Art Garfunkel—yes, that name still carries weight—was blessed with a hauntingly clear tenor voice that became one of the most recognizable sounds in American music. Alongside Paul Simon, Art Garfunkel formed the legendary folk duo Simon & Garfunkel, a partnership that gave voice to an entire generation during the 1960s and beyond. While Paul Simon was undoubtedly the creative engine behind their success—the mastermind crafting timeless songs like “Homeward Bound,” “I Am a Rock,” “Kathy’s Song,” “Scarborough Fair/Canticle,” “The Boxer,” “Cecilia,” and the iconic “Mrs. Robinson” from The Graduate (1967)—it was Art Garfunkel’s ethereal vocals that gave those songs their emotional depth and signature resonance.
Let’s be honest: without Art Garfunkel’s soaring harmonies, would those tracks have felt quite so transcendent? Probably not. His voice wasn’t just complementary—it was essential. Together, they earned five Grammy Awards, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and a well-deserved spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Their cultural impact? Immeasurable. They didn’t just make music; they shaped a moment in time.
Of course, it wasn’t all harmony offstage. A long-simmering rift eventually fractured both their professional collaboration and their lifelong friendship. Still, Art Garfunkel remained a pivotal figure in pop culture. The duo reunited for a historic concert in New York’s Central Park in 1981—an event that broke attendance records and produced one of the greatest live albums of all time. And even as tensions lingered, Art Garfunkel and Paul Simon came together again over the years, delighting fans and filling arenas worldwide.
But Art Garfunkel wasn’t just a singer in a duo. He stepped into the spotlight on his own, too. In fact, he earned a Golden Globe nomination for his performance opposite Jack Nicholson in Mike Nichols’s Carnal Knowledge (1971), showing real promise as an actor. Over time, he explored other artistic avenues, though music always called him back.
Even after moving past much of the bitterness, Art Garfunkel continued to perform and record, proving that his artistry extended beyond the shadow of Simon & Garfunkel. While Paul Simon wrote the songs, Art Garfunkel gave them wings. And let’s not forget—his solo work, though sometimes underrated, holds its own quiet brilliance.
So yes, Art Garfunkel may be best known as half of one of the most influential duos in music history, but his legacy is far more than just a supporting role. Through his voice, his vision, and his enduring presence, Art Garfunkel helped define an era—and kept singing long after the spotlight shifted.
When it comes to Art Garfunkel’s career in film and music, fans and critics alike often point to Monterey Pop (1969) as his standout work—widely regarded as Art Garfunkel’s highest-rated project. The documentary, which captures the iconic 1967 music festival, showcases not only a pivotal moment in rock history but also highlights Art Garfunkel’s presence during a transformative era. On the other end of the spectrum, The Rebound (2009) tends to receive much less acclaim, making it Art Garfunkel’s lowest-rated film to date. While opinions may vary, it’s clear that Art Garfunkel shines brightest in projects rooted in music and cultural milestones. Overall, Art Garfunkel’s body of work reflects a diverse journey, with Monterey Pop standing tall as a highlight and The Rebound serving as a lesser-noted chapter in his artistic legacy.