Art Garfunkel vs Paul Simon: The Real Story Behind Simon & Garfunkel
Art Garfunkel is the tenor vocalist; Paul Simon is the principal songwriter and guitarist. Only Simon’s name appears on the credits because he composed the melodies and lyrics while Garfunkel arranged harmonies and vocals.
Most fans assume “Simon & Garfunkel” means equal authorship, leading to the mix-up. In everyday conversation people casually say “Garfunkel wrote Bridge over Troubled Water,” unaware the publishing splits tell a different story.
Key Differences
Simon: sole writer, melodies, lyrics, guitar. Garfunkel: vocal arrangements, harmonies, performance. Studio contracts list Simon as composer; Garfunkel receives performer royalties.
Which One Should You Choose?
Need songwriting credit? Reference Paul Simon. Need vocal identity? Reference Art Garfunkel. For the duo’s brand, always say “Simon & Garfunkel” to respect the partnership and the paperwork.
Examples and Daily Life
Play “The Sound of Silence” at a trivia night and ask who wrote it—most hands go up for Garfunkel. Correct them: Paul Simon penned every verse, yet Garfunkel’s harmony made it iconic.
Did Art Garfunkel ever write a Simon & Garfunkel song?
No. All credited songs are Paul Simon compositions; Garfunkel contributed vocal arrangements.
Why is the duo not called Garfunkel & Simon?
Label marketing and alphabetical order established “Simon & Garfunkel,” and it stuck.
Do they share equal royalties today?
Performance royalties are split, but songwriter royalties flow only to Paul Simon.