@@rogerramjet5214 I believe he sings " Silver Girl". "The final verse was written about Simon's then-wife Peggy Harper, who had noticed her first gray hairs ("Sail on, Ssilver Girl"). " (from Wikipedia).
My Da would come home from the pub on a Friday night and put the record player on. When I was a kid this song only ever meant sorrow to me. Now I'm older I think he might have been the good guy.
I do too. Often times, I prefer the more passionate or dramatic performances. A more kind, gentle approach works better to ease a troubled mind. What produces better results when trying to help comfort a frightened animal or child?
I really like All I Know from his solo days, as well as tons of Simon's solo stuff, but there was something absolutely genius about the two of them together. Paul's lyrics, the harmonies, and that voice of Art's.
More passion?!? This is considered one of the most passionate performances ever. Garfunkel doesn't scream or growl like what you might typically think of passionate. His voice is magical and angelic, and that is what is making the lyrics speak to you. There is an understated intensity. He was singing to a friend.
@@GavinMaGrath I really doubt that. Even though there are accounts of some drug use of Paul Simon, apparently it was weed and LSD once. He didn't do much drugs.
It's not that full-on passionate vocal you'd get in a gospel song. This is the soft, quiet, loving tenderness of someone literally and figuratively putting their arms around you, laying themselves down as a bridge to lift you up and carry you forward when your life has turned to sh*t. So beautiful and emotional. ❤
Art Garfunkel sang the lead in this song. If you want passion in this song listen to Elvis sing it. Fun fact Paul Simon used to be on Saturday Night Live now and then, look him up, he was funny.
This is the first time I've seen someone not be completely blown away by Garfunkel's vocals. There's SO much emotion in it, it's otherwordly. Like, this is what I would imagine angels sounding like.
I was gobsmacked that this guy wasn’t moved. I think he is relatively shallow. He’s kind of surface and simplistic in his takes. I’m glad that he at least tries to listen. He doesn’t always understand what he is listening to, but he does expose people to incredible music, even if he himself doesn’t get it.
One of the most beautiful songs ever written! Art Garfunkel’s voice is stunning & it takes me totally by surprise every time I hear this song. The live video version instantly brings me to tears
I remember as a kid being in school and you'd be walking down the hallway and the kids would hold up the peace sign, and you just nodded because we all knew what it meant and what was going on in the world... Definitely a time of turmoil... People were searching for peace
It keeps me watching to many young'uns also Martha, they bring me great joy. Robert is on a different level than most it seems. I think his mind slows him down sometimes! I hope he learns to relax before stress catches him. Thanks for a great comment, I seem to have found a younger soul sister!
Almost 70 years old and I CRY EVERY TIME; especially, the verse 'when you're down and out, on the street..' I had a very difficult childhood and have lyrics of 'I'm on your side.' Pricesless
A little over 14 years ago I was teaching at a private, military boarding school. It wasn't unusual for teachers and staff to have cadets stay with them during furloughs and breaks if their homes were too far away or too dysfunctional. We had a young lady stay with us whose mother had died when she was 3 years old and her step-mother truly hated her and wouldn't let her go home. She presumed she was just staying with us while in school and thought she was going to be homeless after graduation. We kept telling her she always had a home with us, but she'd been let down so many times, she didn't dare hope. 4 years after first taking her in and halfway through her senior year in college she asked if it would be okay if she changed her name to ours and we legally adopted her. Her "time has come to shine" as she is now happy, has a great job, living with her wonderful partner, finishing up her PhD, and "All her dreams are on their way." But this will always be our song for our "Silver Girl."
Wow, thanks for sharing! It's her step-mother's HUGE loss for rejecting her. I don't understand people like that. Thank you for taking this amazing young lady in! Blessings to you and her always.
My Mother use to Love Simon & Garfunkel and this song is one I grew up to. I never got the real meaning of it till the day my daughter was born and then I understood on the deepest level. It was playing in another room softy in the background after we got to the hospital. (My daughter was born before we could get to the hospital). I really herd these words that evening for the first time, and they resonated through my sole. I cried looking at that little face and my heart sang those words as I shook overwhelmed with emotions. This song will forever have the deepest meaning to me.
Paul Simon wrote this song on guitar, and it took about two days to come up with the piano part, which was played by Larry Knechtel, who later joined the soft rock group "Bread". Simon, Art Garfunkel, Knechtel and the album's producer Roy Halee worked together to transform it into a piano piece. Knechtel, who was best known as a bass player, had a background in gospel music and was able to come up with the gospel piano sound they were looking for. Simon often sang this song at his solo shows; at the last concert of his 2018 farewell tour, he introduced it by saying, "I'm going to reclaim my lost child."
