Did you know?
“The Sound of Silence” is a classic folk rock song by the American music duo Simon & Garfunkel, consisting of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. The song was written by Paul Simon and originally released in 1964 as an acoustic ballad on their debut studio album, “Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.” However, it gained widespread popularity after a remixed electric version was released as a single in 1965.
Here are some details about the song:
Title: The Sound of Silence
Release Date: Original release in 1964; remixed version released as a single in 1965.
Album: Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.
Genre: Folk rock
Lyrics: “The Sound of Silence” is known for its poetic and introspective lyrics. The song explores themes of isolation, alienation, and the inability to communicate effectively in a modern, disconnected world. The opening lines, “Hello darkness, my old friend, I’ve come to talk with you again,” set the tone for the contemplative and melancholic atmosphere of the song.
Musical Style: The original version of the song featured acoustic guitar and vocals, reflecting the folk music style prevalent in the early 1960s. However, the remixed version that became a hit was characterized by the addition of electric instrumentation, including a prominent use of a 12-string guitar. The haunting melody and evocative instrumentation contribute to the enduring appeal of the song.
Cultural Impact: “The Sound of Silence” became an anthem of the 1960s counterculture and is often associated with the turbulent social and political climate of that era. The song’s popularity was further boosted when it was prominently featured in the soundtrack of the 1967 film “The Graduate,” starring Dustin Hoffman. The enduring appeal of “The Sound of Silence” is evidenced by its continued presence in popular culture, including various covers and references in contemporary media.
Legacy: Over the years, “The Sound of Silence” has endured as one of Simon & Garfunkel’s most iconic and beloved songs. It has been covered by numerous artists across different genres, attesting to its lasting influence. The song’s timeless themes continue to resonate with audiences, and it remains a significant part of the musical landscape, cementing its status as a classic in the folk rock genre.
Video
Lyrics
“The Sound Of Silence”
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 silenceIn restless dreams I walked alone
Narrow streets of cobblestone
‘Neath the halo of a streetlamp
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 silenceAnd 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.”