Bridge Over Troubled Water in 1970 became one of the biggest hits and Simon & Garfunkel's signature song, topping the U.S. and U.K. charts and picking up five Grammy awards in 1971, and Song of the Year and Record of the Year. That album sold like hotcakes. It's a different level song.
I had the pleasure of hearing/ seeing Art Garfunkel [ solo ] , in concert , with one song wonder , Dan Hill , at the Academy of Music , in Philly ........in the late 70 s .........everything a cappella . Garfunkel , with his perfect pitch was terrific .... in a venue built atop an artesian well ........remarkable concert .
These were times when we were deeply in touch with our emotions, especially our love. So much of our music was created for the purpose of moving the world into a more loving, caring and gentler space.
Guess I was born at the right time in the right place - England 1954. The music was such a vital part of people's lives, my mom would have the radio on in the kitchen, listening to the Beatles, the Beach boys, Motown and way more, what technology to have transistor radios, colour T.V's cars even. 69 years later I listen to very little contemporary stuff, relying on reaction videos like this to enjoy it through new eyes.
Paul Simon has been one of the premier songwriters of my lifetime, and Art Garfunkel, well, his is simply the most angelic male voice I've ever heard singing. And, when the one writes a song specifically for the other one's voice and phrasing and range, well, you have this kind of magic, right here. Now, all you have to do is listen to a couple of songs by the Carpenters, and you'll know why I've been saying for so long that, if Art Garfunkel and Karen Carpenter had ever had a child together, the child likely would have been born with the world's most perfect pop/rock/folk singing voice.
I can't help thinking that it would be magnificent. They could flip things upside down and have him singing the higher register parts and her singing the lower register parts.
I dream to dance to this song with my best friend at my wedding one day. We have been very close for years and have been through many difficult times together. They are one of the first true friends that I ever had. Friendship has always been very significant to me, mostly due to my father as he has been with many of his friends since childhood. I have always loved this song as it displays the love of friendship and the significance of platonic relationships. Absolutley one of the greatest songs ever written.
I was blessed to be able to see Simon and Garfunkel live in St. Louis in 2004 during their "Old Friends" tour. What a show, hit after hit, memory after memory. They talked about their early beginnings when they were buskers (musicians on street corners) in Germany and also how their greatest influence was the Everly Brothers.
I grew up with S&G music due to my Parents; I am 54 years. I saw S&G ‘’live’ on reunion tour in 2003, Chicago. They had The Everly Brothers, play with them. The band with them were several musicians who recorded with them in the Sixties. Seriously, when they played “Bridge”, the United Center audience was silent, adoration -until it ended, eruption of emotion from fans! 🥹
When you were in the audience and Art sang this song you got chills. Even without a microphone his voice just soared over the crowd to the back of the concert hall. I will remember that concert forever. (and the guest group was the Everly Brothers who had inspired the early young Simon and Garfunkel) Great show.
Listening to this classic today really got to me. I've just lost a good friend and linedancing teacher from stage 4 breast cancer. Shared many tears😭. Thank you
Sorry to hear that! I hate cancer... seeing these beautiful people put through that pain just isn't right. Sending good vibes your way and hope you feel better 🙏
I’ll always have a soft spot for this song. It was my dad’s favorite song and it was played at his funeral. I love this channel and your interpretations. Keep up the great work 😊
The message is so uplifting and Art NAILS this. Songs with a great message are so rare. Paul Simon is such a great lyricist. I believe this song was Song of the Year in 1970.
Such an iconic song and recording. There is also fantastic live concert footage of Elvis Presley doing this song not long after it was released. It's from a 1970 show in Vegas and he is in the white jumpsuit. He just kills it. I guess Paul Simon went and saw him perform at Madison Square Garden in New York City where he lived and after seeing Elvis perform it, he more or less threw his hands up and said, Well, it's Elvis's song now!
It’s about music being the bridge over troubled water and the miracle is this melody is that powerful. It will come to you when you’re small and bring such an emotional release. Love is all around. Timeless classic.
This was their masterpiece, on their final album. Only five studio albums between 1963 and 1970, each one better than the one before, but not a bad song on any of them. Listen to them all, in chronological order. Paul is a musical genius who went on to a huge solo career, and Art had the voice of an angel.