@@ultmiddle4991 if you like this kind of thing, check out the Paul Simon/Malcom Gladwell audiobook. Paul talks at length about so many different interesting stories about his career and gets into many details about his songs...it's a fantastic listen and cemented Paul Simon as my favorite artist ever. Paul McCartney is a close second...
Garfunkel singing it solo in Central Park is absolutely breathtaking. Paul Simon gives him a nod from the corner of the stage basically saying "It's all yours man...do your thing." It is actually more powerful live in my opinion 😊
During the Vietnam War, we cried and cried to this song each time one of our boyfriends, brothers, or uncles were killed. Simon and Garfunkel spoke to our feelings and our hearts during those horrible years of Vietnam. When i think of my teenage years, it always brings up visions of Vietnam and how our lives were impacted.
If you are referring to the beautiful soaring orchestration - the "composing" in this song had very little to do with Simon. Simon came up with the basic melody and lyrics. The gorgeous piano parts are the composition and playing of Larry Knechtel and arranger and composer Jimmie Haskell created the rest.
Listening to this song is like having a soft, warm blanket wrapped around you. Everyone needs to have someone who is a bridge over troubled water in their lives.
Listen, I'm 65yrs old and one of the biggest lessons I've learned is never be afraid to be wrong. Never be worried about being wrong. That'll hold you back. Keep up the great reactions!!! 🙏🇺🇲✌️😎
Art Garfunkel's voice has a purity and simplicity, that I think is perfectly suited for this song. There's a reverent and comforting feeling in the song that definitely vibes like a hymn or a lullabye, and the lyrics are all about having a reliable, unfailing friend even in darkest times. It's relatable to any strong bond of trust we can rely on whether it's a spouse, a friend a parent, or God.
I'm sitting here with tears streaming as I listen. I was 15 when this song came out. There were so many awful things going on then. Vietnam, war protests, domestic terrorism, riots, racial violence. This song was a balm in a troubled time.
It's not about God, faith, or any of that. It's about personal sacrifice for someone you care about. About being willing to help them overcome the hard times, to lay yourself down like a bridge over those troubled waters. It resonates with me deeply.. and I believe if one is a good person, this song has to resonate. If it doesn't, you've never sacrificed anything for anyone.
Art Garfunkel started very quiet on the first verse, went up a bit on the second. Had to laugh when you said you wanted more from the vocal performance, knowing how Art knocks it out of the park on the the final verse that was coming.
The words are the passion of this song. His voice is where it needs to be so that the listener pays attention to the message because the message IS the power of this song. He has a very beautiful voice and he displays its strength near the end.
I feel this song is like a comforting hand being slipped into yours when you need it the most. It's quiet and beautiful and stirs the soul. It is one that resonates in a quieter way. I love it.
Garfunkel sang this perfectly! He starts out with a "small" voice to sing the 1st verse (which also resonates in the 2nd verse's lyrics "...feelin' small"), which then, ultimately, the vocals crescendo to his last notes in the song. It builds with the power of the message of the song and words. So beautifully written and sung!
I love Art’s vocal performance. It’s smooth and strangely comforting for the trouble person he’s singing to, who we might envision as ourselves going through a hard time. No additional juice was needed.
You like "folk" music because those people were WORDSMITHS. Just beautiful lyrics. Cat Stevens' "Peace Train" or "Morning Has Broken" or "Moonshadow" or "The Wind" would be right up your alley. Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young are a group you haven't checked out yet. "Teach Your Children" or "Southern Cross" are outstanding among others. Love to see you on this journey! Peace!
Sail on, silver girl, sail on by Your time has come to shine When I hear this I always think of an older woman who is on the streets. And yes, the tears are there every time I hear this song. Why did I have to click on this one?
Record, Song and Album of the year for 1970. Art Garfunkel sensitive and tranquil vocals are mesmerizing for most of the song and builds to an amazing crescendo towards the ending. Timeless classic
My mother was not religious in the orthodox sense of the word, but she always felt like this song explained how the Lord takes care of his children. I'm not sure if that's what Paul Simon had in mind, but it gave her a lot of comfort in her life, so I'll take it.
The vocals are stellar, full stop. Art G is not a bluesy type emotional singer, don’t expect that. Not his style. But his style is perfect, and so is the song.
The Live at Central Park video of this song is AMAZING. Just Art singing this song in front of hundreds of thousand of people with his hand in his pocket
I was 15 yo when this came out. My family was preparing to move to a new state, and I was having to leave my school and friends behind. My best friend gave me a going away party and gave me this album as a going away gift. I missed my friend so much over the coming years, but this song always brought her close to me. I have tears in my eyes again listening.
Believe it or not my aunt who is 83 loves watching you. It is something she and I share with each other. These old songs of all genres we know and love your reaction to them. Thank you.
After all the years of listening to this song, I still have tears in my eyes. It is an all time favorite of mine. I can still recall the first time I heard it on the radio. I fell to my knees & prayed in thanks to God for His message in this song. I was not in a good place then.
The first time I heard thls song, I was brought to tears. Years later, Paul Simon sang it on the first SNL after 9/11. This was the first time I was able to express my grief after an event too monstrous for tears. Finally, I cried,
An ARCHED bridge may INITIALLY 'raise you toward heaven', but then it brings you back down to earth...which is where we belong, and which was always the intended destination.
This song brings me to tears every time. For me as someone who sang in choir, the build up from the soft, caring voice to the power at the end is spectacular. That buildup is reminiscent of the song “You’ll Never Walk Alone”.
This is my brother's song to his daughter, this is the song they danced to at her wedding reception. It was moving, no one spoke during their dance, it was beautiful
You misunderstood. It was Simon who initially couldn't hear this song for himself, not Garfunkel. Paul Simon is a musical genius. A genre would catch his ear, he would study it, immerse himself in it & then write amazing songs in that style. You should listen to him singing with the S. African group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, on his Graceland album. The entire album is fabulous.
His vocal is a journey. It starts soft and comforting, and by the end (you paused too early) he's giving it his all. And yes, this song has always reminded me of church. It's the supportive accepting all encompassing love of God. The love we should all have for each other.
You must listen to Elvis sing this live in Las Vegas Paul Simon even said "well guess I won't be playing this anymore. Homage to Elvis. Elvis version is VERY POWERFUL He feels every word!!
The most perfect song ever. It’s been my favorite since it came out. I interpret it as a “Higher Power” is always with you to comfort and protect you, even if you don’t acknowledge or realize it.
@@dharma__3So true, with this and so many reviews, he'd need to be a superman to read them all and raise a family! "Time Waits for No One" my friend.... The "Glimmer Twins".
@@markmurphy558 Simon loved to experiment with different music. Garfunkel loved to sing the ballads. I think this was one of the causes of their breakup.
Every generation hears things differently, I guess. This song is, like many gospel tunes, a build. The first verse Art sings in a lighter falsetto… reaching out, perhaps to someone who is really afraid or hurting…that isn’t used to hearing that voice of aid & and inspiration. You don’t barge in on that person with passion. The 2nd verse, Art moves to more of a mix, or chest voice, because the message is starting to take hold, grabbing that hurting soul’s attention, and reinforcing the truth that there is help available. “Silver Girl” is a ref to Simon’s GF… but widely applied is a ref to anyone looking toward the future with trepidation… and ‘sail on’ is just “trust your judgment & navigation” in your life. And in that third verse/chorus, Art is belting, showing the power of belief and trusting in others when you have a need. Art’s vocal is considered one of the best, and the song is one of the most covered in music history. Paul’s reconsideration of Art to sing the song is just his jealousy coming out again. These two liked each other less & less as the years went on. But Paul’s voice would not have done his writing justice on this song, and he knew it.
At 74 and as many times as I have heard this song I still get teary eyed hearing it! Simon said after writing it that : “it’s just a little hymn, it will never be a hit.” To me It is a testament to unconditional love. I will be there for you with no expectations of anything in return.
I'm not ashamed to admit that this song always makes me cry. It fills me with so much emotion, and the piano literally gives me goosebumps every single time. That's the power of music
This song was so immensely popular in the 70's. It helped define a generation. Someone said this song resonates as you get older and I agree with that. I cannot listen to it now without shedding a tear. Thanks for the reaction.
I never had the impression that Paul wished he had sung it because h didn’t like Art’s performance but that he wished he had been the one to sing their breakout song since he’s the master lyricist. Art is a master vocalist and I think he delivered this perfectly. If you listen without interruption, the vocal goes from soft and gentle to a building crescendo which just builds the power of the song.
I always thought about this song as going from comforting someone to actively cheering them up. It starts with them comforting someone (soft, quiet singing tone), to cheering them up (track picks up, vocals get more emotive), to passionately belting and encouraging them that it’ll get better at the end on a big crescendo. One of them timeless songs for sure at leadt
The older you get the more it resonates with you.
So very true.
I've lived through the '60's twice now and this song means more to me than I can say....
@@rogerramjet5214 I believe he sings " Silver Girl". "The final verse was written about Simon's then-wife Peggy Harper, who had noticed her first gray hairs ("Sail on, Ssilver Girl"). " (from Wikipedia).
My Da would come home from the pub on a Friday night and put the record player on. When I was a kid this song only ever meant sorrow to me. Now I'm older I think he might have been the good guy.
