Het guys, you've played the acoustic version of "The Sound of Silence" from thei debut album, Wednesday Morning 3 AM. This album was actually a commercial failure and led to the duo disbanding; Simon returned to England, and Art Garfunkel to his studies at Columbia University. In 1965, the song began to attract airplay at radio stations in Boston and throughout Florida. The growing airplay led Tom Wilson, the song's producer, to remix the track, overdubbing electric instruments and drums. This remixed version was released as a single in September 1965. Simon & Garfunkel were not informed of the song's remix until after its release. The remix hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for the week ending January 1, 1966, leading the duo to reunite and hastily record their second album, which Columbia titled Sounds of Silence in an attempt to capitalize on the song's success. You should listen to the remixed version also, as it was this version that catapulted them to fame. Could be an "S" to you. :-)
If you want to hear Simon and Garfunkel doing medieval sounding songs, there’s nothing better than Scarborough fair / canticle. Some of the best harmonies you will ever hear!
I love that song. There is a version done by Celia Pavey, a contestant on the Voice in Australia that is simply beautiful. It's just her with her guitar, no harmonies.
Scarborough fair / canticle is a must listen. I agree with the comment about the version from the Andy Williams show, it really brought out the best from all involved.
In the end, with Simon and Garfunkel, you have to let your preconceptions of music go. Paul Simon is one of the best American songwriters and the vocal performance of Art Garfunkel is incomparable. S-tier duo.
I remember...for instance, listening to "Rockin Robin" on my little transistor radio while walking to school..."Long Haired Lover From Liverpool" on the way home from school...not saying those were my favorites, just the first that come to mind. And maybe "The Lion Sleeps Tonight". All had one thing in common, that little black tinny-sounding transistor radio. Everyone had one at the pool all summer long, too. Hate to sign off with a cliche, but it sure would be nice to be young again, huh?
I do remember very well. I'm 79 and heard the best music in those years. Never would have missed it and lucky born in that era. Enjoy as u do the same.
The next S&G song you should do is Scarborough Fair/Canticle. Scarborough Fair is an old English ballad. Canticle is a rewriting of an anti war song by Simon with a new melody written by Garfunkel. The two songs and the two voices all interwoven make for an incredible experience.
I was in high school 1970 to 1974. I remember during one english class we analyzed the words to that song and that is when I came to appreciate it was actually an anti-war song.
I always loved how the final lyric to this song, "The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls In tenement halls and whispered in the sound of silence" was referenced and lampooned by Rush in "Spirit of Radio" when Geddy Lee sang "For the words of the profits were written on the studio wall, concert hall, and echoes with the sound of salesmen." Both brilliant in their own way.
Lampooned means to make fun of. Actually, Peart was paying homage to S&G because all of us knew the reference and thought the change up in lyrics was a clever satire
@@helenespaulding7562 Yes. It's not a lampoon of the lyrics. Peart is making a sly comment on how the music business world devolved from sending out prophetic messages to becoming crap to be bought and sold. Art v. commerce. An old story.
It’s hard to believe that this version was released in ‘64. It was really ahead of its time in terms of composition and production. It never ceases to take my breath away. Just a perfect song. The electric overdub version released in ‘65 is incredible, too. Another song from The Graduate you should react to is “Scarborough Fair/Canticle.” It’s atmospheric and beautiful and full of autumn vibes. It’s also my favorite S&G song.
One of the most iconic songs of any generation. Paul Simon is a genius song writer and he had never let himself be chained to the wall, being limited to one particular style of music. The progression of his writing, both lyrically and musically would make for an excellent documentary which would delve more deeply into his entire catalog of work than the EXCELLENT “Under African Skies” documentary which dealt primarily with the making of his Graceland album. You should now react to Disturbed’s version of Sound of Silence and witness David Draiman’s remarkable interpretation! Either one of official video or the live performance on The Conan O’Brien Show will astound you! I really appreciate and enjoy the way you react to the music you bring. Proud to belong to the A&A family……
Greatest song of all time. You need to listen to the words multiple times to grasp what they are saying about society... and it resonates even MORE today, with people standing next to each other but both staring at their phones and not talking. It is today's society in a song. People hearing without listening...
@@Meandmymirror That's one interpretation of the song, but according to Paul Simon, it's not about dreams. In interviews, he has talked about how he intended for the song to be a lament about lack of genuine connection and communication in the contemporary world. Sadly, things are much worse now, in that regard, than they were when the song was written.
