Paul Simon Wiki: Paul Frederic Simon, born on October 13, 1941, is a renowned American singer-songwriter recognized for his individual music and joint projects, particularly with Art Garfunkel. Becoming popular in the 1960s as part of Simon & Garfunkel, he created exceptional folk-pop songs that reflected the essence of that time.
His career, which has lasted for more than 60 years, covers a wide range of musical genres, including American pop and rhythms from South Africa and Brazil, establishing him as one of the most esteemed songwriters.
Paul Simon Wiki: Early Life and Career Beginnings
Paul Frederic Simon was born in Newark, New Jersey on October 13, 1941, to Jewish parents. He crossed paths with Art Garfunkel at school in 1953, leading to a creative partnership. Together, they penned and performed Hey Schoolgirl as Tom and Jerry in 1957, reaching the 49th spot on the US charts that year.
Paul Simon pursued an English degree at Queens College, briefly delving into law studies before shifting gears to focus entirely on music in 1964.
Simon & Garfunkel Era
During the 1960s, Simon & Garfunkel gained fame with their folk-rock music that defined the counterculture of that era. Their hit songs, such as “The Sound of Silence,” “Mrs. Robinson,” “America,” and “The Boxer” were well-received, with Bridge over Troubled Water (1970) becoming one of the highest-selling albums ever.
Although they disbanded in 1970, they later regrouped for tours, notably the iconic 1981 Central Park concert.
Solo Career Launch
Following his split from Art Garfunkel in 1970, Paul Simon began a prosperous solo career, integrating a variety of influences into his songwriting, such as reggae, Peruvian folk music, and gospel choirs.
Acclaimed Solo Albums
In 1972, Paul Simon launched his eponymous album, which gained both critical acclaim and commercial recognition. The album included tracks such as “Mother and Child Reunion” and “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard”. Following this success, his album There Goes Rhymin’ Simon was released in 1973, featuring popular songs like “Kodachrome” and “Loves Me Like a Rock”.
“Still Crazy After All These Years”
Released in 1975, Still Crazy After All These Years showcased a somber tone following Simon’s divorce. Featuring hits like “Gone at Last” and “My Little Town,” which marked the reunion of Simon & Garfunkel. The chart-topping success of “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” led the album to win Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards.
Exploration of World Music
Paul Simon started incorporating sounds from diverse cultures into his music. He delved into musical customs from different parts of the globe.
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“Graceland” and Global Recognition
Paul Simon released Graceland in 1986, blending South African styles into the music. The single “You Can Call Me Al” achieved success, and the album went on to win the Album of the Year award at the Grammy Awards. To date, Graceland has sold approximately 14 to 16 million copies.
“The Rhythm of the Saints”
Paul Simon released The Rhythm of the Saints in 1990, delving into Brazilian music. The following year, he performed another concert in Central Park.
Later Career and Recognition
Paul Simon composed the Broadway production, The Capeman, in 1998, but it faced criticism. Throughout the 21st century, he kept making music and performing. Some of his later albums include You’re the One (2000), So Beautiful or So What (2011), and Stranger to Stranger (2016).
Paul Simon was awarded three honorary music doctorates and was recognized by Time in 2006 as one of the “100 People Who Shaped the World”.
Retirement From Touring and Recent Work
Simon stopped touring in 2018, yet he kept making music. Seven Psalms came out in May 2023.
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Paul Simon: Personal Life
Paul Simon has been married three times and has four children. In 1969, he married Peggy Harper, with whom he had a son named Harper in 1972. Simon’s second marriage was to actress and writer Carrie Fisher in 1983. Despite divorcing in 1984, they maintained an on-and-off relationship for around ten years.
Since 1992, Paul Simon has been married to singer-songwriter Edie Brickell, with whom he shares three children: Adrian, Lulu, and Gabriel. Adrian has ventured into a solo music career. In 2014, Paul and Edie faced charges of disorderly conduct in Connecticut, yet their relationship has endured.
Paul Simon: Age
Paul Simon is currently 83 years old, with his birthdate being October 13, 1941, in Newark, New Jersey, as of February 2025.
Legacy and Honors
Paul Simon received two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Additionally, he is the recipient of sixteen Grammy Awards and was honored with the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song by the Library of Congress in 2007. Simon is also known for co-founding the Children’s Health Fund.
