Paul Simon's Solo Debut: The Story Behind The Paul Simon Songbook

Paul Simon's Solo Debut: The Story Behind The Paul Simon Songbook

Paul Simon's first solo album, The Paul Simon Songbook, was released in the U.K. 60 years ago this month. The album was recorded in London in June 1965, during a period when Simon & Garfunkel's future as a duo was uncertain. Simon used only one microphone for his vocals and acoustic guitar on the album, showcasing his talent as a solo artist. The collection included solo versions of songs that would later be re-recorded by Simon & Garfunkel for their subsequent albums.

Simon, who was touring the U.K. as a solo artist while Art Garfunkel was in college, recorded The Paul Simon Songbook for Columbia Records' U.K. label, CBS Records. The album featured reworked versions of songs from Simon & Garfunkel's earlier works, as well as some tracks that were never recorded by the duo. The cover of the album featured a photo of Simon with his then-girlfriend, Kathy Chitty, who inspired some of his well-known songs.

The Paul Simon Songbook was not released in the U.S. until 1969, and it was briefly available before being recalled due to Simon's objections. In 1981, the album was included in the Collected Works box set and later released as a standalone CD with two bonus tracks. Simon is currently on his A Quiet Celebration Tour, with two upcoming shows in Seattle on August 5 and 6, which will be filmed for possible broadcast.

In conclusion, The Paul Simon Songbook marked a significant milestone in Paul Simon's career as a solo artist, showcasing his musical talent and paving the way for his future collaborations with Art Garfunkel. The album's release in the U.K. and eventual availability in the U.S. added to Simon's legacy as a folk-rock legend.