Who Was More Successful: Art Garfunkel and Paul Simon?
When evaluating their careers post-Simon & Garfunkel, Paul Simon had a much longer and notably more successful solo career than Art Garfunkel.
A Tale of Two Solo Careers
While both Art Garfunkel and Paul Simon achieved monumental success as the iconic duo Simon & Garfunkel, their individual paths following the group's initial disbandment diverged significantly. Paul Simon embarked on a solo career that spanned decades, yielding numerous critically acclaimed albums and widespread commercial success, establishing him as one of the most influential songwriters and recording artists of his time. His solo work is characterized by its innovative musical styles, profound lyrical depth, and sustained popularity.
In contrast, Art Garfunkel also pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and achieving some success, particularly with hits like "All I Know." However, his solo output, while showcasing his distinctive vocal talents, did not achieve the same sustained commercial impact, critical recognition, or longevity as Paul Simon's.
Shared Legacy and Divergent Paths
The collaborative magic of Simon & Garfunkel produced some of the most beloved folk-rock anthems, cementing their place in music history with albums like Bridge Over Troubled Water. Their shared success as a duo is undeniable and monumental. However, once they ventured into individual careers, their levels of success and creative output varied considerably, with Paul Simon demonstrating a remarkable ability to reinvent his sound and connect with audiences across different eras.
Comparative Overview of Solo Success
To highlight the differences in their solo careers, here's a comparative overview:
| Aspect | Paul Simon | Art Garfunkel |
|---|---|---|
| Solo Career Length | Much longer and sustained over several decades | Less extensive and sustained |
| Commercial Success | Significantly more successful, with multiple platinum albums and hit singles | Less commercially successful overall, with fewer breakout hits and albums |
| Critical Acclaim | Highly acclaimed for songwriting, innovation, and musical evolution | Appreciated for vocal performances, but less consistent critical acclaim for overall albums |
| Cultural Impact | Enduring influence on music and pop culture, often cited as a major artist | Primarily remembered for his work with Simon & Garfunkel, with solo work being a secondary focus for many |
Paul Simon's Enduring Impact
Paul Simon's solo discography includes landmark albums such as Graceland, which not only sold millions worldwide but also pioneered the fusion of pop music with world music influences, earning him a Grammy Award for Album of the Year. His continued evolution as an artist, willingness to experiment, and ability to craft timeless songs ensured his prominence long after the duo's prime. His extensive catalog includes hits like "50 Ways to Leave Your Lover," "Kodachrome," and "You Can Call Me Al," showcasing his diverse musical range.
Art Garfunkel's Solo Work
Art Garfunkel's solo career featured his signature clear tenor voice, which was a defining element of Simon & Garfunkel's sound. Albums like Angel Clare and Watermark demonstrated his interpretive skills. While he enjoyed a few successful singles and maintained a touring presence, his solo output generally leaned more towards interpretations of others' songs or less commercially driven projects compared to Simon's prolific and genre-bending compositions.
Ultimately, while both artists contributed significantly to the musical landscape, Paul Simon's solo career proved to be far more extensive and successful in terms of commercial appeal, critical reception, and lasting influence.