@@rogerramjet5214 It's silver *girl.*
No autotune. Just vocal talent.
Garfunkel sings it live at Central Park and it’s flawless.
I actually like how soft and gentle his voice in this song is. It’s like when somebody’s feeling the worst they might need that gentle touch.
Yes it's Garfunkel's angel voice. ❤
@@BarbaraPryor-Smith Who was it said Garfunkel can teach angels sing.
I do too. Often times, I prefer the more passionate or dramatic performances. A more kind, gentle approach works better to ease a troubled mind. What produces better results when trying to help comfort a frightened animal or child?
1000%
Not every song calls for loud bombastic vocals to achieve the desired effect in a piece of musc.
This isn't just a song for the Ages. This is a song for the galaxy.
Love this comment 🇦🇺😎
This song is a showcase of Art Garfunkle's outstanding vocals.
I'd say this song and "The Boxer" are the showcase of these two men's genius in creating and performing absolute masterpieces.
Bright eyes 👀 ❤
giuliogrifi7739,
My favorite, and I think B.P. did play it.
I really like All I Know from his solo days, as well as tons of Simon's solo stuff, but there was something absolutely genius about the two of them together. Paul's lyrics, the harmonies, and that voice of Art's.
More passion?!? This is considered one of the most passionate performances ever. Garfunkel doesn't scream or growl like what you might typically think of passionate. His voice is magical and angelic, and that is what is making the lyrics speak to you. There is an understated intensity. He was singing to a friend.
My thoughts exactly. Maybe if he hadn't wasted his time on "popular" music a kid, he would have heard of the song a long time ago.
Being loud is not equal to passion....he's looking for power when the power is in the solitude and depth intentionally vocalized
There is a school of thought that silver girl is Heroine and the song is descriptive of everything a high brings
@@GavinMaGrath I really doubt that. Even though there are accounts of some drug use of Paul Simon, apparently it was weed and LSD once. He didn't do much drugs.
@@divadaedalus Actually that was part of "Sounds of Silence", not "Bridge Over Troubled Water".
It's not that full-on passionate vocal you'd get in a gospel song. This is the soft, quiet, loving tenderness of someone literally and figuratively putting their arms around you, laying themselves down as a bridge to lift you up and carry you forward when your life has turned to sh*t. So beautiful and emotional. ❤
Amen! Thank you
Yeah, I agree. The song is tender and quiet so the vocals match perfectly in my opinion but, our boy BP needed MORE LOLOL.
@@janyceseahorn4013 DITTO!!!
Art Garfunkel sang the lead in this song. If you want passion in this song listen to Elvis sing it. Fun fact Paul Simon used to be on Saturday Night Live now and then, look him up, he was funny.
Beautifully said!
This is the first time I've seen someone not be completely blown away by Garfunkel's vocals. There's SO much emotion in it, it's otherwordly. Like, this is what I would imagine angels sounding like.
Rap. One word explanation. They're so obsessed with lyrics. No clue about real actual music. No clue about singing.
I was gobsmacked that this guy wasn’t moved. I think he is relatively shallow. He’s kind of surface and simplistic in his takes. I’m glad that he at least tries to listen. He doesn’t always understand what he is listening to, but he does expose people to incredible music, even if he himself doesn’t get it.
Art's voice was just soooo smooth!
Yep, I was shocked. Shocked you don't think the harmony is excellent.
I could have written your post word for word. Its just unbelievable. But he enjoys RAP!?????? Which isn't even music???? Its pure plum crazy.
One of the most beautiful songs ever written! Art Garfunkel’s voice is stunning & it takes me totally by surprise every time I hear this song. The live video version instantly brings me to tears
They are Jewish.
The live is perfection
Yes the one from the concert in central park. It was a masterclass in live singing, absolutely flawless. Breathtaking
Agree 100%
Absolutely ❤❤❤
Art Garfunkel's voice at his most angelic. He's so underrated. Just beautiful.
This was written when MLK Jr. & Robert Kennedy had been assassinated & the Vietnam War was raging.
Raging nightly on the news, with lots of angry rock and protest songs on the radio.
This was written when MLK Jr. & Robert Kennedy had been assassinated by the CIA...
That..
And the Chicago riots spark after Martin Luther King.
Vietnam wasn't a War...It was Never Declared!
It was Police Action!!
I remember as a kid being in school and you'd be walking down the hallway and the kids would hold up the peace sign, and you just nodded because we all knew what it meant and what was going on in the world...
Definitely a time of turmoil... People were searching for peace
Being a 70 year old woman, it is quite entertaining and enjoyable seeing such a young artist discovering these old hits. Thank you!
