About the song
Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence” stands as a timeless classic that has resonated with generations since its release in 1964. The folk rock duo, comprised of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, delivered a hauntingly beautiful piece that delves into themes of isolation, communication, and existentialism.
Written by Paul Simon, “The Sound of Silence” first appeared on the album “Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.” The song initially received minimal attention, but its fate changed dramatically when a remixed version with electric instrumentation became a surprise hit in 1965, climbing to the top of the charts in the United States. This unexpected success propelled Simon & Garfunkel into the spotlight and marked the beginning of their illustrious career.
The lyrics of “The Sound of Silence” are introspective and thought-provoking, exploring the concept of silence both as a literal absence of sound and as a metaphor for emotional distance and societal disconnect. The stark acoustic guitar accompaniment complements Garfunkel’s ethereal vocals, creating a melancholic atmosphere that captures the song’s underlying sense of loneliness and alienation.
Over the years, “The Sound of Silence” has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition. It has been covered by numerous artists across various genres and has been featured prominently in films, television shows, and cultural references, solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone.
Simon & Garfunkel’s legacy extends far beyond this iconic song, but “The Sound of Silence” remains a standout example of their ability to blend poetic lyrics with haunting melodies, leaving an indelible mark on the music world. Its enduring popularity continues to captivate listeners, making it a timeless piece that transcends generations.
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Lyrics
Hello darkness, my old friend
I’ve come to talk with you again
Because a vision softly creeping
Left its seeds while I was sleeping
And the vision that was planted in my brain
Still remains
Within the sound of silence
In restless dreams I walked alone
Narrow streets of cobblestone
‘Neath the halo of a street lamp
I turned my collar to the cold and damp
When my eyes were stabbed by the flash of a neon light
That split the night
And touched the sound of silence
And in the naked light I saw
Ten thousand people, maybe more
People talking without speaking
People hearing without listening
People writing songs that voices never share
No one dared
Disturb the sound of silence
“Fools” said I, “You do not know
Silence like a cancer grows
Hear my words that I might teach you
Take my arms that I might reach you”
But my words like silent raindrops fell
And echoed in the wells of silence
And the people bowed and prayed
To the neon god they made
And the sign flashed out its warning
In the words that it was forming
And the sign said, “The words of the prophets
Are written on the subway walls
And tenement halls
And whispered in the sounds of silence”