About the song
Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence” is a timeless folk-rock classic that has left an indelible mark on the music landscape since its release in 1964. Featured on their debut album, “Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.,” this hauntingly beautiful track captures the spirit of introspection and existential reflection.
Crafted by singer-songwriter Paul Simon, “The Sound of Silence” is characterized by its poignant lyrics and Simon’s emotive vocals, accompanied by Art Garfunkel’s harmonious melodies. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar accompaniment sets a melancholic tone, inviting listeners to ponder life’s deeper questions.
Initially, “The Sound of Silence” received modest success upon its release, but it gained newfound popularity when it was re-released with electric instrumentation, reaching the top of the charts in 1966. Its resurgence catapulted Simon & Garfunkel to international fame, solidifying their status as folk-rock icons.
Over the years, “The Sound of Silence” has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as a classic of folk and rock music. Its timeless appeal and universal themes of isolation and alienation continue to resonate with audiences of all ages.
As listeners are transported to a world of introspection and contemplation through the haunting melodies of “The Sound of Silence,” they are reminded of the enduring power of music to evoke emotion and provoke thought. With its timeless beauty and profound lyricism, this iconic track stands as a testament to Simon & Garfunkel’s enduring legacy as pioneers of folk-rock music.
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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”