It keeps me watching to many young'uns also Martha, they bring me great joy. Robert is on a different level than most it seems. I think his mind slows him down sometimes! I hope he learns to relax before stress catches him.
Thanks for a great comment, I seem to have found a younger soul sister!
I agree! Makes me feel good about the world.
Same Martha. It warms my heart.
Almost 70 years old and I CRY EVERY TIME; especially, the verse 'when you're down and out, on the street..' I had a very difficult childhood and have lyrics of 'I'm on your side.' Pricesless
Your going to make me cry
I feel your pain. I know about painful childhoods. I'm 65yrs old and it still affects me. I'm basically a hermit at this point. 🙏🇺🇲✌️😎
Me three ❤❤❤❤❤
He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother also hits this way.
🥺😢
One of the most beautiful songs ever written.
I'm 72 and this song came out in 1970 when I was 18. I still get goosebumps everything I hear this song. Greatest song ever.
Build a bridge and get over it 😂. One of the greatest songs of any generation. Perfection
This is one of the most beautiful songs ever written. Art Garfunkel has a sublime voice and Paul Simon's words are also sublime.
I'm 65 years old and I've been listening to Simon and Garfunkel since I was a teenager. Still love listening to them.
A little over 14 years ago I was teaching at a private, military boarding school. It wasn't unusual for teachers and staff to have cadets stay with them during furloughs and breaks if their homes were too far away or too dysfunctional. We had a young lady stay with us whose mother had died when she was 3 years old and her step-mother truly hated her and wouldn't let her go home. She presumed she was just staying with us while in school and thought she was going to be homeless after graduation. We kept telling her she always had a home with us, but she'd been let down so many times, she didn't dare hope. 4 years after first taking her in and halfway through her senior year in college she asked if it would be okay if she changed her name to ours and we legally adopted her. Her "time has come to shine" as she is now happy, has a great job, living with her wonderful partner, finishing up her PhD, and "All her dreams are on their way." But this will always be our song for our "Silver Girl."
What a great story
This just made me cry with joy. I'm so happy for your Silver Girl
Beautiful. Thank you for sharing. 🙏🏻💜🙏🏻💜
Wow, thanks for sharing! It's her step-mother's HUGE loss for rejecting her. I don't understand people like that. Thank you for taking this amazing young lady in! Blessings to you and her always.
That's just beautiful. She is so lucky to have your family in her life.
My Mother use to Love Simon & Garfunkel and this song is one I grew up to. I never got the real meaning of it till the day my daughter was born and then I understood on the deepest level. It was playing in another room softy in the background after we got to the hospital. (My daughter was born before we could get to the hospital). I really herd these words that evening for the first time, and they resonated through my sole. I cried looking at that little face and my heart sang those words as I shook overwhelmed with emotions. This song will forever have the deepest meaning to me.
Paul Simon wrote this song on guitar, and it took about two days to come up with the piano part, which was played by Larry Knechtel, who later joined the soft rock group "Bread". Simon, Art Garfunkel, Knechtel and the album's producer Roy Halee worked together to transform it into a piano piece. Knechtel, who was best known as a bass player, had a background in gospel music and was able to come up with the gospel piano sound they were looking for.
Simon often sang this song at his solo shows; at the last concert of his 2018 farewell tour, he introduced it by saying, "I'm going to reclaim my lost child."
Thank you for this history ❤
I love the band BREAD AND NOWMKNOW ONE OF THE BAND MEMBERS, LLARRY KNECHTEL@@ultmiddle4991
@@ultmiddle4991 if you like this kind of thing, check out the Paul Simon/Malcom Gladwell audiobook. Paul talks at length about so many different interesting stories about his career and gets into many details about his songs...it's a fantastic listen and cemented Paul Simon as my favorite artist ever. Paul McCartney is a close second...
Garfunkel singing it solo in Central Park is absolutely breathtaking. Paul Simon gives him a nod from the corner of the stage basically saying "It's all yours man...do your thing." It is actually more powerful live in my opinion 😊
You don't need "passion" from any bridge over troubled waters; you just need it to be solid, secure, and safe.
Parsley, Sage,Rosemary and Thyme is a beautiful song. Their harmonies are gorgeous!
I think you're thinking of "Scarborough Fair/Canticle", and yes, I agree with you.
@@cynthiawallace4995 yes, that’s a beautiful song.
An absolute masterpiece! ❤
Scarborough Fair is a very old English folk song. S& G did their beautiful version of it.
I believe that’s Scarborough Fair
During the Vietnam War, we cried and cried to this song each time one of our boyfriends, brothers, or uncles were killed. Simon and Garfunkel spoke to our feelings and our hearts during those horrible years of Vietnam. When i think of my teenage years, it always brings up visions of Vietnam and how our lives were impacted.
Paul Simon, not just a song writer, a full blown composer.
If you are referring to the beautiful soaring orchestration - the "composing" in this song had very little to do with Simon. Simon came up with the basic melody and lyrics. The gorgeous piano parts are the composition and playing of Larry Knechtel and arranger and composer Jimmie Haskell created the rest.
A genius
@@BobSoltis1thanks
Listening to this song is like having a soft, warm blanket wrapped around you. Everyone needs to have someone who is a bridge over troubled water in their lives.
Gafunkel has perfect pitch. His vocal range is amazing...
I always thought Art’s voice was reminiscent to angels. 👼
Listen, I'm 65yrs old and one of the biggest lessons I've learned is never be afraid to be wrong. Never be worried about being wrong. That'll hold you back. Keep up the great reactions!!! 🙏🇺🇲✌️😎
That is the sweetest put down I have ever seen. "Never be afraid to be wrong." You rock, my friend.
Oooo, very very wise words.
You know it. 🙏
But he WAS so right about the gospel feel. (BP, got your back 😂)
Bravo👏🏼Get out there and start making mistakes 🎉
Paul Simon called this “probably the best song I’ve ever written, but it’s for Art. Art has to sing it.”
Probably the most beautiful or one of the most beautiful secular songs you will ever hear.
Paul Simon wrote it.
1981 live in Central Park NYC 250,000+ people you could have heard a pin drop when he did this song.
I heard them at Wembley stadium, the only concert I've been to.
In that performance Art sang it by himself. Paul wasn't even on the stage.
Art Garfunkel's voice has a purity and simplicity, that I think is perfectly suited for this song. There's a reverent and comforting feeling in the song that definitely vibes like a hymn or a lullabye, and the lyrics are all about having a reliable, unfailing friend even in darkest times. It's relatable to any strong bond of trust we can rely on whether it's a spouse, a friend a parent, or God.
Perfectly explained.
Beautifully stated.
I'm sitting here with tears streaming as I listen. I was 15 when this song came out. There were so many awful things going on then. Vietnam, war protests, domestic terrorism, riots, racial violence. This song was a balm in a troubled time.
It's not about God, faith, or any of that. It's about personal sacrifice for someone you care about. About being willing to help them overcome the hard times, to lay yourself down like a bridge over those troubled waters.
It resonates with me deeply.. and I believe if one is a good person, this song has to resonate. If it doesn't, you've never sacrificed anything for anyone.
Over five decades later and this song STILL makes me tear up.....and just to split hairs, I would call it"spiritual" rather than "religious"
Precisely. Agree 💯
I was a teen when this came out. It was so different from rock, but so beautiful. A testament to love and friendship.
Art Garfunkel started very quiet on the first verse, went up a bit on the second. Had to laugh when you said you wanted more from the vocal performance, knowing how Art knocks it out of the park on the the final verse that was coming.
The words are the passion of this song. His voice is where it needs to be so that the listener pays attention to the message because the message IS the power of this song. He has a very beautiful voice and he displays its strength near the end.
I always felt that Art chose the right register and tone with this song because that's how you would want to be comforted, quietly and tenderly.
🎯
I feel this song is like a comforting hand being slipped into yours when you need it the most. It's quiet and beautiful and stirs the soul. It is one that resonates in a quieter way. I love it.
Garfunkel sang this perfectly! He starts out with a "small" voice to sing the 1st verse (which also resonates in the 2nd verse's lyrics "...feelin' small"), which then, ultimately, the vocals crescendo to his last notes in the song. It builds with the power of the message of the song and words. So beautifully written and sung!
I love Art’s vocal performance. It’s smooth and strangely comforting for the trouble person he’s singing to, who we might envision as ourselves going through a hard time. No additional juice was needed.
This song has repaired so many wounded spirits over time.
Paul Simon is a master song writer and composer. Art Garfunkel's vocals are amazing. Together, they are magic.
You like "folk" music because those people were WORDSMITHS. Just beautiful lyrics. Cat Stevens' "Peace Train" or "Morning Has Broken" or "Moonshadow" or "The Wind" would be right up your alley. Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young are a group you haven't checked out yet. "Teach Your Children" or "Southern Cross" are outstanding among others.
Love to see you on this journey! Peace!
I agree Morningside by Neil Diamond is very poingent also.
@@christopherstevenson5470 - Neil is the man.
Father and son is my preferred cat Stevens.
@@Trebor74 - He already reacted to this. :)
Sail on, silver girl, sail on by Your time has come to shine When I hear this I always think of an older woman who is on the streets. And yes, the tears are there every time I hear this song. Why did I have to click on this one?
