The Paul Simon Anthology cover

The Paul Simon Anthology

Paul Simon · 1993

148 min · 36 tracks · folk rock · soft rock

A rich tapestry of folk, rock, and world music showcasing Simon's poignant storytelling and melodic craftsmanship.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • storytelling that invites reflection
  • for nostalgic afternoons
  • engaging sing-alongs with friends
  • rich textures for headphone listening

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking instant gratification tracks
  • prefer standalone singles experience

Where this album fits

Themes
folk-rock evolution· cultural fusion· American storytelling
Career context
By the time 'The Paul Simon Anthology' was released in 1993, Simon had already established himself as a monumental figure in music, both as part of Simon & Garfunkel and as a solo artist. This compilation follows his successful album 'Graceland' (1986) and reflects on his extensive catalog, highlighting his evolution from folk-rock roots to incorporating world music influences.
Stylistic neighbors
James Taylor· Cat Stevens· Nick Drake
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Diamonds & Rust by Joan Baez — Shares a similar storytelling depth and folk roots, blending personal narrative with cultural reflection.
Feelings by David Byrne — Explores cross-cultural influences and melodic craftsmanship, akin to Simon's world music elements.
Songs of Leonard Cohen by Leonard Cohen — Features introspective lyrics and a rich atmospheric sound that complements Simon's poignant storytelling.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 The Sound of Silence 3:06
  • 2 Cecilia 2:54
  • 3 El Condor Pasa 3:06
  • 4 The Boxer 5:08
  • 5 Mrs. Robinson 3:54
  • 6 Bridge Over Troubled Water 4:49
  • 7 Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard 2:42
  • 8 Peace Like a River 3:16
  • 9 Mother and Child Reunion 2:59
  • 10 American Tune 3:44
  • 11 Loves Me Like a Rock 3:18
  • 12 Kodachrome 3:30
  • 13 Gone at Last 3:29
  • 14 Still Crazy After All These Years 3:50
  • 15 Something So Right 4:30
  • 16 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover 3:06
  • 17 Slip Slidin’ Away 4:44
  • 18 Late in the Evening 3:55
  • 19 Hearts and Bones 5:39
  • 20 Rene and Georgette Magritte With Their Dog After the War 3:43

Disc 2

  • 1 The Boy in the Bubble 4:01
  • 2 Graceland 4:50
  • 3 Under African Skies 3:37
  • 4 That Was Your Mother 2:53
  • 5 Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes 5:48
  • 6 You Can Call Me Al 4:42
  • 7 Homeless 3:50
  • 8 Spirit Voices 3:58
  • 9 The Obvious Child 4:10
  • 10 Can’t Run But 3:36
  • 11 Thelma 4:16
  • 12 Further to Fly 5:35
  • 13 She Moves On 4:57
  • 14 Born at the Right Time 5:08
  • 15 The Cool, Cool River 5:44
  • 16 The Sound of Silence 5:41

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata