About the song
“Mrs. Robinson,” an iconic song by the American folk rock duo Simon & Garfunkel, remains a timeless piece of music that not only defined an era but also left an indelible mark on American popular culture. Released in 1968 as part of their fourth studio album, *Bookends*, the song captivated audiences with its infectious melody and poignant lyrics.
The genesis of “Mrs. Robinson” predates its inclusion in the 1967 film *The Graduate*, where fragments of the song initially appeared. Written by Paul Simon, the song was eventually completed and released as a single on April 5, 1968, by Columbia Records. Its success was immediate and far-reaching, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and garnering international acclaim, including a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1969, making it the first rock song to achieve this honor.
The song’s lyrics weave together themes of disillusionment, longing, and societal critique, encapsulated in its famous reference to baseball legend Joe DiMaggio. This cultural nod added depth and resonance, further solidifying its place not just as a soundtrack hit but as a reflection of contemporary American life.
Simon & Garfunkel’s collaboration with director Mike Nichols for *The Graduate* proved pivotal. Initially hesitant about contributing to a film, Paul Simon eventually penned “Mrs. Robinson” and other tracks for the soundtrack, cementing the duo’s association with the movie’s iconic scenes. The song’s popularity soared, becoming a crucial component of the film’s marketing and enhancing its narrative depth.
Over the years, “Mrs. Robinson” has been covered by numerous artists, including Frank Sinatra and Bon Jovi, underscoring its enduring appeal and cultural significance. Its recognition was further solidified in 2004 when it ranked sixth on AFI’s 100 Years…100 Songs list, celebrating its impact on American cinema and music.
In conclusion, “Mrs. Robinson” remains a masterpiece of its time, blending Simon & Garfunkel’s musical prowess with incisive storytelling. Its journey from inception to cultural phenomenon mirrors the evolving landscape of 1960s America, making it not just a song, but a lasting testament to the power of music in shaping popular consciousness.
Video
Lyrics
And here’s to you, Mrs. Robinson
Jesus loves you more than you will know
Whoa, whoa, whoa
God bless you, please, Mrs. Robinson
Heaven holds a place for those who pray
Hey, hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey
We’d like to know a little bit about you for our files
We’d like to help you learn to help yourself
Look around you, all you see are sympathetic eyes
Stroll around the grounds until you feel at home
And here’s to you, Mrs. Robinson
Jesus loves you more than you will know
Whoa, whoa, whoa
God bless you, please, Mrs. Robinson
Heaven holds a place for those who pray
Hey, hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey
Hide it in a hiding place where no one ever goes
Put it in your pantry with your cupcakes
It’s a little secret, just the Robinson’s affair
Most of all, you’ve got to hide it from the kids
Coo, coo, ca-choo, Mrs. Robinson
Jesus loves you more than you will know
Whoa, whoa, whoa
God bless you, please, Mrs. Robinson
Heaven holds a place for those who pray
Hey, hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey
Sitting on a sofa on a Sunday afternoon
Going to the candidates debate
Laugh about it, shout about it
When you’ve got to choose
Every way you look at this, you lose
Where have you gone, Joe DiMaggio?
Our nation turns its lonely eyes to you
Woo, woo, woo
What’s that you say, Mrs. Robinson?
Joltin’ Joe has left and gone away
Hey, hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey