the movie "The Graduate".

[@BigToeify]

Garfunkel’s vocal here should be considered one of the greatest of all time.

[@davidmiles533]

I thought ( if possible ) he was better in Central Park.

[@ArielleNaMara]

@@davidmiles533 - I agree completely. Their "Concert in the Park" was truly AMAZING!!

[@pinball1970]

@@ArielleNaMara I hated it, I watched it with mum and she kept telling me off! It doesn't sound the same mum! Shut up and listen!!!

[@fairalways]

@@davidmiles533 I was there. Got there with my friend at 9 AM for the concert in the evening. My son wears the t-shirt with the Fiorucci logo on the sleeve these days. Evidently worth a few bucks.

[@suepringle6642]

And Paul wrote it--- he's one of the best too....but oh wow, this is one for the ages.

[@monkeebun]

Probably the most uplifting song I haver ever heard in my 69 years. Simply beautiful.

[@roykaplan]

I saw Garfunkel in concert and he described when Paul came up to him with this song and said "here, I want you to sing this." Art said it was the greatest gift he ever received.

[@rogerpatton5604]

I'm a 60 year old atheist and this song is a religious experience.. Chokes me up every time.

[@Shawney-jf6kc]

Sounds like you might not really be an athiest. God is a personal relationship. Not you him and some church.

[@randallwilliams6068]

@@Shawney-jf6kc Great response. !!

[@richwalker8898]

@@Shawney-jf6kc Maybe don't decide for people whether they are atheists - possibly the most offensive thing you can do for an atheist.

[@jimcarlson6157]

does someone hand you the collection plate whenever Art does art 🎨?

[@johnhalverson1133]

No matter your religious beliefs, be it none at all, this song gives hope and comfort. May it be a blessing.

[@1ericamat]

Guys I’m a rocker who admits that this wonderful piece of melodic workmanship is not only S tier but quite frankly may be the greatest ‘song’ ever composed.

[@bodhisattva3774]

I've said it before and I'll say it again, Art Garfunkel has the voice of an angel!

[@edvonblue]

A gay angel maybe

[@TheCornishCockney]

Can you imagine him and Karen Carpenter doing a duet back in the day? Would have been heavenly.

[@bodhisattva3774]

@@edvonblue that's redundant.

[@MetaGirl67]

He's said so himself. Which is kind of funny!

[@StudeSteve62]

@@TheCornishCockney Oh yes. Their ranges were actually similar! Karen did record at least one Paul Simon song, "Still Crazy After All These Years", but that one was post S&G. Art is still with us and still sounds terrific...perhaps there could be a digital duet a la the Coles back in the day? BTW re the "gay angel" remark, Art isn't...and BTW Art Jr. sometimes performs with him...sounds very much like his dad and can sing as high at Art Sr. could in his heyday...

[@lxhobson]

For me, this is, hands down, the best song Paul Simon ever wrote and arranged, and the best song Garfunkle ever sang. The emotional impact, alone, makes it the absolute best. After all these years, it still has the power to give me chills.

[@kirkdarling4120]

This is indeed their_magnum opus._

[@IAMCAVE]

This song has been covered at least 50 times by different artist. They all can’t touch the original.

[@jdscottphd]

I sang this at my dad's memorial service. I promise you guys if you play this song when you are truly "down" it will become a deep, deep part of you. I am sure everyone will recommend "Sounds of Silence" but I would also hope you could take a listen to "America" and "I am a Rock." Blessings, friends

[@tracyzimmerman7912]

I sang it in my high school choir 😌

[@Young_Jim]

Tracy Zimmerman - I’ve always considered it to very hymn like, I wish we’d sung this in school instead of the boring stuff.

[@trishagg]

We played The Boxer at my dad's funeral!

[@tracyzimmerman7912]

@@Young_Jim I also sang in latin (religious songs) but there definitely was a good mix.

[@donnabruton7947]

We sang this in my high school choir also. Sound of Silence and you should do Silent Night.

[@billyporter9869]

This song is one of the greatest songs ever written

[@ugaladh]

I always thought this and Roberta Flack's "First Time ever I saw your face" were two of the best songs ever.

[@rkurz9501]

your right , a piece of perfection and greatness

[@photo161]

...Yeah, too bad these guys were too heartless to too appreciate a truly loving friendship...no it's not a church song. It's entirely humanistic.

[@personalcheeses8073]

@@ugaladhThat’s not Roberta Flack’s song. It was written by the British political singer-songwriter Ewan MacColl. For his then mistress, who later became his wife Peggy Seeger.

[@HRConsultant_Jeff]

When Art Garfunkel sang this in concert his voice would travel over the entire arena (even if he didn't have a microphone) It was so quiet and every person was focused on him and words. I have never seen anything like it. In other songs and other concerts the audience wants to join in, but on this one song with this duo, everyone just sits and listens. Incredible and it deserved the multiple Grammy awards. And, it was the last song we got from them. It ended the 60's for me and we moved on to Hard Rock, but this was the defining moment.

[@timmellin2815]

Yes....i got a look at the song list on the musician stand at Art's San Diego Navy Pier concert w/ orchestra.....all the titles spelled out, but the last one....just "Bridge."

[@mindykloster3540]

Yes this is a different genre, BUT Simon and Garfunkel were their own genre! Their music is transcendent. Sounds of Silence is mesmerizing for me! They’ve recorded some songs for the ages!

[@sallyphillips9175]

One of the most beautiful songs ever written and performed. For me, if this isn't S-tier, there are no S-tiers. Just all-around PERFECTION.

[@Topnikko]

Absolutely. It's not the type of song I would listen to very often but I can appreciate just how amazing it is. Giving it an A rating is ridiculous.