It’s for sure taking about people needing to connect while feeling ever more isolated, but posed as a dream - something disturbing he’s very aware of but not always consciously.
@@pattyliedel6485 Thanks for this! I went back and read the lyrics again, after hearing them for so many years, and your reading of them makes a lot of sense.
I think a song like this is the definition of S-tier. Immediately iconic - covered by musicians of every genre and generation. I've heard this at weddings AND at funerals. It's been played in bars and in churches. It is timeless and relatable to literally everyone who hears it. Not even my favorite S&G song, but it is, in a way, a perfect song. (next: "America", "Only Living Boy In New York")
This song came out when I was still at school and still gives me goosebumps all these years later. It is one of the most beautiful songs ever written with those gorgeous S & G harmonies . It is a classic and has S written all over it!!
In September 1981 Simon & Garfunkel got back together for a concert in Central Park, it was filmed and shown on HBO, and you can watch it on TH-cam. I was there about 30 feet from the stage, in a crowd of over 500,000, something I’ll never forget. When they played this song the entire crowd went silent, it was incredible.
I'll echo others - this is the acoustic version, and gorgeous as it is, it isn't the version that catapulted them to fame. Check out the radio version, it's also amazing.
I was 14. This song reflected all that I saw around me at the time and my own silence was deafening to me. I was too young to fight all that was going on, but I sure wanted to.
Any beautifully written and performed song that still makes your hair stand up nearly 60 years later is not only an S but one of the best songs of all time. This is one of those, IMO.
I LOVE THIS SONG!!! You still need to hear Paul Simon's "Late in the Evening," particularly the version from Simon and Garfunkel's concert in Central Park.
I am surprised it took you guys so long to do this one. Let there be no doubt this was a HUGE song as far as it's influence on later artists and its over all influence on culture.
I believe they said they've heard this song before, possibly not this arrangement, but didn't they say they heard it in a movie? Anyway that may be why they waited to do it. Definitely an S though.
I think this was basically their first song. I had the 45 and listened to it over and over. So beautiful I had never heard anything like it. S tier. Historic actually.
Watching the Concert at Central Park they did some Paul Simon songs together like "Me and Julio". It made me realize that there isn't a song that Simon wrote that couldn't be made better by a touch of Garfunkel.
Both were great harmonizers and traded lead vocals a lot. But in general, when Art Garfunkel had the lead, it was nothing short of spectacular - as in Bridge Over Troubled Water.
The line "The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls and tenements halls" is called back to by Rush in "Spirit of Radio" during the 'reggae' section where Neil Peart wrote "The words of the profits are written on the studio wall, concert halls"
One of the most beautiful duets in the history of pop music. "The Sound of Silence" showcases both of their voices and they blend together perfectly; definitely greater than the sum of Simon and Garfunkel. Extraordinary tune!! ✌✌
One of my favorite S&G songs! It's generally about lack of communication and people not talking to each other, which is extremely relevant today. Disturbed does such an amazing cover to this song, updated for the current times.
Speaking of S&G in medieval times, play Scarborough Fair! It's a traditional English ballad tracing back at least to the 1600s. Their take on it in the 1960s is amazing.
Historically - this is an S tier song - as it hold up immensely - even more so - after 50 years. The Sound of Silence captures the essence of a utopian future where people put their phones to their faces and with ear buds basically ignore each other as they stay in their own little world.
Sound of Silence was the first album I ever purchased. It was 1967 and I was 12 years old. It started me on a lifelong musical journey! We were lucky enough to live halfway between Boston and New York City and we picked up radio stations from both places.
This is one of my ALL TIME FAVORITE SONGS. I firmly believe Paul Simon is SUPERIOR to Bob Dylan as a lyricist. Also, if you want a powerful recent cover, I HIGHLY recommend Disturbed’s version. Paul Simon himself gave it his stamp of approval 👍
I agree that Simon is a much more accomplished lyricist than Dylan. In fact, I consider him to be one of the greatest songwriters of the 20th century. Anyone who can put the word misconstrued in a song (50 ways) and make it work, is a genius.
Gents. I was in Grade 9 when this came out. Our English teacher broke it down for us. This was an S in its day. No doubt about it. It is every bit as relevant today.
This is their first #1 hit, the one that kept them together and making a second album (and another 3 after that). Check out America, Homeward Bound, Scarborough Fair, I am a Rock, Hazy Shade of Winter, and then the whole last album: Bridge Over Troubled Water, Cecilia, Baby Driver, The Only Living Boy in New York. The last is about their impending break-up, and hits hard.
