About the song
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” is the fifth and final studio album by the American folk rock duo Simon & Garfunkel, released on January 26, 1970, by Columbia Records. This album marks a significant moment in the duo’s career as it showcases their creative evolution and explores new musical landscapes.
Following their work on the soundtrack for the film “The Graduate,” Art Garfunkel ventured into acting with a role in “Catch-22,” while Paul Simon took on the role of primary songwriter. The album, produced with the help of Roy Halee, departs from their traditional folk roots and incorporates a rich mix of rock, R&B, gospel, jazz, world music, and pop. This diversity in musical style reflects the duo’s willingness to experiment and innovate.
Initially, 14 tracks were recorded, but only 11 made it to the final album after some were dropped and one was controversially added and later removed. The album is often described as both their least effortful and most ambitious work. Its release was a significant event, and it has been reissued multiple times, including a notable 40th anniversary edition in 2011. This special edition featured two DVDs, including the television program “Songs of America” and the documentary “The Harmony Game,” along with additional liner notes and bonus tracks.
Despite receiving widespread acclaim and achieving commercial success—selling over 25 million copies and topping charts in more than ten countries—Simon & Garfunkel decided to part ways shortly after the album’s release. Garfunkel pursued an acting career, while Simon continued to develop his music career, both eventually releasing solo albums.
The album features two of the duo’s most successful songs: “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and “The Boxer.” Both tracks have earned a place on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” With its impressive commercial success and critical acclaim, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” remains a seminal work in the history of music, ranking 51st on Rolling Stone’s list of the “500 Greatest Albums of All Time.”
Video
Lyrics
When you’re weary
Feeling small
When tears are in your eyes
I will dry them all
I’m on your side
When times get rough
And friends just can’t be found
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
When you’re down and out
When you’re on the street
When evening falls so hard
I will comfort you
I’ll take your part
When darkness comes
And pain is all around
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Sail on Silver Girl
Sail on by
Your time has come to shine
All your dreams are on their way
See how they shine (See how they shine)
If you need a friend (If you need a friend)
I’m sailing right behind
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind
I will ease your mind.