[@bleonar3]

David G Fisher I think Andy was going there. “Encapsulated” was the word he used. Seemed like Alex’s comments pulled him down.

[@sherryarflin726]

Agreed

[@scottingram7634]

@@davidgfisher Might be that they don't have a personal connection to this song like so many of us do. So many people have a seminal connection to this song because they heard it at a highly emotional time in their life.

[@zoniekat]

Amen. Shocked.

[@pegthomas8717]

The line “I’m on your side” is so simple yet touching. Honestly, who doesn’t want to hear that when feeling down and out?

[@THX-ov8rv]

"I'm sailing right behind" goes right to the center of my heart.

[@mikehoncho9344]

While I love both of those, "I will ease your mind" always eased my mind.

[@knowhere60]

"Churchy" is funny, as they're two nice Jewish boys from Queens...😉

[@Xerxes2005]

I really like the "Sail on silver girl, sail on by! Your time has come to shine. All your dreams are on their way. See how they shine! If you need a friend, I'm sailing right behind". I choke every time. And the musical transition for that verse is so great!

[@-Chunk]

@@THX-ov8rvyep !

[@kens32052]

1970 Grammy Awards Record of the Year “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” Simon and Garfunkel Album of the Year "Bridge Over Troubled Water", Simon and Garfunkel (Columbia) Song of the Year “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” Paul Simon, songwriter It became one of the most performed songs of the 20th century, with over 50 artists, among them Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Johnny Cash covering the song. It was ranked number 48 on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

[@Antoon55]

Right, it had a huge impact on kids like me all over the world when it came out. It was played all day and everywhere where kids gathered. I never looked at it as a spiritual song though it just blended in with the love, peace, weed and beer :)

[@seankelly7211]

@@Antoon55 Well stated! Another song from that time that always seemed to resonate with me was The Hollies "He Ain`t Heavy, He`s My Brother". Two other songs that DID seem to have a 'spiritual message' were "Spirit In The Sky" by Norman Greenbaum, and "Come Together" by The Youngbloods.

[@philhogan5978]

Definitely a "spiritual song!" " I will lay me down" Same year as "Let it Be" by the Beatles. Two huge spiritual songs.

[@minty_Joe]

Featuring Joe Osborn on bass and Hal Blaine on drums; two of the world famous Wrecking Crew backing musicians on so many hits, from Beach Boys to Phil Spector's "Wall of Sound" recordings to TV theme songs (M*A*S*H, Bonanza, Hawaii Five-O).

[@czechraiser]

Only 48. Missed by twenty or so, at least.

[@jameschar24]

The vocal alone makes it S Tier. Add in the lyrics, which are pure poetry, and then the build-up of the song. It's a production masterpiece. You both struck out with the bases loaded in the bottom of the 9th. 😂

[@gentryxc]

Fifty years plus out and this song still gets to me emotionally every time I hear it. Art Garfunke's voice on this is pure magic.

[@VenusDeMilitant]

The song AMERICA is unbelievably beautiful.

[@Lightmane]

But then they have to listen to the YES cover of it

[@61hink]

@@Lightmane Yes! I've been asking for side by sides like they mentioned they did with All Along the Watchtower. Yes does a great cover of America. I also want them to do Santana's version of She's Not There. They should also do Mrs. Robinson, followed by the Lemonhead's version.

[@Lightmane]

@@61hink Some think their "cover" was terrible, lol, and I think it's awesome that some feel that way about it. I just love what they did with it. JustJP and Dicon Dissectional Reactions both reacted to the original and then the cover and both are great reactions. Check them out. You'll very enjoy it, but let them know I sent you, hah hah 🙂

[@ETBrenner]

As noted above, this song has great lyrics

[@CorrineSunQueen]

We've all gone to look for America. Amen.

[@rhiahlMT]

Cecelia is a song that is so different from their others.

[@sandyshoenberger2697]

yes!

[@pl33]

That song is funky

[@kmorri9]

That song is a freaking jam!

[@aryehbarson]

And from the same album.

[@salinagrrrl69]

1987 Dickson St just after The SCREAMING TREES perform on the stage at Lily's Bar & Showcase outside on the sidewalk people standing around talking (including TREE band members). Some guy runs after a gal yelling, "OH CECELIA!" someone replies, 'You're breaking my ♡heart.' Others join. (TREE members too). After a chouras r 2 ALL SINGING "IN REEEEELAAATION SHE LOVES ME AGAIN.....!" oh about 100 people sing. (Including TREE members).

[@mythicalmountancentralasia6183]

" Sound Of Silence" people have been analyzing those lyrics for close to 60 years.

[@ms.chuckfu1088]

Including our boys from RUSH.

[@jefframsay8399]

Absolutely, Sounds of Silence for S&G, then jump to Boy in the Bubble for Simon in the early 80s . Studio or live in Harare.

[@schrodingerszombie2401]

Studied it in my grade 12 English class, 1972. So, yeah. Fuck I'm old.

[@JenaOhJena]

For what?

[@jeanwatson189]

This could be back-to-backed with the Disturbed cover for the cover duo comparison.

[@GN-jn1ty]

It's like a hymn, and Art Garfunkel's positively angelic voice is perfect

[@dalegreene6839]

When they harmonize ' Sail on Silver Girl' I kind of get goosebumps

[@AugieDoggyDoo]

That line, "Sail on Silver Girl, Your dreams are on the way" destroys me. This song brings out all of the feelings. Amazing song!

[@warrenhughes911]

Lol everytime..

[@bethwitham9934]

I straight up get goosebumps. And tears.

[@beeboppbaby]

It's an ASMR moment

[@grantwatson27yearsago14]

One of the greatest songs ever written.

[@Cboy2023]

Amen!

[@davearonow65]

That's a fair statement.