The song America is so iconic that David Bowie opened the post-9/11 concert for NY Firemen/Policemen/Rescue workers with it, just him sitting on stage with a toy electronic piano. Listen to the original, but then check out that performance (on TH-cam).
Their use of dynamics is just amazing for a song that is just two voices and an acoustic guitar. The volume rose and fell with spectacular emotional resonance!
I have an out-of-the-box suggestion for you. I just recently watched the Foo fighters tribute to their drummer. His son played the drums. And boy did he play the drums. What an amazing talent at only 17 years old. I think you should really watch this. Thanks 💜
This takes me back to my youth. About 1988 specifically, my parents listened to S&G a lot when I was a kid. I'm in my 40s now and probably haven't heard this acoustic version for over 20 years, what a breath of fresh air. I think this is so much better than the overdubbed one. Great reaction, thanks!
Yeah ... this was very interesting. I thought I was going to hear the version released on all the pop/rock stations when S&G first came out ... and it's different! I had no idea there was an original, acoustic version. Thank you to the man who wrote the comments below for the clarification.
Glad to hear you guys had an extended session with The Police. They were the biggest band in the world when they stepped away from it all after the Synchronicity album and tour. They passed that title to U2.
.....you two, with your appreciation of a wide variety, and attempts to listen in perspective, relative to the time the music was created, are simply the best. Even when I think "uh oh, this might have pushed the boundaries of their eclecticism too far", you amaze me.... your appreciation of groove, under-stated playing, and most of all LYRICS make me smile, and give me hope for the future of music..... roll'em easy
One of their best songs IMO. Please check out Scarborough Faire. It’s just as beautiful. 😅edit: Speaking of a song coming to the writer in a dream and waking up to hurriedly to write it down Joe Lynn Turner (one of the singers for Deep Purple and Rainbow) said that is how his song Street Of Dreams came to him. There is a very cool rockin’ version by Richie Blackmore’s Rainbow and an acoustic version that I enjoy just as much (Joe Lynn Turner Acoustic In Glasgow Street Of Dreams). Please consider reacting to it. I’d beg if I thought it would do any good. It’s one of my favorite songs and I really think you guys will like it too. ✌️❤️
this version of the song will always be among my favorite songs... I love the Boxer and Bridge over Troubled Waters a bit more... but this song says things to your soul.
I remember seeing them live. Great show. Their last song, on their third encore, was Sound of silence. It was just the two of them on stage. Meanwhile, while they sang this, they bussed the band out of the venue before the crowds all tried to leave
When Neil Peart wrote, “and the words of the profits were written on the studio walls and concert halls - and echoes with the the sound of salesmen” is a direct reference to this song. Peace from Toronto!
Cool, I never heard the original version of the song before. Paul Simon is one of the greatest songwriters (lyrics and music) and musicians in rock history.
There are several more hit S&G songs such as "America" "The Only Living Boy in New York" and "I Am a Rock". However, I think A&A would most appreciate their 1975 hit reunion song *"My Little Town"* because it has a lot more going on instrumentation- and production-wise.
In one of my college poetic literature classes, around 1971, my beautiful female 30-ish professor, who I believe I was crushing on at the time, played a recording of this song in class one day, and then assigned us the task of dissecting the lyrics, along with other contemporary music of that time. Needless to say, I never missed one of her classes.
This acoustic version is great, but most people are familiar with the version that became a hit after S&G had broken-up and their manager or producer added electric guitar and drums. I'd assume A&A would like that version more because of the added instrumentation.
They probably would, although I like it less. The minimalism of the original is haunting. Once you know the other version is a remix to capitalize on the song’s popularity, the additions stick out (not in a good way).
I don't think this song is about sleeping. It's more about the lack of communication that plagues society. "People talk without speaking. People hear without listening" A line like "People writing songs that voices never share" really illustrates the tragedy of people not sharing their creative gifts because of fear of what others will think. Other great lines in this song are" Silence like a cancer grows" for which I picture a married couple drifting further and further apart as they fail to communicate and "and the people bowed and prayed to the neon god they made" which I interpret as the fact that television has contributed to the lack of communication in society. Definitely should be an S tier song.