Record, Song and Album of the year for 1970. Art Garfunkel sensitive and tranquil vocals are mesmerizing for most of the song and builds to an amazing crescendo towards the ending. Timeless classic
@@samueltabo3390 it’s one of the songs you feel deep in your soul
His voice was gentle. A soothing angelic voice. Passion can be tender.
My mother was not religious in the orthodox sense of the word, but she always felt like this song explained how the Lord takes care of his children. I'm not sure if that's what Paul Simon had in mind, but it gave her a lot of comfort in her life, so I'll take it.
Many things I love about this song....I love how he enunciates every word so well.
The vocals are stellar, full stop. Art G is not a bluesy type emotional singer, don’t expect that. Not his style. But his style is perfect, and so is the song.
I can't imagine anyone other than Garfunkel singing this song...
Plenty of emotions in his voice, just different style.
@@susanhendricks843 Exactly. That is my point.
Yes..Paul Simon could have sang this song and it would have been good, but Art’s voice just gives me chills every time.
The Live at Central Park video of this song is AMAZING. Just Art singing this song in front of hundreds of thousand of people with his hand in his pocket
Absolutely, one of the greatest live performances ever in my opinion.
True beauty that day....
I was 15 yo when this came out. My family was preparing to move to a new state, and I was having to leave my school and friends behind. My best friend gave me a going away party and gave me this album as a going away gift. I missed my friend so much over the coming years, but this song always brought her close to me. I have tears in my eyes again listening.
Believe it or not my aunt who is 83 loves watching you. It is something she and I share with each other. These old songs of all genres we know and love your reaction to them. Thank you.
After all the years of listening to this song, I still have tears in my eyes. It is an all time favorite of mine. I can still recall the first time I heard it on the radio. I fell to my knees & prayed in thanks to God for His message in this song. I was not in a good place then.
It’s hard to believe anyone hasn’t heard bridge over troubled water. It’s been a classic for decades and decades.
The first time I heard thls song, I was brought to tears. Years later, Paul Simon sang it on the first SNL after 9/11. This was the first time I was able to express my grief after an event too monstrous for tears. Finally, I cried,
This is my soulmate and wife of 44 years, my Bridge Over my Troubled Waters, saving my life once again. Sail on Silver Girl!
A bridge not only protects you from drowning and gives you access to what you want/need, on the other other side, but it raises you toward heaven.
Sure that isn't stairs,lol?
An ARCHED bridge may INITIALLY 'raise you toward heaven', but then it brings you back down to earth...which is where we belong, and which was always the intended destination.
And it gives you connection to a new place, to safety.
It’s the calm voice of someone who is actually trying to calm another person. Then it becomes passionate.
As a guy who loved hard Rock, Simon and Garfunkel and John Denver was my go to every now and then for my sanity in my teens and early 20s.
Yes! Me too.
And Bread. David Gates voice was also mellow and soothing imo
Art Garfunkle has the voice of an angel and Paul Simon is a lyrical poet beyond compare.
This song brings me to tears every time. For me as someone who sang in choir, the build up from the soft, caring voice to the power at the end is spectacular. That buildup is reminiscent of the song “You’ll Never Walk Alone”.
My senior year high-school teacher in my collegiate English class had us study the lyrics to several songs on this album. What a great teacher he was.
One of the most beautiful songs ever! Art’s voice is amazing! This is their song. Thanks for doing it! 💜✌🏻🫶🏻
This song still makes me tear up and I was in high school when this came out. The ending is a power house. What a damn great song. It never grows old
Art Garfunkel… what a voice !
This is my brother's song to his daughter, this is the song they danced to at her wedding reception. It was moving, no one spoke during their dance, it was beautiful
You misunderstood. It was Simon who initially couldn't hear this song for himself, not Garfunkel. Paul Simon is a musical genius. A genre would catch his ear, he would study it, immerse himself in it & then write amazing songs in that style. You should listen to him singing with the S. African group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, on his Graceland album. The entire album is fabulous.
I remember when Paul went to Africa, it was amazing!
Yes the Graceland album is amazing.
His vocal is a journey. It starts soft and comforting, and by the end (you paused too early) he's giving it his all. And yes, this song has always reminded me of church. It's the supportive accepting all encompassing love of God. The love we should all have for each other.
You must listen to Elvis sing this live in Las Vegas
Paul Simon even said "well guess I won't be playing this anymore. Homage to Elvis.
Elvis version is VERY POWERFUL
He feels every word!!
Elvis did a great version of this!!! Totally agree
The most perfect song ever. It’s been my favorite since it came out. I interpret it as a “Higher Power” is always with you to comfort and protect you, even if you don’t acknowledge or realize it.