[@cls6055]

Amen!!

[@timroach9295]

Grant , I agree 1000% I tell my brother a real audiophile who probably has 5 different pressings of bridge that it could be the best song ever written. Check out the bluray of 25th r a roll hall of fame show with them both singing bridge, insane !!!

[@gammaanteria]

Absolutely.

[@CorrineSunQueen]

The day after the Kent State Massacre my 7th grade English teacher marched us outside to a space under trees next to our classroom. The window was open and there was a record player there. She turned it on and played this song. We studied the song as poetry and talked about people getting shot who were marching for peace. It's one of those memories I will never forget.

[@margaretanscombe730]

That’s a really remarkable story, @Corinne SunQueen-thanks for sharing. I was in high school in a small town in SW Ontario, Canada when Kent State happened and I remember it well. (And then of course ‘our’ own Neil Young immortalized that terrible event not long after with the song ‘Ohio’. Such turbulent times.) As a retired teacher myself, I wonder if *your* teacher knew/knows what a powerful experience and memory she left you with. I hope so.

[@betsylyon5499]

Wow.

[@dickiebobradio1304]

@@margaretanscombe730 Such different times. Now no one cares that we're bombing and occupying countries all over the world, as long as the 'right' person is president.

[@jimmierendorf4825]

That's one special teacher!!

[@sheilaholmes8455]

That’s when teachers could do stuff like that.😿

[@jeffschielka7845]

Sound of Silence. S&G's masterpiece.

[@loosilu]

This one!

[@michaellynch5254]

This is a great one too and I know it's just my opinion but I thought bridge over troubled water was their masterpiece.

[@jeffschielka7845]

@@michaellynch5254 I believe they both are.

[@michaellynch5254]

@@jeffschielka7845 I can agree with this.

[@jeffschielka7845]

@@michaellynch5254 Thanks Michael. It's a phenomenal song.

[@johnlange8674]

“Bridge Over Troubled Water” was written by Paul Simon in 1969 and recorded in 1970 with Art Garfunkel. “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” which is one of the most enduring songs from the past four decades, won the GRAMMY Award for Record of the Year and Song of the Year in 1971. It also reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on February 28, 1970 and stayed at the top of the charts for six weeks.

[@davida4022]

A? Talk about damning with faint praise! This is an S-tier song if there ever was one. "Bridge Over Troubled Water" has to be in the top ten of all pop/rock songs ever recorded.

[@TryingToBeKind]

Wow! You're both fired! If this isn't "S" tier, there is none! To each their own, I guess, but on this one, you're just WRONG! ❤️✌🏻✌🏻❤️

[@andyandalex]

@TryingToBeKind Yeah I mean we expressed our A with this is for sure other peoples’ S tier, we want to make sure we’re always honest with you guys with our personal feel for a song, that honesty comes with being ‘wrong’ sometimes.

[@budmiller807]

Without a doubt "S".

[@jeffclaterbaugh6415]

Yeah, I had to fire them for this one too

[@judithpalmermoran7484]

😊

[@Urroner]

When I was a young buck, a local AM station would run a contest where they'd play two songs, the people would, and the winner go on. Usually the winning song would last 2 or 3 days, then this song entered the contest. Two weeks later, they retired the song. Nothing even came close to beating it. For another month, they did the contest and then played Troubled Waters afterwards. The first part of the third verse is my favorite part: Sail on silver girl Sail on by Your time has come to shine All your dreams are on their way See how they shine Oh, if you need a friend I’m sailing right behind The silver girl is Simon's wife who started getting grey hair in her 30s Simon wrote the song, but he insisted Gafunkel sing it on his own. When they did a reunion concert in 1981 in Central Park, 500,000 people saw it live in the park, and this song was simply the pinnacle of the concert. Yeah, A&A really got it wrong here, but they are young and a bit inexperienced , and unlike me, I hope they will learn from such terrible mistakes. BTW, I love your channel. I found it about two weeks ago and I love it. I even got a nice pair of Bose headphones. I thought I'd never ever need a really decent set of headphones. When you would mentioned what you had heard, I realized I had been missing a lot of good music for the last 55+ years. Thank you dudes for that little gift in my life. Only one small criticism for you guys, now my wife wants a pair, and they've got to be better. She knows I can't say no. I just might send you guys a bill for $400 - $500. Friday is just the "end"less friend day

[@douginny]

This is an S TIER! That was not a snare. Drummer Hal Blaine recorded himself dropping snow tire chains on the cement ground to get that percussive sound. Recorded by the famous Wrecking Crew musicians. Same musicians that recorded all the Beach Boys songs.

[@douginny]

From the book, "The Wrecking Crew.... "Of course, contributing something unusual to a Simon & Garfunkel session was hardly a first for Blaine. Some months before, during the recording of “The Boxer” (the first track cut for the Bridge Over Troubled Water album), the duo had decided that they wanted to add an exploding sound as an emphatic point of emphasis between the song’s repeated vocal choruses of “lie-la-lie.” Needing an enclosure that could provide the maximum possible echo, Simon had asked Blaine to fly to New York, where Halee then recorded the drummer whacking a snare while sitting at the bottom of an elevator shaft at Columbia’s 52nd Street studios. This time around, with Simon’s blessing, Blaine stepped out to his car and brought in a set of snow chains from his trunk. Spending the next few hours on his knees in an old microphone storage room, Blaine alternately slammed the heavy-duty galvanized steel links onto the cement floor while being remotely recorded. Drag on one, smack on two, drag on three, smack on four. The brilliant maneuver ended up being incorporated as a dramatic percussion element from the song’s third verse all the way through its epic conclusion."

[@ewoe21]

@@douginny thanks, that’s good stuff.