This has always been a favorite of mine since it's first release. It always makes me tear up and get emotional. Like you said you don't hear this kind of music anymore and that saddens me. This appeals to our better angels. Watching you experience it for the first time again makes me realize just how special and timeless the music we were raised on is. I am enjoying your channel very much. I found you when you did Texas Flood. More Stevie Ray please🎸🎶💯‼️
You're right. COULDN'T be done today. It could be covered, but new stuff like this doesn't get done today. I had the honor of being in an orchestra backing him singing this decades after it came out. Garfunkel was still incredible!
Amazing song, brilliant songwriting. And yes, this song has such a spiritual feel that choirs would sing it in churches back in the day. Epic... classic.
I really like that you dig into the background and meaning of songs....I've learned a lot about songs I've heard all my life....glad ya liked this one but then who wouldn't eh? 😁 .....very emotional tune this....peace
Paul Simon wrote that song while Art Garfunkel was away making a movie. They both were to be in the movie, but Paul Simon's part got cut. When Art Garfunkel returned, they proceeded to finish the album they were working on and Bridge over troubled water was to be the final cut. Paul wanted Art to sing it and Art wanted Paul to sing it, but it fit Art's voice better so he recorded it. Paul regretted Art doing the song and shortly after they broke up, some say it was because Art was gone for so long making the movie " A clockwork orange. "
I never knew Paul was supposed to be in the movie. Wow. I can see how his part (and not Art’s) getting cut could drive the wedge between the two even further.
This came out when I was about 11. I remember it making me cry. Such a beautiful song! It still gives me goose bumps. I think every soul longs to have someone who will have their back like what’s being described here. ❤️
We Americans loved each other in these days. There were no politicians speaking words of hatred back then…we need this music back, or new music like it. People feel love listening to these words & songs like this…Bridge Over Troubled Waters! “ we hated the Vietnam war…the only hate…Nixon wasn’t liked either. Just had to put this piece on here. Thank you, Shawn!👍💜
Over time this song has meant different things. Today, it makes me think of my mother, the silver girl, who has sailed off the Heaven, with us runts sailing right behind...but that her dreams have come to fruition. The beginning is so tender, I am tending now to think it is the voice of the mother. And the son sings the final part. My interpretation anyways. One of the greatest songs of all time.
Yes, that’s part of what makes this song so powerful. It can be interpreted in many different ways and therefore personalized, and even updated over the years, for each listener. I love your idea of the role reversal where mother sings the first part and the son takes her place and sings the last verse to her. That’s beautiful. I think God inspired this song because it expresses his heart for us.
Definitely, check out "The Boxer" and "The Sound of Silence" from the studio albums. Also, "Cecilia", "El Condor Pasa", "Me and Julio in the School Yard", "Homeward Bound", "I Am a Rock", "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" and "Bleecker Street" for starters.
So many great songs from S and G, possibly the best duo of the 60s/70s. Try my personal favourite "Kathy's Song" which Art Garfunkel describes as Paul Simon's best love song.
Arguably, one of the best songs ever written, produced and certainly vocalized. My God. It's just not better than this. To this day! I will gladly stand by these comments(not that anyone cares) just my humble opinion.
An all-time great song, especially the chorus hook which is a one-in-a-lifetime hook. Every time I hear this, I always lament the 3rd verse which production-wise an absolute mess. Just Art and the piano was all they needed.
It's one of those perfect songs. As for a suggestion try The Rain, The Park and Other Things by the Cowsills (take the version from The Best of the Cowsills).
I do not consider that things or songs are perfect...perfection is boring. But this song remains in your soul and memory. this is a masterpiece...if you are not touched by this song, well it's time for a deep psychotherapy...
If Art Garfunkel had never sung another song, he'd be remembered for this forever...50+ years later and his performance still touches people.
And 100 years hence, and 200 …
The power in that ending blew me away the first time I ever heard it and it still does all these years later.
This is such a hauntingly beautiful song. This is the original and none of the covers can hold a candle to this version.
One of the most Beautiful songs Ever Written
Bridge Over Troubled Water in 1970 became one of the biggest hits and Simon & Garfunkel's signature song, topping the U.S. and U.K. charts and picking up five Grammy awards in 1971, and Song of the Year and Record of the Year. That album sold like hotcakes. It's a
different level song.
I had the pleasure of hearing/ seeing Art Garfunkel [ solo ] , in concert , with one song wonder , Dan Hill , at the Academy of Music , in Philly ........in the late 70 s .........everything a cappella . Garfunkel , with his perfect pitch was terrific .... in a venue built atop an artesian well ........remarkable concert .
