How 'The Sound of Silence' became a hit
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
Fifty years ago today, Simon and Garfunkel recorded "The Sound of Silence." The acoustic version of the song was included on their first album "Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M." When that album didn't sell well, Simon and Garfunkel decided to part ways.
But in 1965, without their knowledge, a producer added drums, an electric guitar and bass to the song and released that version of "The Sound of Silence" as a single.
It would go on to top the charts and was the reason that Simon and Garfunkel resumed performing and recording together.
Turn Up Your Support
MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all.
Dear reader,
Your voice matters. And we want to hear it.
Will you help shape the future of Minnesota Public Radio by taking our short Listener Survey?
It only takes a few minutes, and your input helps us serve you better—whether it’s news, culture, or the conversations that matter most to Minnesotans.