[@bleonar3]

Heard a rumor that doctors use this song to test for neuropathy. If a person does not display goose bumps when Simon joins in harmony on the last verse, they may suffer from loss of feeling. Backup test is Garfunkel’s last line. Just a rumor.

[@andyo3689]

S Tier! Context...when this song came out. We had just dealt with assassinations, riots...America was burning. THIS SONG Was a rescue

[@libraryfiles4470]

These guys are too young to know this song is an S. Still an S!

[@andrewdoubtfire4700]

Scarborough Fair surely is the next logical step in the S&G exploration.

[@armadillotoe]

That is an eternally beautiful song.

[@charlesharris2749]

That's what I was thinking. There's so many great songs of theirs, but that's the perfect follow up.

[@DreamsSketcher]

Beautiful. But not an original of theirs. A very old song from the Middle Ages.

[@charlesharris2749]

@@DreamsSketcher Yes, dear, I know the origins of the song from the mid 17th century. The S&G version is from an original arrangement by Martin Carthy, who wasn't thrilled to hear it on their album.

[@LaserRanger15]

The live version from the Central Park reunion concert

[@CJBW]

“When evening falls so hard”…imagery, poetry…I envy artists who can write these lyrics!!

[@eclecticapoetica]

I bought this album the day it was released here. Bridge over Troubled Water sends chills up my spine every time I hear it. Such a perfect song. Artie is beyond amazing.

[@suecook1326]

I Am A Rock is another great S&G song, along with Sounds of Silence, Mrs. Robinson. I Am A Rock is probably my 2nd favorite S&G song. Behind this one!

[@armadillotoe]

"Hazy Shade of Winter" also done well by the Bangles

[@bobcunningham5288]

If you want to see and hear how effortlessly Art Garfunkel could sing this song, listen to and watch the version from the Concert in Central Park. Very stripped down, and the his singing is unbelievable.

[@marthapackard8649]

Agreed. It is a wonderful thing to watch.

[@CopperJenny]

I was there at that concert. It was amazing. 500000 people and you could hear a pin drop.

[@darcyspring9002]

Yes this is so good! I watch it all the time.

[@mikehoncho9344]

That's my favorite version, because it's only garfunkel

[@sworntoavenge]

Homeward Bound is an overlooked gem for sure.

[@silvergirl2847]

Love it too

[@chrisdavis1811]

Looove it.

[@ImaDieHrderLkeMyKidBruceWillis]

LOVE that song.

[@keepgrindingup7661]

Art Garfunkel's voice is Simply Sublime on this absolute transcendent musical Journey

[@patrickmichaelrosser6287]

This song seems to be the go to song for funerals in my family. Instant tears when that piano begins...the good kind, remembering friends and family lost too soon. Mrs. Robinson will be the one everyone suggests but "America" is a much better tune and really shows the genius of Paul Simon's songwriting!

[@loosilu]

America is my favorite.

[@barrybouton4395]

Yes covered America.

[@tristramcoffin926]

Yes! My brother from another mother... lol

[@RichHeimlich]

Agreed. You must do Mrs. Robinson for the sake of covering their most popular song, but America is better.

[@darrellsmith4204]

America is top flight. Absolutely.

[@RetNemmoc555]

"America" is the Simon & Garfunkel song I'd save in a fire. I've hitchhiked, motorcycled, Amtrak'd and Greyhounded across America, and it's got to be my theme song for those trips.

[@sallybannister6224]

You got that right. Did Amtrak Soth West Chief from LA to Chicago. Its the only way to do it, or on a Harley,. With Bruce Springsteen!! ✌🏻😊

[@bafalan]

We smoked the last one an hour ago.

[@emilyflotilla931]

I'm with you too!

[@sallybannister6224]

@@emilyflotilla931 😂♥️

[@emilyflotilla931]

Did the Greyhound from Holland, Michigan to Portland, Oregon, hitchhiked all over Southern Michigan to Ann Arbor, hitchhiked to work at a drive in theater in Mansfield, Ct, from Willimantic, smoked and toked. Worked in a bar in SW Michigan that was frequented by lots of bikers...yes, I had a few rides as well. (The Motoguzzi was the greatest, but Harleys were amazing as well) Amtraked to Chicago from Holland, Michigan to Chicago a few times, and from Oakland, CA, to Chico, and had a great motor home trip from there with my best friend from our early teens, (Still Crazy After All These Years) we called it the No Bra Zone trip..America was beautiful! At night fall we were led to our next stops over the high desert skies! This Friday, Feb 5th, 2021 will mark 38 years of continuous sobriety for me. Saw the real America when I saw Crater Lake for the first time at 6 months sober. I graduated from hitchhiking and busses to flying! This song impacts me in ways I never imagined. Even in my alcohol infused haze, it spoke to me. I'm a live and let live old hippie today, and grateful i made it out alive.

[@tccharleston8669]

It's like a guardian angel singing to you in your dreams.

[@joeterp5615]

That’s a very nice take - both captures the message of the song and the dream-like quality of the delivery.

[@silvergirl2847]

Aww beautiful

[@warrenfoil6851]

THE BEST song of my 70 years so far. It's perfect. Art Garfunkel's vocal is flawless, the orchestration beautiful, Simon harmonizes on target. S++

[@joonzville]

I’m pretty sure the message was that the singer is a real friend who will always have your back. It was inspired, from what I’ve read, by Paul Simon’s first wife who was feeling depressed about the first grey in her hair. Simon took the idea of being her friend through thick and thin and made an incredible classic uplifting song. To quote Wikipedia " It was a number one hit on the Hot 100 for six weeks, and it also topped the charts in the United Kingdom, Canada, France, and New Zealand. It was a top five hit in eight other countries as well, eventually selling over six million copies worldwide, making it among the best-selling singles. It became one of the most performed songs of the 20th century, with over 50 artists, among them Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Johnny Cash covering the song. It was ranked number 48 on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time."

