What is Simon & Garfunkel?
Simon & Garfunkel, the iconic folk-rock duo of the 1960s, have left an indelible mark on music history with their harmonious melodies and poignant lyrics. Their discography, though concise, has achieved remarkable commercial success. Below is a table summarizing their top-selling albums:
Here is the Album Sales
Rank |
Album Title |
Release Year |
Estimated Sales |
1 |
Bridge Over Troubled Water |
1970 |
Over 25 million |
2 |
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme |
1966 |
Over 10 million |
3 |
Bookends |
1968 |
Over 8 million |
4 |
Sounds of Silence |
1966 |
Over 7 million |
5 |
Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M. |
1964 |
Over 3 million |
6 |
The Concert in Central Park |
1982 |
Over 2 million |
7 |
Simon & Garfunkel’s Greatest Hits |
1972 |
Over 14 million |
8 |
Old Friends |
1997 |
Over 1 million |
9 |
The Columbia Studio Recordings
(1964-1970) |
2001 |
Over 500,000 |
10 |
Live from New York City, 1967 |
2002 |
Over 300,000 |
Why "Bridge Over Troubled Water" is the best selling album?
1. "Bridge Over Troubled Water," released in 1970, stands as Simon & Garfunkel's most commercially successful album, with over 25 million copies sold worldwide. This monumental success can be attributed to several key factors:
2. Title Track's Universal Appeal: The song "Bridge Over Troubled Water" showcased a departure from the duo's typical folk style, embracing a grandiose, gospel-inspired arrangement. Art Garfunkel's soulful and powerful vocal delivery resonated with a wide audience, making it an anthem of comfort and support.
3. Diverse Musical Styles: The album features a blend of genres, including folk, rock, gospel, and even Peruvian influences in "El Condor Pasa (If I Could)." This eclectic mix attracted a broad spectrum of listeners, enhancing its widespread appeal.
4. Critical Acclaim and Awards: The album received critical acclaim, winning multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. Such recognition bolstered its reputation and encouraged more listeners to explore the record.
5. Cultural and Historical Context: Released at the dawn of a new decade, the album's themes of hope and resilience resonated during a time of social and political upheaval, providing solace to many.