Back

Facts for Kids

Paul Frederic Simon is an American singer-songwriter celebrated for his solo career and his famous partnership with Art Garfunkel, creating music that inspires and tells stories.

Overview

Discography

Awards And Honors

Musical Beginnings

Simon Garfunkel Era

Solo Career Highlights

Early Life And Education

Philanthropy And Activism

Cultural Impact And Legacy

Influences And Musical Style

Collaborations With Other Artists

main image

Inside this Article

Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame

Singer-songwriter

New York City

South Africa

Rock Music

Did you know?

๐ŸŽค Paul Simon was born on October 13, 1941, in Newark, New Jersey.

๐ŸŒ He is best known for his music as a solo artist and with his friend Art Garfunkel as Simon & Garfunkel.

๐ŸŽถ Paul learned to play the guitar when he was just 11 years old!

๐ŸŽต The hit song "The Sound of Silence" by Simon & Garfunkel was released in 1964.

๐Ÿš€ Paul Simon started his music career as a teenager, forming a duo called "Tom and Jerry".

๐ŸŒ† They created timeless hits like "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and "Mrs. Robinson."

๐ŸŽค His solo album "Graceland" was inspired by his travels to South Africa.

๐Ÿ† Paul Simon has won 16 Grammy Awards for his incredible music.

๐ŸŽถ He has collaborated with many musicians, including the famous Bob Dylan.

๐Ÿ™Œ Paul is also known for helping others, supporting causes like children's health and education.

Introduction

Paul Simon is a famous American singer-songwriter ๐ŸŽค, born on October 13, 1941, in Newark, New Jersey. He is loved for his beautiful songs and clever lyrics. Paul is best known for his work as a solo artist and as a part of the popular duo Simon & Garfunkel. With a career spanning over six decades, Paul has created music that makes people feel happy, sad, and everything in between. His songs often tell stories and explore ideas, making him a beloved figure in music for kids and adults alike! ๐ŸŒ๐ŸŽถ
Read Less

Discography

Paul Simon has released many albums that showcase his amazing talent! ๐ŸŽผ

Some of his most famous albums include "Paul Simon," "Bridge Over Troubled Water," "Graceland," and "So Beautiful or So What." Overall, he has more than 15 studio albums, featuring famous songs like "You Can Call Me Al," "Late in the Evening," and "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes." ๐Ÿ“€ Each album offers a unique listening experience filled with fantastic melodies and heartfelt lyrics, making it easy for everyone to fall in love with his music! ๐ŸŽค๐Ÿ’•
Read Less

Awards And Honors

Paul Simon has received many awards during his incredible career! ๐Ÿ†

He has won 16 Grammy Awards, which are given for outstanding music. In 2015, he was awarded the prestigious "Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award." Paul was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twiceโ€”once as part of Simon & Garfunkel and again for his solo work! ๐ŸŽคโœจ His contributions to music have earned him a special place in history, and he continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans!
Read Less

Musical Beginnings

Paul Simon started his musical career when he was just a teenager. In 1957, he formed a duo with his friend Art Garfunkel. They called themselves โ€œTom and Jerryโ€ and had a small hit called "Hey, Schoolgirl." ๐ŸŽต Later on, they decided to use their real namesโ€”Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. Their sound was special because they blended folk and rock music together. By the 1960s, they were becoming very popular, and everyone wanted to hear their music! ๐Ÿš€

Read Less

Simon & Garfunkel Era

In the 1960s, Simon & Garfunkel became hugely successful! Their song "The Sound of Silence" was a big hit in 1964, and it made people listen closely to their beautiful harmonies. ๐ŸŽถ

They followed up with other famous songs like "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and "Mrs. Robinson." The duoโ€™s dreamy melodies and poetic lyrics touched the hearts of many listeners. They even performed at a huge concert in Central Park, New York City, in 1981, which drew thousands of fans! ๐ŸŒ†โค๏ธ
Read Less

