Paul Simon

Paul Frederic Simon was born on October 13, 1941, in Newark, New Jersey. He is an American singer-songwriter and actor whose career has spanned over six decades. Simon is known for his work as part of the duo Simon & Garfunkel with Art Garfunkel and for his successful solo career. His early life in Queens, New York, provided the foundation for his musical career.

Simon & Garfunkel, a musical duo consisting of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, officially formed when they were signed to Columbia Records on March 31, 1964. They became one of the best-selling music groups of the 1960s, known for their close harmonies and songs such as 'The Sound of Silence,' 'Mrs. Robinson,' and 'Bridge over Troubled Water.' The partnership emerged from an earlier collaboration in the 1950s.

'The Sound of Silence,' one of Simon & Garfunkel's most famous songs, was released as a single on September 13, 1965. Written by Paul Simon, the song initially went unnoticed until it was re-released with electric instrumentation. It then skyrocketed to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song's haunting lyrics and melancholy melody made it an enduring classic of the 1960s.

'Bridge Over Troubled Water' is the final studio album by Simon & Garfunkel, released on January 26, 1970. The album was a massive critical and commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard charts and winning the Grammy Award for Album of the Year. The title track also became one of their signature songs, known for its powerful vocal performance by Art Garfunkel and musical composition by Paul Simon.

After the breakup of Simon & Garfunkel, Paul Simon began his solo career with the release of his self-titled album 'Paul Simon' in January 1972. The album featured hits like 'Mother and Child Reunion' and 'Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard.' Simon's solo work was marked by eclectic musical influences and artistic innovation, establishing him as a significant artist in his own right.

On September 19, 1981, Simon & Garfunkel reunited for a concert in Central Park, New York City. The free event attracted more than 500,000 people, making it one of the largest concert audiences ever. The concert was recorded and released as 'The Concert in Central Park,' and it revitalized interest in the duo. This concert was a landmark event and showcased their timeless appeal.

Paul Simon released 'Graceland' on August 25, 1986, an album that became one of his most critically acclaimed and commercially successful works. 'Graceland' won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1987 and is noted for its innovative use of African musical influences and collaboration with South African musicians. The album sold millions of copies worldwide and included hits such as 'You Can Call Me Al.'

Paul Simon was awarded the Kennedy Center Honors on December 13, 2002, recognizing his lifetime contributions to American culture through the performing arts. The tribute celebrated Simon's unique ability to blend different musical genres and his profound impact as both a solo artist and as part of Simon & Garfunkel. The ceremony highlighted his artistic achievements and influence on American music.

In 2003, Paul Simon was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist, recognizing his influence and achievements in the music industry. Simon had already been inducted with Simon & Garfunkel in 1990. This honor celebrated his contributions to music as a solo artist, including his innovative songwriting, incorporation of diverse musical styles, and enduring impact on popular music.

Paul Simon performed the final concert of his farewell tour on September 22, 2018, at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, New York. This concert marked the end of what Simon announced as his retirement from touring. The farewell tour highlighted his long and storied career, featuring performances of many of his classic hits, solo and with Simon & Garfunkel, and was a celebration of his legacy.