Het guys, you've played the acoustic version of "The Sound of Silence" from thei debut album, Wednesday Morning 3 AM. This album was actually a commercial failure and led to the duo disbanding; Simon returned to England, and Art Garfunkel to his studies at Columbia University. In 1965, the song began to attract airplay at radio stations in Boston and throughout Florida. The growing airplay led Tom Wilson, the song's producer, to remix the track, overdubbing electric instruments and drums. This remixed version was released as a single in September 1965. Simon & Garfunkel were not informed of the song's remix until after its release. The remix hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for the week ending January 1, 1966, leading the duo to reunite and hastily record their second album, which Columbia titled Sounds of Silence in an attempt to capitalize on the song's success. You should listen to the remixed version also, as it was this version that catapulted them to fame. Could be an "S" to you. :-)
Yep, definitely not the studio/radio version those of us of a certain age are used to.
Nah this version is underrated. People couldn’t appreciate it enough back then but I’m glad it’s gained a cult following in more recent years
Great comments; right on point and I totally agree.
I thought this version sounded a little different from what I'm used to.
I really don’t like the remix. It sounds overproduced and cheesy. This version is so much more intimate and raw, and miles better.
If you want to hear Simon and Garfunkel doing medieval sounding songs, there’s nothing better than Scarborough fair / canticle. Some of the best harmonies you will ever hear!
Indeed. (I always kinda thought of them as wandering minstrels / madrigals...)
Agreed, that's the song to hear next.
The version they perform on the Andy Williams show is truly amazing - with Williams adding a third voice the harmonics go to 11!
I love that song. There is a version done by Celia Pavey, a contestant on the Voice in Australia that is simply beautiful. It's just her with her guitar, no harmonies.
Scarborough fair / canticle is a must listen. I agree with the comment about the version from the Andy Williams show, it really brought out the best from all involved.
In the end, with Simon and Garfunkel, you have to let your preconceptions of music go. Paul Simon is one of the best American songwriters and the vocal performance of Art Garfunkel is incomparable. S-tier duo.
yep - S&G have an S-Tier music catalog
And they both have great voices!
Absolutely!
You correct one of the best
Paul Simon is a national treasure.
'Homeward Bound' is a beautiful classic of theirs, too.
One of the defining songs of the 60s and of all time
Agree, and that is why it is an "S", not an A+
@@kenlight3793 If THIS isn't an "S" , I would hope it's only because "Bridge over Troubled Water" tops it....
Billions have heard this but have a billion listened to it. The best protest song ever written to protest all of those that keep silent. Peace/JT
Alex, the blending of voices is called harmonizing🙂 and their harmonizing was some of the best.
And one of the defining memes of the late 2010s.
"Hello darkness my old friend..."
This is definitely an S tier come on guys 😊
Imagine listening to this song for the first time coming at you over AM radio. How many remember those days?
I remember...for instance, listening to "Rockin Robin" on my little transistor radio while walking to school..."Long Haired Lover From Liverpool" on the way home from school...not saying those were my favorites, just the first that come to mind. And maybe "The Lion Sleeps Tonight". All had one thing in common, that little black tinny-sounding transistor radio. Everyone had one at the pool all summer long, too. Hate to sign off with a cliche, but it sure would be nice to be young again, huh?
I do remember very well. I'm 79 and heard the best music in those years. Never would have missed it and lucky born in that era. Enjoy as u do the same.
The next S&G song you should do is Scarborough Fair/Canticle. Scarborough Fair is an old English ballad. Canticle is a rewriting of an anti war song by Simon with a new melody written by Garfunkel. The two songs and the two voices all interwoven make for an incredible experience.
One of the favorite songs of my entire life
My fav SG song!
A beautiful great song(s)
100% agree!!!!
I was in high school 1970 to 1974. I remember during one english class we analyzed the words to that song and that is when I came to appreciate it was actually an anti-war song.
The older I get, the more I like this song! I’m 67.
Their "Homeward Bound" is worth listening to, as well.
I always loved how the final lyric to this song, "The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls In tenement halls and whispered in the sound of silence" was referenced and lampooned by Rush in "Spirit of Radio" when Geddy Lee sang "For the words of the profits were written on the studio wall, concert hall, and echoes with the sound of salesmen." Both brilliant in their own way.
Thank you for pointing this out to A&A, given their love of the Rush song. Neil Peart's twist on Paul Simon's lyric is deliciously ironic and cynical.
Lampooned means to make fun of. Actually, Peart was paying homage to S&G because all of us knew the reference and thought the change up in lyrics was a clever satire
Thanks for pointing that out. I am a huge Rush fan but didn’t put that together. New twist on Peart’s lyric.