These were times when we were deeply in touch with our emotions, especially our love. So much of our music was created for the purpose of moving the world into a more loving, caring and gentler space.
Well said my friend!
Guess I was born at the right time in the right place - England 1954. The music was such a vital part of people's lives, my mom would have the radio on in the kitchen, listening to the Beatles, the Beach boys, Motown and way more, what technology to have transistor radios, colour T.V's cars even. 69 years later I listen to very little contemporary stuff, relying on reaction videos like this to enjoy it through new eyes.
This was a huge hit at the time. I think the song won a Grammy back in 1970.
The song & album won 5 Grammys at the 1971 Grammys.
Paul Simon has been one of the premier songwriters of my lifetime, and Art Garfunkel, well, his is simply the most angelic male voice I've ever heard singing. And, when the one writes a song specifically for the other one's voice and phrasing and range, well, you have this kind of magic, right here. Now, all you have to do is listen to a couple of songs by the Carpenters, and you'll know why I've been saying for so long that, if Art Garfunkel and Karen Carpenter had ever had a child together, the child likely would have been born with the world's most perfect pop/rock/folk singing voice.
Now I’m trying to imagine Art and Karen singing a duet.
I can't help thinking that it would be magnificent. They could flip things upside down and have him singing the higher register parts and her singing the lower register parts.
Oh yes, I need to do the Carpenters! Keep hearing about them
This is so simple yet powerful. Just when we need it, he wraps us up and comforts us. A real friend. Love folk rock.
Wonderful reaction~❤
This is every parent's anthem for their child/ren... I always think of my parents and my son when I hear this...
One of my all-time favorite ballads: Simon & Garfunkel's "Bridge Over Trouble Waters." People have cried on this song!!!! Great reactions!
I dream to dance to this song with my best friend at my wedding one day. We have been very close for years and have been through many difficult times together. They are one of the first true friends that I ever had. Friendship has always been very significant to me, mostly due to my father as he has been with many of his friends since childhood. I have always loved this song as it displays the love of friendship and the significance of platonic relationships. Absolutley one of the greatest songs ever written.
So well said!
One of the greatest songs of all time. With a gorgeous production and performance.
I was blessed to be able to see Simon and Garfunkel live in St. Louis in 2004 during their "Old Friends" tour. What a show, hit after hit, memory after memory. They talked about their early beginnings when they were buskers (musicians on street corners) in Germany and also how their greatest influence was the Everly Brothers.
God, I SO miss my big sister. It's been over 6 years since we lost her. She loved this song. I always have to crank it up. 💔
I grew up with S&G music due to my Parents; I am 54 years.
I saw S&G ‘’live’ on reunion tour in 2003, Chicago. They had The Everly Brothers, play with them.
The band with them were several musicians who recorded with them in the Sixties. Seriously, when they played “Bridge”, the United Center audience was silent, adoration -until it ended, eruption of emotion from fans! 🥹
So beautiful. What could be a sad song is actually so uplifting. Timeless.
Paul Simon is a genius .... And Garfunkel voice .... !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My mother owned Simon and Garfunkel’s Great Hits album and every song on it is magic 🌟. Their songs are the best
When you were in the audience and Art sang this song you got chills. Even without a microphone his voice just soared over the crowd to the back of the concert hall. I will remember that concert forever. (and the guest group was the Everly Brothers who had inspired the early young Simon and Garfunkel) Great show.
Listening to this classic today really got to me. I've just lost a good friend and linedancing teacher from stage 4 breast cancer. Shared many tears😭. Thank you
Sorry to hear that! I hate cancer... seeing these beautiful people put through that pain just isn't right. Sending good vibes your way and hope you feel better 🙏
@@ShawnSalvadorithx so much. Music is certainly very powerful and can help with so much
I’ll always have a soft spot for this song. It was my dad’s favorite song and it was played at his funeral. I love this channel and your interpretations. Keep up the great work 😊
@@User_vfjp_927_baltimore_sc thank you 🙏
The message is so uplifting and Art NAILS this. Songs with a great message are so rare. Paul Simon is such a great lyricist. I believe this song was Song of the Year in 1970.
IT MADE SONG OF THE YEAR. 71 OR 72. I CAN'T REMEMBER.