[@ricobonifacio1095]

I can see Andy and Alex getting crap faced and listening to this and crying sayin I love you bro, I love you too bro!! a touching moment it would be lol

[@Largeagegaplove]

LOL

[@DG-uh8uv]

LOL, totally

[@michaelgreenberg106]

Let's get out Chris Coumo.

[@gvbezoff]

Alex loves everybody when he's drunk.

[@sfcub-Bill]

"The only living boy in New York", is a must listen. Very ethereal, if you have ever lost someone this song will have you reminiscing and teary eyed in no time!

[@Drummingvulture]

Great tune!

[@brxee]

Great tune and the cover by Everything But The Girl is also great.

[@PerthTowne]

YES! "The Only Living Boy in New York" is an incredible song. But no one ever reacts to it, and that is just amazing to me because it's so terrific. The chorale part, as someone above stated, is ethereal. After "The Boxer," it's my favorite song from the Bridge Over Troubled Water album.

[@stevemercer6976]

Joe Osborn's bass part is sublime

[@SR-vl6ql]

Yes!!!! My favorite Simon and Garfunkel song. Literally you can listen to it multiple times in a row and never get tired of it.

[@larrywilliams1372]

I haven't read through the comments yet but I would suggest "Mrs. Robinson" as your next S&G song. Paul Simon solo songs; "Me Julio Down By The School Yard", "Kodachrome", "Still Crazy After All These Years" and "Loves Me Like A Rock". I would have suggested "Fifty Ways To Leave Your Lover" but Andy has mentioned ned that he has already heard that one.

[@fredhall6525]

I think they will end up preferring Simon solo to S&G. It has more of a rock sound to it. "Kodochrome" is a good place to start.

[@dennisvincent94]

Great list. I would add “Late in the Evening” to it as well as “Mother and Child Reunion”.

[@ravenswoodcovenantchurch9658]

It was actually Alex who said he's heard "Fifty Ways to Leave Your Lover" (and "You Can Call Me Al" as well).

[@larrywilliams1372]

@@ravenswoodcovenantchurch9658 Yes it was. I typed the wrong name.

[@meadish]

Don't forget the song 'Graceland'.

[@mindykloster3540]

Yes this is a different genre, BUT Simon and Garfunkel were their own genre! Their music is transcendent. Sounds of Silence is mesmerizing for me! They’ve recorded some songs for the ages!

[@patriciagoodwin1922]

Hey guys, I couldn't listen until today. My 16 year old beagle boy passed away on Monday. Lots of tears, this song brought goosebumps, tears, all of it. I love seeing Jack listening with you, my beagle boy was always next to me listening to music with me, thank you guys. Beyond beautiful.

[@mikeyates7931]

I'm Truly sorry for your loss 😭 Dogs are WONDERFUL 💖 There's an old Polish proverb that says "No one is really gone as long as they're Remembered"

[@patriciagoodwin1922]

@@mikeyates7931 Thank you so much, beautiful words my friend.

[@mikeyates7931]

@@patriciagoodwin1922 you are very welcome 💖

[@davidlionheart2438]

Why are you thanking them? They pissed on the song.

[@gomezaddams4347]

This song was Simon’s conscious homage to gospel music. Beautiful arrangement, lyrics, and Art’s voice pushes the song into the stratosphere.

[@lreadlResurrected]

Paul Simon has said that the music/melody was inspired by Bach's "O Sacred Head, Now Wounded" as a source of inspiration. Simon is a big fan of gospel music and uses its themes in many of his compositions. See e.g. Loves Me Like a Rock, Gone at Last, etc.

[@jacobpaulson23]

O sacred head now wounded was actually the inspiration for American Tune, not Bridge.

[@lreadlResurrected]

@@Yaktahbay No, I had long ago heard that Simon had used a classical music piece to inspire BOTW. I didn't remember which one, so I got the name from Wikipedia. If it got it wrong, I will happily stand corrected.

[@gregsager2062]

@@lreadlResurrected "American Tune" is a more direct crib from "O Sacred Head, Now Wounded" -- the melody of Simon's song is very close to Bach's -- but you can hear a hint of where Simon got a certain chord sequence (which he altered) for "Bridge Over Troubled Water" in the next-to-last line of "O Sacred Head". The most direct connection to sacred music in "Bridge Over Troubled Water", though, is the title phrase; the 1959 version by the Swan Silvertones of the old black spiritual "Mary, Don't You Weep" contains the ad-libbed line, ""I'll be your bridge over deep water if you trust in my name," that inspired Simon to write "Bridge Over Troubled Water".

[@lreadlResurrected]

@@gregsager2062 Point taken. Thanks.

[@StudeSteve62]

...American Tune by Paul Simon is certainly worth a listen too, along with some of the fine covers of it, such as Eva Cassidy's and not one but two versions by jazz singer Kurt Elling...

[@YouDummy]

Paul Simon has said in the past that he was inspired because he had been listening some gospel groups previously. You nailed this.

[@dago87able]

Gee, I’m glad he has sat in the past, just imagine if he hadn’t, poor Paul XD

[@salinagrrrl69]

Is married to Eddie Brickel

[@erblack2]

This is true. I saw an interview where he said he was engrossed by some gospel group, spending a lot of time listening to them, and he felt that was the inspiration for this song.

[@lorrilewis2178]

@@erblack2 I never knew that and never caught onto any association.

[@YouDummy]

@@erblack2 It was The Swan Silvertones and the song was "Mary Don't You Weep"

[@froggy5935]

Concert in Central Park, 1981. Garfunkel, standing alone in the spotlight, delivered one of the best, live vocal performances ever. The fist pump at the end said it all. It will give you chills.