@@helenespaulding7562 Yes. It's not a lampoon of the lyrics. Peart is making a sly comment on how the music business world devolved from sending out prophetic messages to becoming crap to be bought and sold. Art v. commerce. An old story.
yes correct always though that
Simon & Garfunkel - Scarborough Fair is a fantastic song, that when you analyze the lyrics, it becomes so much more powerful.
To me, Sounds of Silence is the epitome of a song that is truly timeless. A haunting melody, and lyrics that take a number of listens to truly unpack.
Scarborough Fair/Canticle is definitely the next to hit, really hits on the medieval vibe and is a masterclass of harmonies.
There's a live version sung with Andy Williams (yes...andy williams) and he fits in perfectly.
Yes. Absolutely. From the same album.
@@jackpearson1110 he does!
It’s hard to believe that this version was released in ‘64. It was really ahead of its time in terms of composition and production. It never ceases to take my breath away. Just a perfect song. The electric overdub version released in ‘65 is incredible, too. Another song from The Graduate you should react to is “Scarborough Fair/Canticle.” It’s atmospheric and beautiful and full of autumn vibes. It’s also my favorite S&G song.
My sentiments, exactly. The film is awesome just for the soundtrack. senior from Canada
One of the most iconic songs of any generation.
Paul Simon is a genius song writer and he had never let himself be chained to the wall, being limited to one particular style of music. The progression of his writing, both lyrically and musically would make for an excellent documentary which would delve more deeply into his entire catalog of work than the EXCELLENT “Under African Skies” documentary which dealt primarily with the making of his Graceland album.
You should now react to Disturbed’s version of Sound of Silence and witness David Draiman’s remarkable interpretation!
Either one of official video or the live performance on The Conan O’Brien Show will astound you!
I really appreciate and enjoy the way you react to the music you bring.
Proud to belong to the A&A family……
Greatest song of all time. You need to listen to the words multiple times to grasp what they are saying about society... and it resonates even MORE today, with people standing next to each other but both staring at their phones and not talking. It is today's society in a song. People hearing without listening...
Or is it about people in your dreams?
@@Meandmymirror That's one interpretation of the song, but according to Paul Simon, it's not about dreams. In interviews, he has talked about how he intended for the song to be a lament about lack of genuine connection and communication in the contemporary world. Sadly, things are much worse now, in that regard, than they were when the song was written.
The lyrics are phenomenal, and that's what takes it from an A+ to an "S"
It’s for sure taking about people needing to connect while feeling ever more isolated, but posed as a dream - something disturbing he’s very aware of but not always consciously.
@@pattyliedel6485 Thanks for this! I went back and read the lyrics again, after hearing them for so many years, and your reading of them makes a lot of sense.
I think a song like this is the definition of S-tier. Immediately iconic - covered by musicians of every genre and generation. I've heard this at weddings AND at funerals. It's been played in bars and in churches. It is timeless and relatable to literally everyone who hears it. Not even my favorite S&G song, but it is, in a way, a perfect song. (next: "America", "Only Living Boy In New York")
and liked/tolerated by fans of most genres, the rockers like it as much as the country crowd
Only living boy is one of the greatest songs ever written
I mean, "Hello darkness, my old friend" is basically a meme at this point.
Paul Simon's "Graceland" album is fantastic.
Diamonds on the Soles of her Shoes is also awesome
@@kelly9876 I'll drink to that!
One of the albums I’d take to the desert island if I could only take 5.
Graceland is more than fantastic. It is a masterpiece.
@@gimmedap Graceland is the one album I'd take, too. It's perfect.
This song came out when I was still at school and still gives me goosebumps all these years later. It is one of the most beautiful songs ever written with those gorgeous S & G harmonies . It is a classic and has S written all over it!!
I'm so glad they GOT this.
Funny he mentioned "medieval"... next up must be Scarborough Fair.
Also must get on America, Homeward Bound, and At The Zoo
Posting before you review, after the song. I'm 57...this, as I'm sure you know, is an EPIC song. I got goosebumps once again, listening to it.
Rate their electric version too. That was the hit version, I think.
Now, you have to do the live version from their reunion concert in Central Park. It's breathtaking.
The Best Version of Sound of Silence Ever!!!!
One of the best concerts ever recorded and released on album.
An ABSOLUTE MUST HEAR Classic,, Simon & Garfunkel "Scarborough Fair/Canticle"...Nuff Said.