Solo Career Highlights

After Simon & Garfunkel split up in 1970, Paul Simon embarked on a solo career. ๐ŸŽค

His first solo album, "Paul Simon," featured the hit song "Mother and Child Reunion." He continued to create amazing music, like the iconic "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and "50 Ways to Leave Your Lover." In the 1980s, he released the famous album "Graceland" after traveling to South Africa, which was inspired by African music! ๐ŸŒ

Graceland is famous for its fun songs and interesting sounds that brought new fans to Paulโ€™s music.
Read Less

Early Life And Education

Paul Simon grew up in a Jewish family in New York City. He loved music since he was a little boy! ๐ŸŽน

When Paul was 11 years old, he learned to play the guitar. He went to a high school called Forest Hills High School, where he began writing his own songs. Paul was very inspired by his parents, especially his mother, who loved music and encouraged him to sing. After high school, he attended Queens College for a while before fully diving into his music career. ๐Ÿ“š

Read Less

Philanthropy And Activism

Paul Simon is not just a musician, but also a caring activist! ๐Ÿ™Œ

He has worked on many causes, including education and environmental issues. Paul has supported organizations like "The Children's Health Fund," which helps kids in need get medical care! He also participated in concerts that raised money for various charities. With his music, Paul works to bring awareness to important social issues, encouraging others to help too! ๐ŸŽ—

๏ธ
Read Less

Cultural Impact And Legacy

Paul Simon's music has had a big influence on many people around the world! ๐ŸŒ

His catchy tunes and meaningful messages resonate with fans of all ages. Paul has inspired countless musicians and songwriters with his unique style, storytelling, and ability to blend different cultures in his music. His songs often appear in movies and TV shows, reminding us just how relevant they still are today! ๐Ÿฅณ

People will be singing his songs for many years, keeping his legacy alive!
Read Less

Influences And Musical Style

Paul Simon's musical style is a unique blend of folk, rock, and world music. ๐ŸŽธ

He has been influenced by many different types of music, including jazz and reggae. His travels around the world inspired him to include diverse sounds and instruments in his songs. For example, in "Graceland," he used South African musicians to create a fresh sound! Paul is also known for his meaningful lyrics, often talking about life, love, and friendship. This mix sets him apart and makes his music special! ๐ŸŒˆ

Read Less

Collaborations With Other Artists

Throughout his career, Paul Simon has collaborated with many talented musicians! ๐ŸŽถ

He worked with artists like James Taylor, Art Garfunkel, and even singer-songwriter Bob Dylan! Their teamwork often results in beautiful harmonies and rich sounds. One of the most famous collaborations was with Nigerian artist King Sunny Adรฉ in 1986, who helped bring African music to new audiences. Paul loves to experiment and create, which leads to amazing music that everyone can enjoy! ๐ŸŒ๐ŸŽ‰
Read Less

Paul Simon Quiz

Q1
Question 1 of 10
Next

Frequently Asked Questions

Is DIY back?!
How do I reactivate my account?
How do I sign up?
Are the android and iOS apps coming back?
What is DIY?
What is a โ€œChallengeโ€ on DIY?
What is a โ€œCourseโ€ on DIY?
What are โ€œSkillsโ€ on DIY?
What if I'm new to all thisโ€”where do I begin?
Do I need special materials or equipment?
Is DIY safe for kids?
Can I collaborate with other DIYers on a project?
How do Mentors, Mods, and Jr. Mods help us?
What is DIY?
What's the recommended age for DIY?

Our Mission

To create a safe space for kid creators worldwide!

Download on AppStoreDownload on Google Play

2025, URSOR LIMITED. All rights reserved. DIY is in no way affiliated with Minecraftโ„ข, Mojang, Microsoft, Robloxโ„ข or YouTube. LEGOยฎ is a trademark of the LEGOยฎ Group which does not sponsor, endorse or authorize this website or event. Made with love in San Francisco.