Such an iconic song and recording. There is also fantastic live concert footage of Elvis Presley doing this song not long after it was released. It's from a 1970 show in Vegas and he is in the white jumpsuit. He just kills it. I guess Paul Simon went and saw him perform at Madison Square Garden in New York City where he lived and after seeing Elvis perform it, he more or less threw his hands up and said, Well, it's Elvis's song now!
This was their last Album and I think their best.
The whole album is just stellar
I'd go so as far as to say that this is one of the greatest albums ever produced.
This crescendo is epic! "The Boxer" next, please!
Oh, yes, another iconic song that should be on anyone's list of greatest songs.
Not a bad song on that album, it's one of the great ones of all time. Garfunkels voice is beyond perfection on this one.
That’s right. The whole album is wonderful. Not a second wasted. One of the all time greats.❤
It’s about music being the bridge over troubled water and the miracle is this melody is that powerful. It will come to you when you’re small and bring such an emotional release. Love is all around. Timeless classic.
This was their masterpiece, on their final album. Only five studio albums between 1963 and 1970, each one better than the one before, but not a bad song on any of them. Listen to them all, in chronological order. Paul is a musical genius who went on to a huge solo career, and Art had the voice of an angel.
Great reaction sir. Hope your channel continues to grow.
Absolute perfection!!😁😁🇬🇧
❤Art's beautiful voice, and Paul's beautiful lyrics. Masterpiece ❤
It’s all Art Garfunkel except for the verse that says “ sail on silver girl “ where Paul Simon harmonizes with him 🎤
Epic timeless masterpiece. The Orchestration Of the whole song, epically the second half is incredible. Next....The boxer. Peace ✌️
Beautiful song and great reaction! This is timeless.
Great great song. Others to check out, Sounds of Silence, The Boxer, Cecelia, Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme. Great songs, all big radio hits.
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme is from "Scaraborough Fair".
Add I Am A Rock to that list!
Oh yeah, how could I forget that one, thanks for reminding me!@@suecook1326
Yes, of course you are right!@@daveloboda1769
This has always been a favorite of mine since it's first release. It always makes me tear up and get emotional. Like you said you don't hear this kind of music anymore and that saddens me. This appeals to our better angels. Watching you experience it for the first time again makes me realize just how special and timeless the music we were raised on is. I am enjoying your channel very much. I found you when you did Texas Flood. More Stevie Ray please🎸🎶💯‼️
Simon and Garfunkel wrote and sung the songs of "every man" - you should go to "The Boxer" next if you are going to stick with them on your journey...
Piano by the late great Larry Knechtel.
You're right. COULDN'T be done today. It could be covered, but new stuff like this doesn't get done today. I had the honor of being in an orchestra backing him singing this decades after it came out. Garfunkel was still incredible!
Oh, that's an amazing honor! Congratulations for that! What a special moment in your life I am sure 😄
If im not mistaken, simon and garfunkel were signed to a record contract at 15 yrs old.
Paul wrote them and sang most, with Art's harmonies.
Amazing song, brilliant songwriting. And yes, this song has such a spiritual feel that choirs would sing it in churches back in the day. Epic... classic.
Nice.
I really like that you dig into the background and meaning of songs....I've learned a lot about songs I've heard all my life....glad ya liked this one but then who wouldn't eh? 😁 .....very emotional tune this....peace
Paul Simon wrote that song while Art Garfunkel was away making a movie. They both were to be in the movie, but Paul Simon's part got cut. When Art Garfunkel returned, they proceeded to finish the album they were working on and Bridge over troubled water was to be the final cut. Paul wanted Art to sing it and Art wanted Paul to sing it, but it fit Art's voice better so he recorded it. Paul regretted Art doing the song and shortly after they broke up, some say it was because Art was gone for so long making the movie " A clockwork orange. "
The film was Catch-22
I never knew Paul was supposed to be in the movie. Wow. I can see how his part (and not Art’s) getting cut could drive the wedge between the two even further.
One of the top 5 songs ever written IMO. Check out the live version in Central Park!
One of the top ten or twenty perfect songs of all time!
This came out when I was about 11. I remember it making me cry. Such a beautiful song! It still gives me goose bumps. I think every soul longs to have someone who will have their back like what’s being described here. ❤️
The two most beautiful voices in rock are Art Garfunkel and Linda Ronstadt.
Much agree!
anne wilson.
You need to try The Boxer by Simon & Garfunkel. You'll love it.
This is nearly overwhelming in it's beauty.