This is an earlier version without the band and strings. But it's the words that makes this song great.
Truly iconic…Don’t use that word lightly. Happy Monday!
Ps…I now have the urge to watch The Graduate. For the 50th time.
In September 1981 Simon & Garfunkel got back together for a concert in Central Park, it was filmed and shown on HBO, and you can watch it on TH-cam. I was there about 30 feet from the stage, in a crowd of over 500,000, something I’ll never forget. When they played this song the entire crowd went silent, it was incredible.
I'll echo others - this is the acoustic version, and gorgeous as it is, it isn't the version that catapulted them to fame. Check out the radio version, it's also amazing.
I always thought that Garfunkel sounds like an angel harmonizing with Simon. I still remember the live concert in Central Park. It was amazing!
“El Condor Pasa” is one of their most underrated songs. ✌️
This never fails to give me goosebumps. NEVER.
Imagine hearing this in 1965 as a 17yr old. The song stands on it's own. I'm sorta glad I experienced the music of the 60s and 70s as an "innocent".
I was 14. This song reflected all that I saw around me at the time and my own silence was deafening to me. I was too young to fight all that was going on, but I sure wanted to.
Any beautifully written and performed song that still makes your hair stand up nearly 60 years later is not only an S but one of the best songs of all time. This is one of those, IMO.
Such a masterfully written song, very melancholic. 👍
I LOVE THIS SONG!!! You still need to hear Paul Simon's "Late in the Evening," particularly the version from Simon and Garfunkel's concert in Central Park.
They did the studio version of that song during their live birthday stream a couple weeks ago. Look it up
I am surprised it took you guys so long to do this one. Let there be no doubt this was a HUGE song as far as it's influence on later artists and its over all influence on culture.
Yes, highly influential, and that is why it is an "S", not an A+
I believe they said they've heard this song before, possibly not this arrangement, but didn't they say they heard it in a movie? Anyway that may be why they waited to do it. Definitely an S though.
People always talk about the version by Disturbed, probably seen dozens of reactions to that version. But this for my money is superior in every way.
I think this was basically their first song. I had the 45 and listened to it over and over. So beautiful I had never heard anything like it. S tier. Historic actually.
Art Garfunkel is widely regarded as the best harmonizer ever. The harmonies is what makes Simon & Garfunkel songs the creme de la creme.
Watching the Concert at Central Park they did some Paul Simon songs together like "Me and Julio". It made me realize that there isn't a song that Simon wrote that couldn't be made better by a touch of Garfunkel.
Garfunkel is singing 100% melody here. Simon is handling the harmony.
Both were great harmonizers and traded lead vocals a lot. But in general, when Art Garfunkel had the lead, it was nothing short of spectacular - as in Bridge Over Troubled Water.
He also did all the arrangements
Many people would say Phil Everly. The way he could slide up and down notes in perfect harmony as brother Don sang the lead. Nothing like it!
"I am a Rock" is another great S&G song - I strongly suggest a listen!
Thanks! Love you guys! 😙 😙
The line "The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls and tenements halls" is called back to by Rush in "Spirit of Radio" during the 'reggae' section where Neil Peart wrote "The words of the profits are written on the studio wall, concert halls"
I know that line sound familiar
"And echoes with the sound of salesmen"
One of the most beautiful duets in the history of pop music. "The Sound of Silence" showcases both of their voices and they blend together perfectly; definitely greater than the sum of Simon and Garfunkel. Extraordinary tune!! ✌✌
This song, and it’s impact…. definitely an “S”. Greatness can be beautifully simple.
Agree, thank you!
"Perfection isn't when there's nothing more to add. It's when there's nothing left to take away."
You should check out "Homeward Bound". Great stuff.
Love this one! Also love SCARBOROUGH FAIR by them!
One of my favorite S&G songs! It's generally about lack of communication and people not talking to each other, which is extremely relevant today. Disturbed does such an amazing cover to this song, updated for the current times.
I was not a S&G fan back in the 60's it wasn't till I was in my 40's that I truly appreciate this song. The words say so much.
This song is about as perfect as a song can get. A pure Classic. Relevant and timeless…
Speaking of S&G in medieval times, play Scarborough Fair! It's a traditional English ballad tracing back at least to the 1600s. Their take on it in the 1960s is amazing.
The Everly Brothers as a duo will also land nicely on your ears. Their vocal harmonies remain the standard by which all who followed are measured
I had never heard this version of the song before. Thanks for sharing.