In the 80’s this song was played when they were raising money for kids with disabilities or cancer. It always makes me emotional.
Simon is the songwriter
It was the Sarah McLaughlin of its day? I did not know that.
I can literally hear my parents when I hear this song. Yes it's a sing of an era. They spoke to us all.
This is the song you put on when there's a big storm outside, and you curl up with a warm blanket and roaring fireplace.
That sounds lovely.
I have always felt this was a gospel song. The Spirit soothes me with this song when I am in distress.
Paul Simon was the first singer you didn't know on the We Are the World Reaction.
Unfortunately I don't think BP will even read your comment, but I hope he does.
@@dharma__3So true, with this and so many reviews, he'd need to be a superman to read them all and raise a family! "Time Waits for No One" my friend.... The "Glimmer Twins".
Art Garfunkel sings like an angel
One of the greatest songs, and albums, of all time.
Simon small of stature. Talented to the stars.
Simon and Garfunkel were both Jewish, but Simon had been listening to a lot of Gospel Music and wanted to try his hand at the genre
@@markmurphy558 Simon loved to experiment with different music. Garfunkel loved to sing the ballads. I think this was one of the causes of their breakup.
Simon & Garfunkel's Bridge over Troubled Water album won six Grammy Awards in 1971, including Album of the Year.
I still have the vinyl
Every generation hears things differently, I guess.
This song is, like many gospel tunes, a build.
The first verse Art sings in a lighter falsetto… reaching out, perhaps to someone who is really afraid or hurting…that isn’t used to hearing that voice of aid & and inspiration. You don’t barge in on that person with passion.
The 2nd verse, Art moves to more of a mix, or chest voice, because the message is starting to take hold, grabbing that hurting soul’s attention, and reinforcing the truth that there is help available.
“Silver Girl” is a ref to Simon’s GF… but widely applied is a ref to anyone looking toward the future with trepidation… and ‘sail on’ is just “trust your
judgment & navigation” in your life.
And in that third verse/chorus, Art is belting, showing the power of belief and trusting in others when you have a need.
Art’s vocal is considered one of the best, and the song is one of the most covered in music history.
Paul’s reconsideration of Art to sing the song is just his jealousy coming out again. These two liked each other less & less as the years went on.
But Paul’s voice would not have done his writing justice on this song, and he knew it.
Amazing analysis. Thanks 🙏
Great! This is a wonderful description of the song. Fantastic!
Yeah, Paul was definitely jealous of the enthusiastic reception Art received!
Bless them both and a very nice break down on your part.
At 74 and as many times as I have heard this song I still get teary eyed hearing it! Simon said after writing it that : “it’s just a little hymn, it will never be a hit.” To me It is a testament to unconditional love. I will be there for you with no expectations of anything in return.
One of the greatest songs of all time.
I'm not ashamed to admit that this song always makes me cry. It fills me with so much emotion, and the piano literally gives me goosebumps every single time. That's the power of music
i like how over halfway thru the song its left you speechless, a rare sight. as usual im in tears whenever i hear it.
There are some songs that give me goosebumps, this is one.!
This song was so immensely popular in the 70's. It helped define a generation. Someone said this song resonates as you get older and I agree with that. I cannot listen to it now without shedding a tear. Thanks for the reaction.
Kudos to you for listening to this music and appreciating it.
I never had the impression that Paul wished he had sung it because h didn’t like Art’s performance but that he wished he had been the one to sing their breakout song since he’s the master lyricist. Art is a master vocalist and I think he delivered this perfectly. If you listen without interruption, the vocal goes from soft and gentle to a building crescendo which just builds the power of the song.
My grandmother loved this song . She knew what it meant. Now I know. His voice is perfect and soothing.
I was in grade school the first time I heard this, at my babysitter's house. They were huge in the 60's and 70's. This is Art Garfunkel's very best!
I remember the first time I heard this song I believe it was 1970. I brought tears to my eyes. So beautiful. Art Garfunkel what a voice
Simon and Garfunkel's song "America" is an absolute banger. Love it!
Elvis’ last performance, singing this is a must see! Heartbreaking.
His Las Vegas 1970 performance is a must see. I like this version out of any other person doing this song.
I love Elvis version more than the original.
Genius musicians….Simon & Garfunkel ….. beautiful song and beautiful reaction my friend ❤
@@heather2493 I love them! Thank you so much for the extra support 🙏🏽
This is my all time favorite song. It has such meaning.
I always thought about this song as going from comforting someone to actively cheering them up. It starts with them comforting someone (soft, quiet singing tone), to cheering them up (track picks up, vocals get more emotive), to passionately belting and encouraging them that it’ll get better at the end on a big crescendo. One of them timeless songs for sure at leadt