So Beautiful or So What
Paul Simon · 2011
38 min · 10 tracks · folk rock · soft rock
A reflective blend of folk rock and world music, rich with lyrical depth and melodic warmth.
Why this album works
- Best for
- reflective journey through life steady pacing for deep listening lyrical depth for contemplative moments
- Context
- Released in 2011, 'So Beautiful or So What' marked Paul Simon's first studio album in nearly six years, following 'Surprise' (2006). At this point in his career, Simon was exploring themes of spirituality and mortality, reflecting a mature artist still evolving musically while drawing from diverse influences.
- If you like
- folk rock, soft rock
So Beautiful or So What is an album by Paul Simon, released in 2011. A reflective blend of folk rock and world music, rich with lyrical depth and melodic warmth. The album debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and received critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and innovative sound. It was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album, solidifying Simon's continued relevance in the music industry. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does So Beautiful or So What sound like?
A reflective blend of folk rock and world music, rich with lyrical depth and melodic warmth. Rooted in folk rock and soft rock.
What makes So Beautiful or So What by Paul Simon notable?
The album debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and received critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and innovative sound. It was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album, solidifying Simon's continued relevance in the music industry. Released in 2011, 'So Beautiful or So What' marked Paul Simon's first studio album in nearly six years, following 'Surprise' (2006). At this point in his career, Simon was exploring themes of spirituality and mortality, reflecting a mature artist still evolving musically while drawing from diverse influences.
Who is So Beautiful or So What for?
So Beautiful or So What works well if you're into reflective journey through life, steady pacing for deep listening and lyrical depth for contemplative moments.
How many songs are on So Beautiful or So What?
So Beautiful or So What has 10 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Getting Ready for Christmas Day 4:06
- 2 The Afterlife Standout 3:40
- 3 Dazzling Blue Standout 4:32
- 4 Rewrite 3:49
- 5 Love and Hard Times 4:09
- 6 Love Is Eternal Sacred Light 4:02
- 7 Amulet 1:36
- 8 Questions for the Angels Standout 3:49
- 9 Love & Blessings 4:18
- 10 So Beautiful or So What 4:08
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.