Historically - this is an S tier song - as it hold up immensely - even more so - after 50 years. The Sound of Silence captures the essence of a utopian future where people put their phones to their faces and with ear buds basically ignore each other as they stay in their own little world.
Perhaps dystopian rather than utopian? :) Agreed it is an amazing song though
@@monskiethemonsk6461 Yep
Sound of Silence was the first album I ever purchased. It was 1967 and I was 12 years old. It started me on a lifelong musical journey! We were lucky enough to live halfway between Boston and New York City and we picked up radio stations from both places.
This is one of my ALL TIME FAVORITE SONGS. I firmly believe Paul Simon is SUPERIOR to Bob Dylan as a lyricist.
Also, if you want a powerful recent cover, I HIGHLY recommend Disturbed’s version. Paul Simon himself gave it his stamp of approval 👍
Couldn't agree more, and that is why it is an "S", not an A+
I agree that Simon is a much more accomplished lyricist than Dylan. In fact, I consider him to be one of the greatest songwriters of the 20th century. Anyone who can put the word misconstrued in a song (50 ways) and make it work, is a genius.
Paul will forever live in the shadows of Bob.
One of the best songs of the 20th Century. Still gives me chills. 😎
A brilliant song by Paul Simon. You ought to tackle Homeward Bound next.
Gents. I was in Grade 9 when this came out. Our English teacher broke it down for us. This was an S in its day. No doubt about it. It is every bit as relevant today.
This is their first #1 hit, the one that kept them together and making a second album (and another 3 after that). Check out America, Homeward Bound, Scarborough Fair, I am a Rock, Hazy Shade of Winter, and then the whole last album: Bridge Over Troubled Water, Cecilia, Baby Driver, The Only Living Boy in New York. The last is about their impending break-up, and hits hard.
Scarborough fair
The song America is so iconic that David Bowie opened the post-9/11 concert for NY Firemen/Policemen/Rescue workers with it, just him sitting on stage with a toy electronic piano. Listen to the original, but then check out that performance (on TH-cam).
The list can be expanded to add Kathy’s Song, Bleecker Street, and so many more. My favorite may be America (“…and the moon rose over an open field”).
I like "I am a Rock" and that it references John Donne's "No Man is an Island". Thoughtful.
The most epic lyric from this song that I always remember and hits me for "any time of history" is >"Silence like a cancer grows". SO INCREDIBLY TRUE!
My English teacher in HS had us study the lyrics of this song as poetry. Paul Simon is a poet first, a singer second.
When I think of Simon and Garfunkel, this is the song, this is THE song!
Their use of dynamics is just amazing for a song that is just two voices and an acoustic guitar. The volume rose and fell with spectacular emotional resonance!
Such great harmonies! Especially when you remember this was recorded in one take in the early 60s.
I have an out-of-the-box suggestion for you. I just recently watched the Foo fighters tribute to their drummer. His son played the drums. And boy did he play the drums. What an amazing talent at only 17 years old. I think you should really watch this. Thanks 💜
He’s 15. I wholeheartedly agree on the recommendation.
“Scarborough Fair/Canticle” is another great S&G song. “America” and “The Only Living Boy in New York” are also great.
Hard to believe this version wasn't successful, it's a masterpiece.
My guys favorite band...thanks for playing one of the most emotional songs ever. It's so beautiful.
This takes me back to my youth. About 1988 specifically, my parents listened to S&G a lot when I was a kid. I'm in my 40s now and probably haven't heard this acoustic version for over 20 years, what a breath of fresh air. I think this is so much better than the overdubbed one. Great reaction, thanks!
Yeah ... this was very interesting. I thought I was going to hear the version released on all the pop/rock stations when S&G first came out ... and it's different! I had no idea there was an original, acoustic version. Thank you to the man who wrote the comments below for the clarification.
I had no idea all these years that there was an original acoustic version! Never heard anything but the radio version. I thought it was the only one.
Paul Simon wrote this & it was originally released in 1966. In 1981, they gave a free concert in Central Park. 500,000 showed up.
Glad to hear you guys had an extended session with The Police. They were the biggest band in the world when they stepped away from it all after the Synchronicity album and tour. They passed that title to U2.
As somebody below mentioned, Scarborough Fair Canticle is true Medieval song.
You hit it exactly, for people of my generation this is an S-tier song. It had so much impact at the time it was written.
