Art Garfunkel
- Occupation:
- Musician
- Date of Birth:
- 05 November 1941
- Sex:
- Male
- Height:
- 1.83
Introduction:
Art Garfunkel (born Arthur Ira Garfunkel, 5 November 1941) is an acclaimed American singer, poet, and actor, best known as one half of the legendary folk-rock duo Simon & Garfunkel. Renowned for his ethereal tenor voice, Garfunkel’s contributions to music include Grammy Award-winning performances and timeless hits such as “The Sound of Silence” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” Beyond music, he has also garnered recognition as a Golden Globe-nominated actor and published poet.
Early Life and Background:
Art Garfunkel was born in Forest Hills, Queens, New York City, to Rose and Jacob Garfunkel. His love for singing began early, inspired by the acoustics of his school’s echoing hallways. Encouraged by his father, who purchased him a wire recorder, Garfunkel honed his vocal skills daily. His passion for music deepened when he met Paul Simon in sixth grade. The pair were cast together in a school production of Alice in Wonderland and soon formed a musical partnership, performing as "Tom and Jerry" under the guidance of their first record label, Big Records. Their 1957 single “Hey, Schoolgirl” achieved modest success, reaching No. 49 on the pop charts.
Music Career:
Simon & Garfunkel officially formed in 1963, releasing their debut album, Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M., in 1964. Initially unsuccessful, the album’s track “The Sound of Silence” was later reworked with electric instrumentation and became a chart-topping hit. The duo’s subsequent albums, including Sounds of Silence, Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme, Bookends, and Bridge Over Troubled Water, cemented their status as icons of the 1960s music scene. Their work was characterized by poetic lyrics, intricate harmonies, and a blend of folk and rock influences.
Simon & Garfunkel’s music reached a global audience through the soundtrack of the 1967 film The Graduate, further solidifying their cultural impact. However, creative differences and divergent ambitions led to their split in 1970 after the release of Bridge Over Troubled Water, their most successful album.
Post-breakup, Garfunkel pursued a solo career, releasing albums such as Angel Clare (1973) and Breakaway (1975), which featured the hit single “My Little Town”—a reunion with Paul Simon. He also explored acting, starring in films like Catch-22 (1970) and Carnal Knowledge (1971), earning a Golden Globe nomination. Despite occasional collaborations with Simon, including the famed 1981 Concert in Central Park, tensions between the pair persisted, preventing a full-scale reunion.
Garfunkel’s career highlights include the 1979 release of “Bright Eyes,” which became a UK chart-topping single and was featured in the animated film Watership Down. However, personal tragedies, including the death of his girlfriend Laurie Bird, profoundly impacted his output during the 1980s.
In 2003, Garfunkel released Everything Waits to Be Noticed, an album showcasing his songwriting skills for the first time since his early career. His later years included sporadic performances with Simon, although vocal cord paralysis in 2010 led to a significant hiatus from singing.
Personal Life:
Garfunkel’s personal life has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. He was married to architect Linda Marie Grossman from 1972 to 1975. His subsequent relationship with actress Laurie Bird ended tragically with her suicide in 1979. In 1985, he met Kathryn Cermak, a former model, and the couple married in 1988. Together, they have two sons, James and Beau Daniel.
A passionate reader and walker, Garfunkel once undertook a series of long-distance walks across Europe and the United States, which he documented in his poetry and memoirs.
Legacy and Influence:
Art Garfunkel’s contributions to music and culture are enduring. As part of Simon & Garfunkel, he helped define the sound of the 1960s, creating songs that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. His vocal performances, particularly on tracks like “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and “Scarborough Fair,” remain benchmarks of excellence. His solo career, while less commercially successful, showcased his versatility and commitment to artistry.
Beyond music, Garfunkel’s explorations in poetry, acting, and writing reflect his multifaceted talent. His influence can be seen in countless artists who cite Simon & Garfunkel as inspirations.
Recent Activities:
In recent years, Garfunkel has focused on live performances, poetry, and personal projects. He published his memoir, What Is It All but Luminous: Notes from an Underground Man, in 2017, offering insights into his life, career, and creative process. Despite vocal challenges, he has continued to tour, captivating audiences with his timeless voice and engaging stage presence. In 2020, he celebrated the 50th anniversary of Bridge Over Troubled Water with reflections on its legacy.
Garfunkel’s enduring dedication to his craft ensures his place as a cherished figure in the world of music and beyond.
- Occupation:
- Musician
- Date of Birth:
- 05 November 1941
- Sex:
- Male
- Height:
- 1.83