[@BobbyTheBoxer]

An S-tier song (title track) off an S-tier album from an S-tier folk-rock duo. A true classic.

[@pambarab5506]

This was the first album I ever bought, with money I earned babysitting. I played this song for my wedding dance. My daughter secretly learned it at piano lessons for my birthday present. It's one of the songs in My Life's Playlist.

[@scottingram7634]

That's exactly the kind of personal connection so many of you on here have with this song.

[@medina607]

S & G was my first concert. 15 years old, 1969. My mom had to drive me all the way downtown and then pick me up afterwards.

[@pambarab5506]

@@medina607 I'm envious. I was from (very) small town Texas, and had to wait years to see them.

[@vickicanada709]

Scarborough Fair is one of their most popular, being featured in a movie. Stunning song that evokes strong feelings from the shattered youth of the 60s and 70s.

[@drameday]

Why were the youth of the 60s “shattered”? They had an easier life than any generation before them. Most, but not all were educated in public school systems their ancestors only dreamed of. Most of them did not have to farm or hunt their food, and hope it was enough to get through winter. Unemployment was quite low throughout the 60s. Almost every home had a television. A source of information and entertainment none of their ancestors had. The “shattered” youth of the 60s were simply ungrateful, spoiled, and lazy. Lack of responsibility led to lack of purpose.

[@wallihaley5194]

@@drameday, did you forget that more than 50,000 Americans died in the Vietnam War in the ‘60s?

[@hectorsmommy1717]

@@drameday They were the generation that had every preconceived belief turned on its ear. Vietnam showed the corruption of the government. Civil rights and the way demonstrators had dogs, clubs, and fire hoses turned on them showed that the societal order was a sham. Feminism showed half of the people that they didn't need to be under the thumb of the other half. So many previous generations just kept on and changes happened slowly. For those who came of age in the 60's and 70's, their entire lives were nothing but societal changes.

[@Patrick-ih9cp]

You forgot Mrs. Robinson, from the Graduate.

[@mattiefee]

Vocal masterpiece, writing masterpiece and production masterpiece on this!

[@nanook8721]

I remember when this album came out, and when I first heard Bridge over Troubled Water, I have to say that I don’t think I’ve ever been as touched by a song as I have been by this one. Art Garfunkel is one of the greatest singers, ever, and Paul Simon, one of the greatest poets.

[@georgeperkins4171]

"I am a rock" exceptional lyric of a man whos been scarred by love.

[@loosilu]

Or scarred by abuse

[@jameswormington9978]

Garfunkel's live performance in Central Park, I think, is amazing !

[@kirkdarling4120]

What is astounding about that is he's older and the song is harder for him to sing, but he still sings it beautifully with such casual ease of effort.

[@mikeyates7931]

Veritas

[@chrismartin6370]

Art Garfunkel’s voice is truly an...instrument. Great reaction.

[@loosilu]

The live version from the Concert in Central Park is astonishing. One guy on stage, with his hands in his pockets, delivering this in front of 500,000, and they are SILENT.

[@LaserRanger15]

@@loosilu Just suggested that version too

[@davidlionheart2438]

"Great reaction"??? They pissed on a brilliant song. How is that "great"?

[@esabris2151]

This song is the reason I became a musician. I found the cassette tape buried in my mom's things when I was 7 and it blew my mind. The harmonies, the simplicity, the dynamics, and the orchestration...in the late disco and synth pop early 80s, I had never heard anything like it. No exaggeration, Simon & Garfunkel changed the direction of my life.

[@calgaryjimbo]

I think this is one of the most beautiful, powerful songs ever recorded. It puts a lump in my throat every time and is, in my opinion, the best thing Simon and Garfunkel ever did. Other songs in their collection worth checking out are "Sound of Silence," "Cecilia," "I am a Rock," and "Mrs Robinson."

[@marcjacobscontinued9411]

"Kathy's Song". "For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her".

[@CapAnson12345]

This song was MASSIVE when it came out. Arguably the biggest pop hit of all time.

[@richardsmith5477]

A song you heard but didn’t know they did is "Hazy shade of winter" plus your mom will remember "Scarborough Fair"

[@oslafoirausuebutuoy5457]

Great reaction. Check out "Scarborough fair", please!

[@johnjesberger5676]

Paul Simon is an S-tier songwriter both melodically and lyrically, and while Art Garfunkel is a superb superb vocalist at the time of their hey day it was his arranging that sent some of their greatest songs to almost otherworldly heights. Like this one.

[@Joshuadgog]

Hands down my favorite song by them. Its so emotional and amazing writing. They were masters at writing and singing. Garfunkel's vocals shine so bright. S tier song.

[@scotts6702]

Classic! Only living boy in New york is hauntingly beautiful ... next. they are not rock, no idea how to best classify them. just pure talent

[@gailjohnson5950]

One of the most moving videos I ever saw was Bridge played over scenes of JFK with his children. The last scenes were of him and Jackie boarding the plane for Dallas, then his little son, John saluting his casket at the funeral. Unforgettable.

[@willishackney5227]

You want church music? Try his song “ love me like a rock. He also traveled to South Africa and picked up rhythms there in songs like, “ diamonds on the souls of her shoes” and “ Graceland”

[@jenniferrogers2492]

That’s Paul Simon.

[@rjnuzzi1648]

Masterpiece in every molecule of music history

[@leisastalnaker3790]

The concert in the park, live version is so beautiful, so beautiful. Art Garfunkel has the voice of an angel. Paul Simon had to convince him to sing this song solo for the most part.

[@bobbyowen5879]

Sound of silence or Mrs Robinson should be next by them.

