Is Greatest Hits, Etc. a good place to start with Paul Simon?

Yes, Greatest Hits, Etc. is recommended as a starting point for new Paul Simon listeners. A warm blend of introspective lyrics and melodic folk rock, reflecting Simon's masterful storytelling and musical craftsmanship. By the time 'Greatest Hits, Etc.' was released in January 1977, Paul Simon had solidified his status as a solo artist following his split from Art Garfunkel. This compilation came after his critically acclaimed album 'Still Crazy After All These Years' and featured a mix of previously released hits alongside newer tracks, showcasing his evolution in songwriting and sound.

Who is Greatest Hits, Etc. for?

Greatest Hits, Etc. works well if you're into steady reflective listening experience, lyrical storytelling with depth and for afternoon relaxation.

How many songs are on Greatest Hits, Etc.?

Greatest Hits, Etc. has 14 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Greatest Hits, Etc.

Paul Simon · 1977

51 min · 14 tracks · folk rock

A warm blend of introspective lyrics and melodic folk rock, reflecting Simon's masterful storytelling and musical craftsmanship.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Slip Slidin' Away Start here — This track encapsulates the themes of loss and longing that permeate Simon's work, with poignant storytelling and a haunting melody that linger long after listening.
→
Kodachrome — With its infectious rhythm and vivid imagery, this song offers a nostalgic look at life through the lens of memories, embodying Simon's knack for blending catchy melodies with deeper reflections.
→
50 Ways to Leave Your Lover — This track stands out for its clever wordplay and upbeat tempo, presenting relationship woes with a light-hearted yet insightful twist that showcases Simon's lyrical prowess.
→
Still Crazy After All These Years — The title track reflects emotional vulnerability while balancing jazz influences, demonstrating Simon's ability to fuse genres and convey complex feelings in simple terms.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

This compilation showcases Simon's songwriting and production quality but lacks the cohesive narrative of a studio album.

What we noticed

Several songs incorporate intricate arrangements, including layered harmonies and varied instrumentation that highlight Simon's folk rock style.
The sequencing includes both well-known hits and deeper cuts, creating a balance between commercial appeal and artistic expression.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady reflective listening experience
lyrical storytelling with depth
for afternoon relaxation
nostalgic melodies for quiet moments
thoughtful tracks for introspection

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy party vibes
prefer instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This compilation solidified Simon's solo career and included many staple songs.
Themes: nostalgic memory· relationship complexities· aging reflections
Career context: By the time 'Greatest Hits, Etc.' was released in January 1977, Paul Simon had solidified his status as a solo artist following his split from Art Garfunkel. This compilation came after his critically acclaimed album 'Still Crazy After All These Years' and featured a mix of previously released hits alongside newer tracks, showcasing his evolution in songwriting and sound.
Stylistic neighbors: James Taylor· Cat Stevens· Nick Drake