Wednesday 24 February 2021

Bridge Over Troubled Water

Time for some more music from my past.

By 1970 I was 17 years old and in the sixth form. American duo Simon and Garfunkel had built up a big following over previous years, but they were saving some of their greatest songs for the album they brought out that year "Bridge Over Troubled Water". The title track became one of the top selling songs of all time, and I think that over-used word iconic can truly be used of it. 

On the album itself Art Garfunkel sings most of the song until he's joined by Paul Simon in the last verse. Ten or so years later the pair performed their famous "Concert in Central Park" in New York. It attracted over half a million people, some say many more. They played all their great songs and many were waiting for "Bridge Over Troubled Water". Garfunkel performed it solo with very small backing, and that's the version I have chosen here.

The song is simple really, but captures the need we all have for someone to be there for us, and, hopefully, our resolve to be there for others.  

When you're weary, feeling small
When tears are in your eyes, I'll dry them all
I'm on your side
Oh, when times get rough
And friends just can't be found
Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down
 
When you're down and out, when you're on the street
When evening falls so hard, I will comfort you
I'll take your part
Oh, when darkness comes, and pain is all around
Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down
 
Sail on silver girl, sail on by
Your time has come to shine, all your dreams are on their way
See how they shine
Oh, if you need a friend, I'm sailing right behind
Like a bridge over troubled water I will ease your mind
Like a bridge over troubled water I will ease your mind

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