Art Garfunkel

Art Garfunkel was born on November 5, 1941, in Forest Hills, Queens, New York City. He would grow up to become one-half of the famous folk rock duo Simon & Garfunkel, alongside Paul Simon. Their music would leave a lasting impact on the genre and shape the future of popular music. Garfunkel's distinct voice and harmony played a crucial role in the duo's success. Some of their most famous songs include 'The Sound of Silence', 'Mrs. Robinson', and 'Bridge Over Troubled Water.'

In 1953, Art Garfunkel met Paul Simon at Forest Hills Junior Elementary School, beginning one of the most iconic partnerships in music history. They started singing together in school performances and developed a friendship based on their mutual love for music. Their partnership, initially performing as 'Tom & Jerry', would eventually lead to the formation of the duo Simon & Garfunkel, becoming one of the best-selling music groups of the 1960s.

Simon & Garfunkel released their debut studio album 'Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.' in March 1964. This album, originally a commercial failure, later became a classic after the success of the single 'The Sound of Silence'. The duo's unique blend of folk rock and harmony set them apart from other artists and they quickly gained a devoted following. Their distinctive sound and poignant lyrics resonated with the changing social landscape of the 1960s.

On January 10, 1966, the single 'The Sound of Silence' by Simon & Garfunkel reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This surprising achievement followed the song's remix by producer Tom Wilson, who added electric instruments to the original acoustic recording. The song became an anthem of the 1960s, symbolizing the decade's social upheaval and the struggles of communication in an increasingly disconnected world.

Simon & Garfunkel's album 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' was released on January 26, 1970, and became one of their most successful works. It featured the iconic title track sung by Garfunkel, which highlighted his vocal range and emotional delivery. The album went on to receive several Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, and is considered one of the greatest albums of all time. It marked the culmination of the duo's collaboration, solidifying their legacy in popular music.

In November 1970, Simon & Garfunkel announced their break up, shocking their fans worldwide. The decision came despite the immense success of their album 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'. The duo cited personal differences and a desire to pursue solo careers as key factors in their decision. Although they reunited periodically for special performances, this breakup marked the end of an era characterized by their harmonious and influential music.

Art Garfunkel released his debut solo album 'Angel Clare' in October 1973, proving himself as a standalone artist. The album included singles such as 'All I Know' and showcased Garfunkel's distinctive voice outside the shadow of Simon & Garfunkel. Critics praised the album for its production and Garfunkel's vocal performances, establishing him as a successful solo artist and showing his versatility beyond the duo that made him famous.

On September 19, 1981, Simon & Garfunkel reunited for a free concert in Central Park, attracting more than 500,000 people. This historic event was a highlight of their sporadic reunions and showcased their enduring popularity. The concert was recorded and released as a live album, generating significant sales and critical acclaim. It remains one of the most celebrated live performances, remembered for its representation of their enduring musical partnership.

Simon & Garfunkel were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on January 15, 1990, in recognition of their significant contribution to music and culture. Their induction ceremony celebrated their innovation in songwriting and their influence on generations of artists. The duo's harmonious vocals and lyrical depth left a profound impact on the evolution of folk rock and popular music, cementing their status as legends.

Art Garfunkel, along with Paul Simon, received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award on February 23, 2003. This recognition honored their illustrious career as Simon & Garfunkel and their contributions to music history. Their exceptional harmonies and storytelling through music touched millions worldwide and continued to influence musicians across decades. The award acknowledged their enduring impact and their legacy as icons of the music industry.

Art Garfunkel published his memoir titled 'What Is It All But Luminous: Notes from an Underground Man' on September 16, 2015. In this book, he reflects on his life, career, and the challenges of his partnership with Paul Simon. The memoir provides an introspective look into his thoughts on fame, music, and his spiritual journey. Garfunkel's eloquent writing offers fans and readers a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics of his life and artistic process.