Arthur Ira Garfunkel was born on November 5, 1941, in Forest Hills, Queens, New York. He became famous as half of the duo Simon & Garfunkel. His career as a singer-songwriter has lasted over 60 years, covering music, acting, and poetry.
His unique tenor voice and harmonies with Paul Simon made a sound that defined a generation. They created hits like “The Sound of Silence” and “Bridge over Troubled Water.” Garfunkel has won eight Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award. He was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990.
Garfunkel’s work with Paul Simon in the 1960s captured the spirit of a thoughtful generation. Their music touched hearts across the United States and beyond. As an artist, Garfunkel has explored many creative paths, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry and popular culture.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Art Garfunkel, the famous folk musician, found his love for singing early on. He grew up in Forest Hills, Queens. Born on November 5, 1941, his childhood was filled with music. He also formed a lifelong bond with his friend, Paul Simon.
Childhood in Forest Hills, New York
Garfunkel grew up in a middle-class family in Queens. As a young boy, he loved singing. He worked hard to perfect his voice and find his unique sound.
The Formation of Tom & Jerry
In the sixth grade, Garfunkel met Simon in a school play. They shared a love for music. In 1956, they started “Tom & Jerry,” inspired by the Everly Brothers.
Early Influences on His Music
Garfunkel’s father saw his talent and gave him a wire recorder. This helped him practice and improve his singing. His first big performance was at his bar mitzvah in 1954, where he sang for over four hours.
Their first hit, “Hey, Schoolgirl,” came in 1957. It was a success, reaching #49 on the charts. This marked the start of Garfunkel’s rise to fame.
Rise to Fame with Simon & Garfunkel
Art Garfunkel teamed up with Paul Simon to form Simon & Garfunkel. They became stars in the 1960s folk-rock scene. Their first album, “Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.,” didn’t do well at first.
But a remix of “The Sound of Silence” changed everything. It shot them to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This was a major turning point for them.
Simon & Garfunkel made more albums that changed music. They released “Sounds of Silence,” “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme,” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” Garfunkel’s work as a vocal arranger added a special touch to their songs.
Their music was a big part of the 1960s culture. Hits like “Mrs. Robinson” were featured in “The Graduate.” This made their music unforgettable.
“The Sound of Silence” became the No. 1 single in America in late ’65, and by 1966, the nation was in societal and political upheaval; Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme was released, and the duo’s music was absorbed into the new American vernacular.
Even though they were huge stars, Simon & Garfunkel broke up in 1970. But they got back together sometimes for music and shows. Their songs still touch people’s hearts, showing their lasting impact.
Solo Career and Musical Evolution
After Simon & Garfunkel split, Art Garfunkel started a solo career. His first album, Angel Clare, came out in 1973. It included the hit “All I Know,” which hit the top 10 in the US.
Garfunkel’s solo work includes albums like Breakaway and Watermark. These albums got him both critical praise and commercial success. He has had one top 10 hit, three top 20 hits, and six top 40 hits. He also has five Adult Contemporary number ones, making him a musical icon.
Debut Solo Album: “Angel Clare“
Angel Clare, released in 1973, was a big step for Garfunkel. The album’s hit single, “All I Know,” reached number 9 in the US. It showed Garfunkel’s talent as a solo artist.
The album also had covers of Van Morrison’s “I Shall Sing” and Paul Williams’ “Traveling Boy.” These songs showed Garfunkel’s ability to interpret different songs well.
Notable Singles and Albums
Garfunkel’s solo career kept growing with albums like Breakaway and Watermark. Breakaway hit the top 10 in the US and UK. Watermark even got gold certification, proving Garfunkel’s success as a solo artist.
Collaborations with Other Artists
Garfunkel has worked with many artists, including a reunion with Paul Simon on “My Little Town.” This song was on both their solo albums. It showed the lasting musical bond between Simon and Garfunkel.
“I wanted to concentrate on music, and not act, after Simon & Garfunkel broke up.”
– Art Garfunkel, in an interview discussing his solo career.
Emmy and Other Achievements
Art Garfunkel has won many awards, including eight Grammy Awards and being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990. His talents have been seen in music, film, and voice work.
Recognition and Awards in Music
Garfunkel’s amazing voice and songwriting have earned him eight Grammy Awards. This shows his lasting influence on folk and pop music.
Contributions to Film and Theatre
Garfunkel also acted in famous movies like Catch-22 (1970) and Carnal Knowledge (1971). His unique voice and screen presence made him a versatile artist.
Narration and Voice Work
Garfunkel’s voice has been used in many projects. His unique voice adds depth and emotion to his work.
“Art Garfunkel’s voice is one of the most beautiful instruments in all of popular music.”
Artistic Collaborations
Art Garfunkel had many artistic collaborations throughout his career. These partnerships greatly expanded his creative horizons. They left a lasting impact on the music world. His most famous partnership was with Paul Simon in the 1950s.
The duo reunited in 1981 for a free concert in Central Park. This event drew nearly 500,000 people. It led to a world tour and a failed album attempt, “Think Too Much.” Simon later released “Hearts and Bones” in 1983 without Garfunkel.
Influence on Emerging Artists
Garfunkel’s influence went beyond his work with Simon. He shared his unique voice and artistic vision with many emerging artists. His generosity and mentorship inspired and guided many young musicians.
