Paul Simon's Musical Influences: A Journey Through the Era of Rhythm and Blues
Paul Simon, a legendary figure in popular music, has had a profound impact on the music industry as both a member of Simon & Garfunkel and a successful solo artist. In a recent interview on Alchemy with Anthony Mason, Simon reflected on the artists who influenced his musical taste and the era of music that continues to inspire him. Simon cited Elvis Presley, Little Richard, Fats Domino, Chuck Berry, and the Everly Brothers as some of his early favorites, particularly drawn to rhythm and blues.
Looking back on his formative years, Simon pinpointed the years between 1954 and 1957 as the period that had the most significant influence on his creative sound. He expressed a preference for the raw early recordings of Elvis Presley on Sun Records, such as "That's All Right," "Mama," and "Mystery Train," which were aimed at an older audience and not tailored to teenagers like the later pop music of the late 1950s.
Simon contrasted the earlier era of music with the shift towards teen-focused pop in the late 1950s, driven by television shows like American Bandstand and host Dick Clark. He noted that even artists he admired, like the Everly Brothers, were pushed towards lighter material aimed at younger audiences, such as "Wake Up Little Susie."
When asked about the latest Elvis concert film, Simon expressed disinterest, stating that he did not want to see it. He criticized the later material and movies of Elvis after 1957, viewing them as a missed opportunity for the talented artist. Simon believed that Elvis's potential was squandered with the direction his career took post-1957.
In conclusion, Paul Simon's reflections on the music that shaped his early years and the era that influenced his creative sound offer insight into his musical journey and the impact of different musical styles on his career. His admiration for the raw, authentic recordings of artists like Elvis Presley highlights his appreciation for music that resonates with a broader audience beyond just teenagers.