[@patcoats]

next time you hit simon and garfunkel, try 'sounds of silence'...interesting tidbit. neil peart borrowed a line from 'sounds of silence' for 'spirit of radio'...the paul simon lyric is: 'the words of the prophets were written on the subway wall'...the neil peart lyric says: 'the words of the prophets were written on the studio wall'...

[@kennethbenson2931]

Hah! Was going to make that same comment!

[@reinbronsgeest3777]

Neil’s lyric is profits. 😉

[@robmorrison1043]

This masterpiece defined a generation. Its one of the most played,covered and recorded song of all time. The lyrics are like poetry and the production,musicianship and arrangement are all top shelf No grade is high enough. That being said, Elvis live version from his Hilton show may be the definitive version. Paul Simon was at the show and said how can i compete with that.

[@leslierosenstrauch5182]

@Andy & Alex please look into Three Dog Night while you're still in the 70's🙂

[@wicky4473]

Mama Told Me Not To Come would be good.

[@flubblert]

so much good stuff from those guys. "Old Fashioned Love Song", "The Show Must Go On".

[@surlechapeau]

"Shambala", "Joy To The World" and "Black And White"

[@triscat]

@@wicky4473 A Randy Newman tune! I enjoy both versions.

[@HamiltonRb]

Saw the Dogs a few time in my youth, and the song One was my favourite. Chuck’s voice actually reminds me a bit of Garfunkles

[@yoseffeigenbaum9639]

Even a rating of Superior for this song wouldn't be enough. This is arguably one of the greatest songs ever written staying at #1 for 14 weeks! As is the entire album is a masterpiece. If you're looking for sheer S&G beauty you should check out Kathy's song. Mrs. Robinson is iconic as is Sounds of Silence. Paul Simon is a national treasure.

[@TheDivayenta]

One of the greatest gospel songs ever written. It’s on Aretha Franklin’s Amazing Grace album. Not bad for a couple of Jewish kids from Queens!

[@Glenner7]

Am I mistaken, or were you talking about "The Boxer" at the beginning, with a boxer sitting at your feet??

[@loosilu]

I thought exactly the same!

[@snowysnowyriver]

Andy & Alex you might be interested to know that Paul Simon has stated that he wrote Bridge Over Troubled Water for Garfunkel's voice. He knew he couldn't sing it so he tailored it specifically and intentionally for Garfunkel. That's why, no matter what cover version you listen to, it will never ever ever be as good as the original. Also the "silver girl" in the song is Simon's first wife.

[@chrisdelisle3954]

Simon & Garfunkel - America, The Only Living Boy In New York, Cecilia, and The Sounds Of Silence. 1970's Paul Simon - 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover I would love to know what songs affect you emotionally...if this one doesn't do it, what song does it?

[@WickedKingLycoan]

Don’t forget ‘Punky’s Dilemma’ and ‘At The Zoo’.

[@helgar791]

"America", a bittersweet love song to emptiness, loneliness, relationships, the search for oneself, and all things American in this big wide country of ours should absolutely be next. For me their greatest song.

[@Ellenred5257]

Simon and Garfunkel is one of my all time favorites. My sister 10 years older than me left for college. Years later when I was a young teen, I found her albums. One of them being "Bookends" by Simon and Garfunkel. Still one of my faves. The song America 🇺🇸 has always been one of my favorites. Dang I listened to that album over and over. I always think of the movie "Almost famous " which some might think of it as not the best movie, but when the older sister left home and gave her brother her albums and said these will open your mind, he was holding "Bookends "

[@danianderson2268]

It sounds churchy lol. Love you guys. Scarborough Faire is pure vocals and almost transcendent. Give it a look see.

[@sallyphillips9175]

It's not S&G, but y'all need to check out "Late in the Evening" by Paul Simon. Funky as shit.

[@loosilu]

He wrote it about Carrie Fisher!

[@suehaden6103]

@@loosilu think you’re getting mixed up with ‘Hearts and Bones..’ aren’t you?.

[@loosilu]

@@suehaden6103 I must be!

[@ginaluvsrush6093]

This one always gets me emotional...Scarborough Fair next! 😘

[@peterquinones3522]

Go for Mrs. Robinson next! The association for thousands of us of Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft is too strong for you to pass up!

[@alanhynd7886]

How he dropped Anne Bancroft for a milquetoast Kathern Ross remains a mystery to me to this day.

[@peterquinones3522]

@@alanhynd7886 The original prowling cougar! Though Katherine Ross in The Stepford Wives...

[@triscat]

@@alanhynd7886 Well....that look of doubt on his face at the end speaks volumes.

[@albalass54]

The funny thing....my father was transferred from a very liberal college town in Virginia to Atlanta Georgia. They transferred to a small Georgia Baptist church there. And the pastor condemned me and my love of THIS SONG. Thank God my father stood up to the *sshole and my love of Simon and Garfunkel....but for you to think this is "churchy" in a southern Baptist vibe is SO funny and SO ironic for the reaction of the actual Southern Baptist reaction to S&G at the time the song was released, lol .

[@johnmoonitz2968]

Loved this song my whole life . . . the older I get, the deeper it hits me . . . still brings tears to my eyes

[@The.Fake.Adam.Lulich]

Sound of Silence is SO iconic it's still part of Pop culture 60 years after its release

[@stephenhuber1219]

Larry Knechtel got a Grammy for this piano. Larry was a member of The Wrecking Crew and Bread. Larry was in The Wrecking Crew with Leon Russell who had a band with David Gates of Bread.

[@jly74]

Looked thru the comments to make sure Larry was championed. His intro for this song is legendary. He said he sat at the piano after the producer said this song needed an intro. What he played wasn't planned, it was impromptu. Truly an amazing talent. Thanks Stephen.

