In Any Way You Can, Be A “Bridge Over Troubled Water”

“Bridge over Troubled Water” is  Simon and Garfunkel’s biggest recorded hit single, so far. Being considered as their signature song, people often remember the name of the country duo alongside with their hits such as “Sound of Silence” and “The Boxer.” The single spent six glorious weeks on top of the Billboard Hot 100. It has an impressive record of selling over six million copies worldwide. Outside the US, the song as well topped the charts in eight different countries including Canada, France,  United Kingdom, and New Zealand.

The half of the duo, Simon wrote the song for a very short period of time. The lyrics came from Claude Jeter’s line, “I’ll be your bridge over troubled water if you trust in me.” The line is from the song, “Mary Don’t You Weep.” Jeter’s band, the Swan Silverstones, sang the track on one of their concerts back in the year 1958. As for Simon, he initially wrote the song with guitar accompaniment. Later on, he decided to use the piano for a better reflect on the reflective content and to suit Garfunkel’s voice.

Upon its release, the song has become one of the most covered, and most performed songs in the twentieth century. Over 50 artists from different genres have recorded the song as a single of their albums. Among these artists, two of the most notable cover were recorded by Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin. Rolling Stone ranked it as the number 48 of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Times.

Bridge Over Troubled Water was the last album Simon & Garfunkel released before they split up.

It’s not just a song, it’s an inspiration

The song reminds us that we are all capable of helping our fellows. Despite our personal unending needs, we were favored with better situations compared to others. In our own little ways, we can always spread the spirit of generosity. How about sharing your spare food to the children on the street, or holding an old man’s hand while crossing the street? Ain’t that a simple act of kindness, but it greatly affect the receiver. Through these simple thoughts, we remind others that they are not alone and hope is just hanging around the corner.

Oh when darkness comes
And pain is all around

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