Art Garfunkel recalls emotional reunion with Paul Simon ‘to make amends’

Art Garfunkel and Paul Simon, the legendary duo behind Simon & Garfunkel, are taking steps to rebuild their fractured relationship after years of estrangement. The two musicians, whose partnership shaped some of the most iconic songs of the 1960s, recently reunited for the first time in many years. Garfunkel shared the details of their emotional meeting in an interview with The Sunday Times, revealing how their lunch together marked a significant moment in healing their past rift.

According to Garfunkel, the reunion was long overdue, and during their conversation, he asked Simon why they had been estranged for so long. Simon’s response, as Garfunkel recalled, was tied to an old interview in which Garfunkel had made comments that deeply hurt his former partner. Garfunkel admitted he was unaware of the extent of the pain caused by his words and was moved to tears when Simon opened up about it. “I cried when he told me how much I had hurt him,” Garfunkel said. “Looking back, I guess I wanted to shake up the nice guy image of Simon & Garfunkel. Y’know what? I was a fool!”

Though Garfunkel didn’t specify which interview he was referring to, it’s clear that the conversation stirred deep emotions. The two musicians, who first met as children in Queens, New York, formed Simon & Garfunkel in the late 1950s, going on to become one of the most successful and influential musical acts of their era. Their songs, including “The Sound of Silence”, “Mrs. Robinson”, and “America”, are still revered today.

The duo’s success was marked by numerous chart-topping albums and nine Grammy Awards. However, despite their musical success, their personal relationship was often strained. After years of creative differences and personal tensions, Simon and Garfunkel split in 1970, and their collaboration ceased. Their professional split was complicated by personal animosities, and the two have rarely worked together in the years since.

The last time they performed live together was in 2010, when they participated in a tribute to director Mike Nichols, who had featured their music in his 1967 film The Graduate, which helped propel them to worldwide fame. Following that performance, however, Garfunkel and Simon parted ways once more, with no public indication of reconciliation.

In his recent interview, Garfunkel reflected on the impact of their reunion, noting that it felt like a return to a “wonderful place.” He expressed his desire to make amends with Simon before it was too late. “For me, it was about wanting to make amends before it’s too late,” Garfunkel said. “It felt like we were back in a wonderful place.” His emotions were evident as he spoke about the reunion, with Garfunkel admitting that the experience had moved him to tears. “As I think about it now, tears are rolling down my cheeks. I can still feel his hug.”

While the reunion didn’t include making music together, it was a crucial step in repairing their relationship. Garfunkel emphasized that he was focused on reconciliation and emotional healing, rather than the prospect of reviving their musical partnership. Although it remains uncertain whether they will ever record or perform together again, Garfunkel expressed hope for the future. “We’re talking about seeing each other again, and I’m glad we’re doing that,” he said.

Garfunkel’s admission of his past mistakes and the emotional weight of their reunion suggest that, despite their years of separation, both musicians are open to rebuilding their bond. It’s a testament to the enduring power of their friendship, which had long been overshadowed by misunderstandings and disagreements. Whether or not Simon and Garfunkel will reunite musically remains unclear, but their recent meeting offers a hopeful glimpse into the possibility of mending their once-legendary partnership.

Their story, one of unparalleled musical success and personal turmoil, is far from over. The emotional reunion between Garfunkel and Simon is a reminder that even the most iconic relationships can face challenges, but they can also heal with time, effort, and a willingness to understand each other. Fans of Simon & Garfunkel may hold out hope for new music, but for now, the two are focused on their personal connection—one that, after all these years, seems ready to flourish once more.