Check out 'All I Know' one of Art Garfunkel's solo projects. Amazing vocals
This is definitely a Garfunkel solo but I’m glad you reacted to the studio version because I feel the harmonies with Simon make the song epic
We Americans loved each other in these days. There were no politicians speaking words of hatred back then…we need this music back, or new music like it. People feel love listening to these words & songs like this…Bridge Over Troubled Waters! “ we hated the Vietnam war…the only hate…Nixon wasn’t liked either. Just had to put this piece on here. Thank you, Shawn!👍💜
Brilliant analogy and accurate at the same time
Over time this song has meant different things. Today, it makes me think of my mother, the silver girl, who has sailed off the Heaven, with us runts sailing right behind...but that her dreams have come to fruition. The beginning is so tender, I am tending now to think it is the voice of the mother. And the son sings the final part. My interpretation anyways. One of the greatest songs of all time.
Yes, that’s part of what makes this song so powerful. It can be interpreted in many different ways and therefore personalized, and even updated over the years, for each listener. I love your idea of the role reversal where mother sings the first part and the son takes her place and sings the last verse to her. That’s beautiful. I think God inspired this song because it expresses his heart for us.
My condolences to you
Yessir.. great reaction again..
I got #1 Bob Dylan
#2 Paul Simo
#3,#4,#5 who cares..
In tears by the end😢
A must see and listen is them doing g this live in Central Park, your soul needs to hear that
Definitely, check out "The Boxer" and "The Sound of Silence" from the studio albums. Also, "Cecilia", "El Condor Pasa", "Me and Julio in the School Yard", "Homeward Bound", "I Am a Rock", "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" and "Bleecker Street" for starters.
Check out the Paul Simon song “American Tune” -his coping with Vietnam, Nixon, etc. That song still helps me to cope with some turmoil, today.
I see it as a parent letting their daughter go into the world on her own. You will be there when she asks
OH WOWWWWWWWW, HERE YA GO! 😊 HUGE RADIO HIT THIS WAS!
Another great choice. More. more. more S&G! 'The Boxer', 'The Sound of Silence', 'America' and so many more. A deep dive is required.
Masterpiece! ♥️
Definitely “The Boxer” next
So many great songs from S and G, possibly the best duo of the 60s/70s. Try my personal favourite "Kathy's Song" which Art Garfunkel describes as Paul Simon's best love song.
Thank you.when I was young. I was pushed into plying violin and cello. But the only instrument I loved
Was the cell
O
Arguably, one of the best songs ever written, produced and certainly vocalized. My God. It's just not better than this. To this day! I will gladly stand by these comments(not that anyone cares) just my humble opinion.
During the Jesus movement of the late sixties and the seventies there was a bumper sticker that read Jesus is the bridge over troubled waters.
If you think Art Garfunkel has a special voice, listen to his solo... Traveling Boy
It is a one big spine tingle.
If you like this ballad than you will like "Turn of the Century" by YES which is one of their masterpieces and you can play the song for your wife!
The Boxer ❤
♥
When I hear this song, I can only Praise the Lord Jesus! Hosanna in the Highest!
An all-time great song, especially the chorus hook which is a one-in-a-lifetime hook. Every time I hear this, I always lament the 3rd verse which production-wise an absolute mess. Just Art and the piano was all they needed.
It's one of those perfect songs.
As for a suggestion try The Rain, The Park and Other Things by the Cowsills (take the version from The Best of the Cowsills).
I do not consider that things or songs are perfect...perfection is boring. But this song remains in your soul and memory. this is a masterpiece...if you are not touched by this song, well it's time for a deep psychotherapy...
Next S & G song.... El Cóndor Pasa !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Concert in Central Park is a must listen/view. Has there been a better concert?
I love this reaction, Shawn. So heartfelt. I have a question; what is the website you are reading from at around 8:07?
Heavy duty song today.
Garfunkel was singing Paul Simon writes Garfunkel has the better voice
Paul Simon joined Art during the final verse "sail on silver girl..."
Art’s voice is amazing but I also love Paul’s.
@@terri2494 Paul's voice is ok much inferior to arts m he couldn't sing this song
Ah, man, now you HAVE to listen to "The Boxer".
Paul simon wrote this song and never gave the rights for nobody eles to sing
The Boxer.....please
I hope my late comment on these guys had something to do with this🤔
Wow 1000% better than that Rap Crap,, Sry That's now I feel
Try Elvis live on stage doing this song.