[@martintayler23]

Yes, the great Larry Knechtel. A superb musician and so unknown to many. Great to see he is not forgotten.

[@gammaanteria]

I always think of his exuberant gospel piano that opens up The Byrds’ cover of “Glory, Glory”

[@jacobin1159]

Anyone who gives this a thumbs down must reevaluate their life.

[@kathyrams]

I disagree! I love S&G but this is one of my least favorite songs. Art Garfunkel’s voice is unbelievably good. The song writing is magnificent. But the production is awful. I hate what Phil Spector did to the song. It’s not organic enough. It to contrived and formulaic. It’s nice maybe the first listen but it wears out quickly.

[@CamiMack5616]

@@kathyrams Music, like film and art, is subjective. Personally, I could listen to this song several times in a row, and not have the emotional effect become the slightest bit numb.

[@DianaJG8]

AGREED! Huge red flag, Hugh!!

[@TwelveDeck]

Why? It's not everyone's cuppa tea and that's fine. You need to be less judgmental.

[@JenaOhJena]

Well here goes...thumbs down. 😎

[@jonathanmurphy3141]

I grew up with S&G, in the 70’s, due to my Parents. When S&G did a reunion tour in 2003, rare, I went up to Chicago from home in Ohio, my Brother got tickets. It was only the 3rd date on the tour. S&G had The Everly Brothers, on the tour, their idols, and I’m a big fan too. Several of the original musicians who played with S&G on record were in the band. At the United Center, a sports Mecca. When they did this song,..the arena was silent, like a devotion, until the song ended -eruption of emotion!!!!

[@JCmacDavid]

Art Garfunkel's singing is as natural as talking for most people. Watch him in concert and you can see how effortless he makes it seems.

[@donosborne7717]

The Sound of Silence, I Am A Rock and Homeward Bound are great songs.

[@mlhesler68]

Backed by some of the best studio musicians this masterpiece won the Grammy for Song of the Year and Record of the Year in 1970.

[@lisamorrison2149]

Hi Jack!! What a gorgeous song. Spiritually, musically, it emits hope and comfort...we all need that right now. Nice job!! ❤

[@lisamorrison2149]

It's different strokes for different folks✌

[@stonebringer1]

🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸 One of the greatest songs. Ever

[@jenuwinedisneyphiles4927]

"Cecilia," "My Little Town" and "El Condor Pasa" Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

[@carolynschmidt7672]

This song for me was a psychedelic experience for me in the late sixties. I could see a huge, angelic figure laying itself delicately down over a shining river. Mind bending.

[@mikeyates7931]

That's really Beautiful ❤️

[@johnk3137]

It was released I n 1970

[@bhudster10]

how was the comedown?

[@perrymalcolm3802]

DUDES! There were FOUR songs back in the day that transcended all the songs, hits, albums and were in a category allll there own. Yesterday Let It Be American Pie and Bridge Over Troubled Water

[@flubblert]

I'd throw "Blackbird" or "Elenore Rigby" into that Beatles mix as well.

[@HamiltonRb]

Everyone has 4 or 5 favourite songs they thought was the greatest, and there is no right or wrong opinion. It is just what songs really hit you hard

[@perrymalcolm3802]

@@HamiltonRb I wouldn’t say they are necessarily my favorite songs. I’m not even referencing “favorites” in any way. Not saying I don’t love them, but more referring to, for lack of better words, something more than timeless (which is already a poor word choice) But yes it is an opinion on one level. But on another it was what I observed not only in my peers, but the adults in my life, radio announcers, people who “hated” rock n roll or pop. They ALL seemed to recognize these songs were in their own category. They touched something deeper than a mere pop song could. They tried to SAY something n more than succeeded. I can’t think of any others like that. But I might be reminded...🙂✌🏽

[@HamiltonRb]

@@perrymalcolm3802 Probably depends your age, where you grew up and your taste in music. I worked in stage management at hundreds of concerts, saw hundreds more in my private life, and don’t think I could pick out 4 or 5 snd say they were the most timeless. My list would change all the time, and depends on who the band was and sometimes who I was with. I can recall going to see Zeppelin and played Stairway to heaven, and saw McCartney & Wings and they played Hey Jude, both songs were epic back then, and now have I heard it so many times I cringe when it comes on. O well, we all like what we like

[@joeterp5615]

I think you are pretty darn close here - especially with the first 3 you listed. I might put Bridge Over Troubled Water on a tier just under those first 3 though... but it is close. Going back to the previous decade, The Righteous Brothers’ Unchained Melody I think has achieved that lofty epic status (although they didn’t write it, so that’s a difference from these others). But it’s funny, because when A&A didn’t know American Pie before reacting to it, I’d say that was the biggest shock I’ve had in listening to hundreds of reaction videos over the last several years. I posted at the time that I thought it was in that same category of Yesterday and Let It Be - songs that EVERYONE - regardless of background or taste in music - knew. But obviously not. Shows how over time things can change more than we realize in terms of general cultural reach of some of the biggest songs ever.

[@go234ko96ts5]

Art Garfunkel"s voice is so precious and hearing him sing BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER bears that out. If you ever get a chance to hear him singing ALL I KNOW from September 11, 1973, than you will really appreciate his voice. Simon & Garfunkel was a great team and this masterpiece proves it. AMERICA, is another great composition by the team.

[@suehaden6103]

The Team? You mean another great composition by Paul Simon as Art never wrote a word...

[@jeffking291]

The 59th. Street Bridge And SOUND OF SILENCE ‼️ 📻🙂

[@SgtSaint420]

This song was played at my grandpa's funeral. I haven't heard the song in years, within the first 5 seconds I was bawling my eyes out. Hard to believe it'll be 12 years this September. R.I.P GLM