Today in Music History (February 28th)

February 28, 1970 - “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel hits #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for 6 weeks. Written by Paul Simon, it is the biggest hit for the Queens, NY based folk rock duo. Simon initially writes the song with only two verses, but adds a third at the suggestion of Garfunkel and co-producer/engineer Roy Halee. 

Released on January 26, 1970, the single is an immediate smash. Entering the Hot 100 at #49 on February 7, 1970, it rockets to the top of the chart only three weeks later. The single wins two Grammy Awards including Record and Song Of The Year in 1971. 

An iconic song of the era, “Bridge” is covered numerous times over the years, including versions by Aretha Franklin (#1 R&B in 1971), Elvis Presley, Linda Clifford, Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson to name a few. The single release is inducted into the Grammy Hall Of Fame in 1998.

Billboard Hot 100 - Top 100 Singles of 1971 ( Year End Chart )

Simon and Garfunkel in Central Park

Today in 1981 - Simon and Garfunkel reunited for a concert in New York's Central Park. Over 400,000 fans attend the show. The performance was recorded for a record and video release.


In my own humble opinion this concert proved that all the great solo songs that Paul Simon had could easily have been classics for the duo.   This was a great once in a lifetime concert.