.....you two, with your appreciation of a wide variety, and attempts to listen in perspective, relative to the time the music was created, are simply the best. Even when I think "uh oh, this might have pushed the boundaries of their eclecticism too far", you amaze me.... your appreciation of groove, under-stated playing, and most of all LYRICS make me smile, and give me hope for the future of music..... roll'em easy
This 100%
One of my favorite S&G songs. Timeless classic!
Definitely S-tier on this one. No question about it, really.
So just a couple years ago Disturbed did a cover of this song. You must react to the live performance on the Conan Show that they did. It's amazing!
Voice of an angel and lyrics of a bard... what could possibly happen but greatness!!!
One of their best songs IMO. Please check out Scarborough Faire. It’s just as beautiful.
😅edit: Speaking of a song coming to the writer in a dream and waking up to hurriedly to write it down Joe Lynn Turner (one of the singers for Deep Purple and Rainbow) said that is how his song Street Of Dreams came to him. There is a very cool rockin’ version by Richie Blackmore’s Rainbow and an acoustic version that I enjoy just as much (Joe Lynn Turner Acoustic In Glasgow Street Of Dreams). Please consider reacting to it. I’d beg if I thought it would do any good. It’s one of my favorite songs and I really think you guys will like it too. ✌️❤️
this version of the song will always be among my favorite songs... I love the Boxer and Bridge over Troubled Waters a bit more... but this song says things to your soul.
I remember seeing them live. Great show. Their last song, on their third encore, was Sound of silence. It was just the two of them on stage. Meanwhile, while they sang this, they bussed the band out of the venue before the crowds all tried to leave
Great reaction guys! I recommend 'Hazy Shade of Winter' it bangs! 🥁✌️
When Neil Peart wrote, “and the words of the profits were written on the studio walls and concert halls - and echoes with the the sound of salesmen” is a direct reference to this song. Peace from Toronto!
"The Only Living Boy in New York" - is my favorite S and G song.
These guys really have a lot of great songs i really like to see you guys reacting to more of their songs
Cool, I never heard the original version of the song before. Paul Simon is one of the greatest songwriters (lyrics and music) and musicians in rock history.
This is an S for me. Incredible.
One of the five most iconic songs of the sixties. Without a doubt this is a S tier song
There are several more hit S&G songs such as "America" "The Only Living Boy in New York" and "I Am a Rock". However, I think A&A would most appreciate their 1975 hit reunion song *"My Little Town"* because it has a lot more going on instrumentation- and production-wise.
In one of my college poetic literature classes, around 1971, my beautiful female 30-ish professor, who I believe I was crushing on at the time, played a recording of this song in class one day, and then assigned us the task of dissecting the lyrics, along with other contemporary music of that time.
Needless to say, I never missed one of her classes.
The single best harmonized vocals in the history of pop/rock
Maybe tied with The Everly Brothers. There was a reason Simon and Garfunkel performed with The Everlys -- they were their inspiration.
Happy you recognized the talent of this duo Garfunkle had a pure voice Simon was the song writer.
Paul Simon is also a good singer … often understated because of Art Garfunkel.
Thanks guys, for listening to this beautiful, iconic song. My suggestion for the next S & G song is "For Emily, Wherever I May Find Her"
IMO the most beautiful song ever recorded.
Love this beautiful, haunting song. Thanks so much for reacting to it!
This acoustic version is great, but most people are familiar with the version that became a hit after S&G had broken-up and their manager or producer added electric guitar and drums. I'd assume A&A would like that version more because of the added instrumentation.
This version is better
They probably would, although I like it less. The minimalism of the original is haunting. Once you know the other version is a remix to capitalize on the song’s popularity, the additions stick out (not in a good way).
I heard this for the first time at my babysitter's in 1968, I was 9 years old and remembered it ever since, big Simon and Garfunkel fan.
I don't think this song is about sleeping. It's more about the lack of communication that plagues society.
"People talk without speaking. People hear without listening"
A line like "People writing songs that voices never share" really illustrates the tragedy of people not sharing their creative gifts because of fear of what others will think.
Other great lines in this song are" Silence like a cancer grows" for which I picture a married couple drifting further and further apart as they fail to communicate and "and the people bowed and prayed to the neon god they made" which I interpret as the fact that television has contributed to the lack of communication in society.
Definitely should be an S tier song.
Right. This song isn't about sleeping. You need to really listen to the lyrics.
A gem song on their third album is “ Patterns”. Haunting and rhythmic with impeccable harmonies.