Bridge over Troubled Water - Simon & Garfunkel (Piano & voice cover by E...

"Bridge over Troubled Water" is one of the most iconic and beloved songs in music history, a cornerstone of the folk-rock genre and a testament to the songwriting genius of Paul Simon.¹ It was the title track of Simon & Garfunkel's fifth and final studio album, released in 1970.² The song's enduring power lies in its beautiful melody, soaring vocals, and deeply emotional and universal message.³

Here's a breakdown of its key aspects:

The Meaning and Inspiration

The song is a powerful metaphor for offering comfort and support to someone in their time of need.⁴ The phrase "Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down" signifies a willingness to sacrifice and be a source of stability for a friend who is "weary" and "down and out."⁵

Paul Simon was inspired to write the song after hearing a line from a gospel song by the Swan Silvertones, led by Claude Jeter, called "Mary Don't You Weep."⁶ The line was, "I'll be your bridge over deep water if you trust in my name."⁷ Simon has acknowledged the influence and even gave Jeter a check for the inspiration.⁸

The final verse, which begins "Sail on, silvergirl," was written specifically for Simon's then-wife, Peggy Harper, after she noticed her first gray hairs.⁹ Despite this personal reference, the song's message remains universal, resonating with listeners facing all kinds of hardships.¹⁰

The Song's Creation and Recording

• A Solo for Garfunkel: Paul Simon wrote the song for Art Garfunkel to sing as a solo, feeling that Garfunkel's "white choirboy way" would be perfect for the gospel-influenced piece.¹¹ This decision, however, became a point of contention and contributed to the duo's strained relationship, as Simon later felt resentment that Garfunkel's magnificent performance made the song seem like his alone.

• The Power Ballad: Originally, "Bridge over Troubled Water" was a more stripped-down, two-verse ballad.¹² It was Garfunkel and producer Roy Halee who encouraged Simon to write a third verse and build it into a bigger, more dramatic finale.¹³ The song's production, which holds back until the final verse, was inspired by Phil Spector's "wall of sound" technique on the Righteous Brothers' "Old Man River."¹⁴

• Studio Musicians: The song features a stunning piano part played by session musician Larry Knechtel, along with contributions from legendary "Wrecking Crew" members Hal Blaine on drums and Joe Osborn on bass.¹⁵ The iconic, dramatic ending includes a full orchestra.

Album and Legacy

• Final Album: The album Bridge over Troubled Water was the duo's final studio album before their temporary breakup.¹⁶ It was an instant blockbuster, winning six Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Album of the Year.¹⁷ It sold over 25 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time.¹⁸

• A Timeless Anthem: "Bridge over Troubled Water" quickly became an anthem for hope and solace in a turbulent era, which included the Vietnam War and significant social and political upheaval in the United States.¹⁹ Its timeless message has led it to be covered by over 50 professional artists, including Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Whitney Houston, and it has been used as a song of comfort during national tragedies and difficult times.²⁰