Paul Simon (born October 13, 1941) is an American musician and songwriter whose work spans folk, rock, pop and global musical traditions. Of Jewish descent, Simon rose to public attention in the 1960s as one half of the duo with Art Garfunkel. Over a career that has lasted more than six decades he has been praised for concise melodies, literate lyrics and a willingness to experiment with new sounds.

Simon's early professional partnership began in the 1950s under the name Tom and Jerry; their single "Hey Schoolgirl" became a minor hit and helped launch his songwriting career. The pair re-emerged in the mid-1960s as Simon & Garfunkel and achieved widespread recognition with recordings built from folk roots and studio production. Songs from that era mixed intimate storytelling with social observation and helped define the singer-songwriter movement in popular music.

Notable songs and albums

  • Key singles and compositions include "The Sound of Silence," "Mrs. Robinson," "Bridge Over Troubled Water," "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard," "50 Ways to Leave Your Lover" and "Still Crazy After All These Years."
  • As a solo artist Simon explored diverse directions. His 1986 album Graceland brought South African rhythms and collaborators into pop view and remains one of his most talked-about works.
  • Later solo records have continued to appear, often mixing studio innovation with personal, reflective lyrics.

After Simon & Garfunkel parted in the early 1970s, Simon established himself as a solo artist. His writing often balances concise musical hooks with narrative or reflective lyrics; arrangements range from spare acoustic settings to richly produced, rhythmically complex tracks. He has collaborated with many musicians and producers while maintaining a distinct voice as a composer and performer.

Simon has received numerous honors for his work, including multiple major recording awards and recognition from institutions that honor songwriting and cultural contribution. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame both as part of a duo and as a solo artist. He holds honorary degrees from institutions such as Yale University and Berklee College of Music, and his influence was recognized in lists of influential figures by outlets including Time.

Beyond chart success and awards, Simon is frequently cited for expanding popular music's palette by incorporating international styles, collaborating with artists across genres, and continuing to write and record into later life. His songs are widely covered and used in film and television, and his career is studied for its combination of craftsmanship, melodic clarity and openness to new sonic ideas.

Today Paul Simon remains an important figure in modern popular music: a songwriter whose career illustrates how folk-based roots can evolve into broad creative explorations while retaining a focus on clear, evocative songwriting.