Cross-Genre Collaborations
Garfunkel’s curiosity led him to explore different music genres. He worked on various cross-genre collaborations. These partnerships showcased his versatility and creativity, making him a true musical pioneer.
“Art Garfunkel’s voice is one of the most beautiful instruments in all of popular music. His soothing, angelic tones have the power to captivate audiences and inspire fellow artists alike.”
Personal Life and Relationships
Art Garfunkel’s personal life is as fascinating as his music career. In 1988, he married Kathryn Garfunkel. Together, they have two sons, Art Garfunkel Jr. and Beau Garfunkel. Their family has a deep musical tradition.
Art Garfunkel Jr. has followed his father’s musical path. He and his father released an album called “Father and Son” under the name “Garfunkel and Garfunkel.” Beau also plays the harp and sings with his father.
Garfunkel has also had close friendships in the music world. These friendships have led to unforgettable performances and collaborations. These personal connections have greatly influenced Garfunkel’s career and legacy.
Garfunkel’s personal life has been a source of inspiration and support. His marriage to Kathryn and his sons’ musical talents have brought him joy. They have shaped his artistic vision and legacy in meaningful ways.
Influence on Popular Culture
Art Garfunkel’s impact on popular culture is clear. In 2008, Rolling Stone magazine ranked him 86th in their list of the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time. This shows his amazing vocal talent and artistry.
Legacy in Folk and Pop Music
Garfunkel’s work with Paul Simon as Simon & Garfunkel has changed folk and pop music forever. Their songs like “The Sound of Silence,” “Mrs. Robinson,” and “Bridge over Troubled Water” still inspire many. They are loved by both musicians and listeners today.
Appearances in Films and TV Shows
Garfunkel has also made a big impact in movies. He starred in “Catch-22” and “Carnal Knowledge,” showing his range. Though he hasn’t been in many TV shows, his lasting fame has touched many areas of popular culture.
Simon & Garfunkel’s music keeps touching hearts around the world. This makes Art Garfunkel a true legend in folk and pop music history.
“Art Garfunkel’s voice is one of the most beautiful instruments in popular music.”
– Rolling Stone
Philanthropic Endeavors
Art Garfunkel has used his time and resources to help others, even though we don’t know all the details. As a famous singer-songwriter, he has likely worked on many projects to help society and the environment. His efforts show his commitment to making a difference.
Involvement in Charitable Organizations
Garfunkel’s net worth of about $90 million shows he can support good causes. His success in music and acting, plus smart investments, has given him the wealth to help others. He might use his music royalties, real estate, and business ventures to do good.
Advocacy and Social Issues
Garfunkel cares about the environment and education, even if we don’t know all the specifics. His work shows he wants to use his fame for good. He focuses on causes he believes in, showing his dedication to helping others.
Art Garfunkel’s impact goes beyond his music. His charitable work, though not well-known, shows he’s a well-rounded person. He believes in giving back and making the world a better place.
Continuing Legacy and Current Work
Art Garfunkel is still a big name in music, always looking for new ways to create. In 2023, he released “Father and Son,” an album with his son, Art Garfunkel Jr. This album, called “Garfunkel and Garfunkel,” mixes old songs from the mid-20th century with hits from the 1980s. It shows off their amazing vocal harmonies.
Recent Projects and Performances
The “Father and Son” album is set to come out on November 8th, 2023. It’s making a lot of people excited. Garfunkel and his son will also perform at New York’s Cafe Carlyle for a week. This event, called “The Garfunkels,” will include Art Garfunkel Jr.’s younger son, Beau, and Garfunkel’s wife, Kathryn.
The Ongoing Influence of Art Garfunkel
Art Garfunkel’s legacy is still celebrated around the world. His work with his son and family shows his lasting impact on music. From his famous songs with Paul Simon to his solo work and family projects, Garfunkel keeps inspiring artists and fans everywhere.
Source Links
- Art Garfunkel, The Complete Interview: Thoughts On An Iconic Career
- Art Garfunkel – Songs, Wife & Age
- Here’s to You, Mr. Garfunkel
- Art Garfunkel age, hometown, biography | Last.fm
- Simon & Garfunkel
- Biography – The Official Simon & Garfunkel Site
- 1970 – 1974 Chronology – Art Garfunkel
- 1975 – 1979 Chronology – Art Garfunkel
- Two Generations of Garfunkels Unveil Collaborative ‘Father and Son’ Album
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics
- 20th Primetime Emmy Awards
- Art Garfunkel
- Collaborating with the Past: Art Garfunkel in the Here and Now
- From an Underground Man: Art Garfunkel Reflects on His Life, Work, and Relationships | Arts | The Harvard Crimson
- Who Is Art Garfunkel’s Wife? All About Kim Garfunkel
- Art Garfunkel | Biography, Hits, & Simon and Garfunkel | Britannica
- Simon & Garfunkel
- And Garfunkel, Part IV — Crossroads & Parallels — OpenArticle
- Discover How The Iconic Singer Attained Financial Success And View Art Garfunkel’s Amazing Net Worth.
- Darkness, My Old Friend | The Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
- Art Garfunkel Reveals Emotional Reunion With Paul Simon
- Art Garfunkel Jr. Is Keeping Simon and Garfunkel Music Alive — By Singing It in German
