Singer Art Garfunkel and songwriter Paul Simon created the legendary pop duo Simon & Garfunkel. The band’s success was fueled by Garfunkel’s magnificent lyrical tenor and Simon’s extraordinary musicianship. Together, they released many hits before deciding to go solo. Garfunkel also became famous as an outstanding actor. Read more about the life path of the celebrity whose voice has captivated audiences for decades on queenski.com.
Early years
Art Garfunkel (full name Arthur Ira Garfunkel) was born on November 5, 1941 in Queens. His father worked as a traveling salesman (a traveling agent for a trade organization) and also as an actor in his early years. His mother took care of the house. When Art was 4 years old, his father brought home a tape recorder. Then, the boy began to sing. From a young age, he showed a talent for singing and actively participated in school talent shows.
In the 6th grade, Art met Paul Simon. The boys performed in a school play and became friends. They listened to the radio, sang and experimented with compositions to the accompaniment of Simon’s acoustic guitar. In 1957, in high school, the young men founded the duo Tom & Jerry. They recorded the hit Hey, Schoolgirl but decided not to continue their musical career due to a quarrel. It was caused by the fact that Simon made a solo recording. After that, Garfunkel studied at Columbia University (New York). He received a bachelor’s degree in art history and a master’s degree in mathematics. Simon studied English at Queens College and briefly attended law school.
Simon & Garfunkel
During about 5 years of relative estrangement from each other, neither Garfunkel nor Simon abandoned music. In the early 1960s, they reconnected and began performing together again as the duo Simon & Garfunkel. The group focused on folk songs that Simon wrote under the influence of Bob Dylan, one of the most influential pop musicians. Other music creators borrowed many catchphrases from his lyrics.
After signing a contract with Columbia Records, the duo released their first album, Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M. The title song from the album, The Sound of Silence, became a real hit.
In the 1970s, the musicians released many hits, including Homeward Bound, I Am a Rock, Mrs. Robinson and others. At the peak of his popularity, Garfunkel wanted to pursue an acting career. For this and other reasons, the duo disbanded in 1971.
Acting career
While Simon focused on music, Garfunkel pursued an acting career. He wrote the soundtrack for the film The Graduate (1967). Then, director Mike Nichols offered the musician several roles. He starred in the satirical war comedy Catch-22 (1970) and the comedy-drama Carnal Knowledge (1971). Garfunkel also appeared in the works of other directors, including the psychological drama Bad Timing (1980), the crime thriller Good to Go (1986) and the drama Boxing Helena (1993).
Solo musician
After the end of his work in the duo, Garfunkel did not record again until 1973. Then, he released his debut solo album, Angel Clare (1973). His second album, Breakaway (1975), was a success. The song I Only Have Eyes for You became especially popular. Art Garfunkel has a distinctive tenor voice with a wide vocal range, which is often called angelic. Garfunkel invited Simon to create the song My Little Town. They also collaborated on some other works.
During the 1980s, the musician’s songs did not receive very favorable reviews. However, in 1981, he and Simon performed before a huge audience at a free open-air concert in New York’s Central Park. In addition, the former musical partners went on an international tour. After that, inspired by the warm response of fans, Garfunkel resumed solo work. Among the most interesting creations are the children’s album Songs from a Parent to a Child and the album Some Enchanted Evening, consisting of covers of classic works of the 20th century.
By the way, the singer is a true perfectionist. He is known for his meticulous approach to recording in the studio and strives to achieve perfection in every vocal performance and harmonization. The singer is fluent in Spanish. In his repertoire, you can find songs in this language, which demonstrates Garfunkel’s versatility as a vocalist. In his music, he often explores philosophical concepts, filling the songs with deep meaning and introspection.
Personal life
If Art Garfunkel is a successful person in the music and acting industry, his personal life is not so simple. In 1972-1975, he was married to architect Linda Marie Grossman. Later, the singer admitted that he never loved her.
In 1974, he began a romantic relationship with actress and photographer Laurie Bird. Five years later, she committed suicide. Garfunkel said that Laurie was beautiful but lonely. He adored her. However, he was not ready for marriage. By the way, Laurie’s mother also committed suicide at the age of 25.
In 1988, the musician married a former model, Kathryn (Kim) Cermak. The couple had two sons. The eldest of them followed in his father’s footsteps and became a singer.
Interesting facts
- Art Garfunkel is a bookworm. He has a huge home library.
- The musician’s hobby is poetry. Garfunkel’s poetic career began in 1981 during the Simon & Garfunkel tour in Switzerland. He was riding a motorcycle and began writing a poem describing the countryside. In 1989, Garfunkel published a collection of prose poems Still Water, which received many positive reviews. He shared with readers quite sad stages of his own life, such as the loss of his father, the suicide of Laurie Bird, a difficult relationship with Paul Simon, etc.
- Another hobby of the performer is mathematics. Garfunkel published a book, What Is It All But Luminous: Notes from an Underground Man, in which he described his love of numbers.
- Art often made headlines for his criticism of Paul Simon. His personal and professional drama with his former friend and musical partner distracted attention from his unique talent.
- The performer often participated in various charitable events, supporting education, environmental protection and public awareness of autism.
- Known for his unique fashion sense, Art Garfunkel often wears stylish, fashionable outfits that captivate both fans and fashion enthusiasts.
- In 1990, the duo Simon & Garfunkel were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, confirming their important role in the history of music.
- In 1998, Art received an honorary doctorate from the University of Connecticut in recognition of his contributions to music and the arts.
Overall, Art Garfunkel’s name became synonymous with timeless music and enigmatic talent. He has made a huge contribution to the entertainment industry, from his popularity with Paul Simon to an equally successful solo career and acting. Although his fans have seen both ups and downs, no one has ever doubted Art Garfunkel’s dedication to his craft. His passion for music is evident in every note he sings. His ability to connect with an audience is truly incredible.