Few musical duos have left as lasting an impact as Simon & Garfunkel. Known for their intricate harmonies, poetic lyricism, and evocative storytelling, their music transcends generations. One of their most introspective and emotionally resonant tracks, “The Only Living Boy in New York,” stands as a testament to their artistic brilliance. Featured on their 1970 album Bridge Over Troubled Water, this song is a deeply personal reflection by Paul Simon, written during the final days of the duo’s collaboration. This review explores the song’s place within the album, its instrumentation, and why it continues to captivate listeners more than five decades later.
The Album Bridge Over Troubled Water: A Farewell Masterpiece
Bridge Over Troubled Water, released in January 1970, was the final studio album by Simon & Garfunkel before their split. Widely regarded as one of the greatest albums in popular music history, it showcased the duo at their creative peak. The record blended folk, rock, gospel, and orchestral elements, resulting in a profound and deeply moving collection of songs.
From the soaring title track to the bittersweet optimism of “El Condor Pasa”, the album reflects themes of change, separation, and emotional resilience. “The Only Living Boy in New York” fits seamlessly within this context, serving as a contemplative farewell song that captures Paul Simon’s emotions as he prepared for a solo career while Art Garfunkel pursued acting. It is one of the album’s most emotionally raw moments, infused with melancholy yet tinged with a sense of acceptance.
Instrumentation and Sound: A Rich and Layered Production
One of the most striking aspects of “The Only Living Boy in New York” is its unique and carefully layered sound. Unlike some of Simon & Garfunkel’s more folk-oriented tracks, this piece of music incorporates a broad and atmospheric arrangement that enhances its introspective tone.
Guitar Work: The Foundation of the Track
At its core, the song is built around an open and airy guitar progression that establishes its dreamy, reflective atmosphere. The acoustic guitar is played with a gentle rhythm, giving the song a free-flowing, almost meditative quality. The subtle strumming combined with reverb creates an expansive soundscape, allowing the listener to feel as though they are immersed in a vast, empty city.
Piano and Atmospheric Effects
In addition to the guitar, the song employs a distant yet effective use of piano, particularly in the background harmonies and instrumental layering. The piano notes add depth and emotion, subtly enhancing the song’s wistful nature without overpowering the melody. The production also features atmospheric studio effects, including echoing vocal harmonies and distant reverb, creating a sense of loneliness and longing that mirrors the song’s lyrical themes.
Vocal Harmonies: A Signature Touch
One of the song’s most memorable elements is its ethereal vocal harmonies. Garfunkel’s voice, layered with Simon’s, creates a celestial, almost hymn-like effect during the chorus. These harmonies, recorded with heavy reverb, evoke a feeling of vastness—perhaps reflecting the isolation Simon felt as he penned this song. The contrast between the sparse verses and the expansive, soaring choruses further emphasizes the emotional weight of the track.
Lyrical Depth: A Song of Loneliness and Change
Paul Simon wrote “The Only Living Boy in New York” as a direct message to Art Garfunkel, who was away in Mexico filming the movie Catch-22. The lyrics encapsulate feelings of solitude and bittersweet acceptance:
“Tom, get your plane right on time / I know your part’ll go fine / Fly down to Mexico.”
The reference to “Tom” is a nod to their early days when they performed as Tom & Jerry, emphasizing the deep history and friendship between the two musicians. The lyrics capture a mixture of sadness, longing, and nostalgia, as Simon comes to terms with the growing distance between them. The repeated refrain:
“I get the news I need on the weather report.”
reinforces the sense of isolation, as if the protagonist’s only connection to the outside world is through impersonal broadcasts.
Why This Song Stands Out
“The Only Living Boy in New York” is a song that beautifully conveys loneliness without sounding overly despairing. Instead, it carries a quiet resilience, reflecting a person coming to terms with change. The spacious production, intimate lyrics, and deeply felt performance make it one of Simon & Garfunkel’s most poignant tracks.
Moreover, the song’s universal theme of feeling left behind resonates with anyone who has experienced change, separation, or the uncertainty of moving forward alone. It remains one of the defining moments on Bridge Over Troubled Water, encapsulating the emotions that marked the end of an era for Simon & Garfunkel.
Similar Songs for Fans of This Track
For those who love “The Only Living Boy in New York,” here are some similar songs that capture its reflective and melancholic essence:
- “America” – Simon & Garfunkel: A poetic and deeply evocative journey across the country, filled with longing and nostalgia.
- “A Heart in New York” – Art Garfunkel: A solo track that carries a similar theme of urban solitude and self-reflection.
- “The Boxer” – Simon & Garfunkel: Another masterpiece from Bridge Over Troubled Water, detailing struggle and perseverance through haunting lyrics and powerful instrumentals.
- “Fire and Rain” – James Taylor: A melancholic folk ballad that mirrors the same introspective storytelling.
- “Going to California” – Led Zeppelin: A dreamy and poetic reflection on change and longing, with a similar acoustic foundation.
- “The Sound of Silence” – Simon & Garfunkel: While more somber in tone, this song shares the introspective lyricism and haunting harmonies that define their style.
Conclusion
Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Only Living Boy in New York” is a timeless piece of music that captures the delicate balance between loneliness and acceptance. As part of the legendary Bridge Over Troubled Water album, it stands as one of the most heartfelt and personal songs in their catalog. The combination of guitar, piano, ethereal harmonies, and poetic lyrics makes it a standout track that continues to resonate with listeners decades later.
Whether you’re rediscovering this song or hearing it for the first time, its depth and emotional honesty are undeniable. It serves as a reminder of Simon & Garfunkel’s unique ability to blend introspective storytelling with beautifully crafted melodies. For anyone who has ever felt alone in a vast city or faced an uncertain future, “The Only Living Boy in New York” remains a touching and unforgettable musical experience.