The Ultimate Collection cover

The Ultimate Collection

Paul Simon · 2015

77 min · 19 tracks · folk rock · soft rock

A rich tapestry of folk and rock, blending poignant storytelling with world music influences.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • nostalgic sing-along moments
  • dynamic collection of hits
  • poignant storytelling across tracks
  • wave-like pacing for reflection
  • for road trip playlists

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer single-track listening
  • need fast-paced excitement

Where this album fits

Themes
Graceland rhythms· Simon & Garfunkel nostalgia· identity exploration· cultural fusion
Career context
Released in 2015, 'The Ultimate Collection' serves as a retrospective of Paul Simon's illustrious career, showcasing his evolution from the Simon & Garfunkel duo to solo stardom. It encapsulates key moments from his early hits in the 1960s through to the more experimental sounds of the late 20th century, highlighting his enduring impact on popular music.
Stylistic neighbors
James Taylor· Cat Stevens· Nick Drake
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Rumours by Fleetwood Mac — Shares rich storytelling and harmonies alongside a blend of folk-rock and soft rock elements.
American Utopia by David Byrne — Explores cultural fusion and identity with innovative rhythms and reflective lyrics.
Blue by Joni Mitchell — Similar introspective themes and poignant storytelling through a folk-infused soundscape.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 You Can Call Me Al 4:41
  • 2 Graceland 4:50
  • 3 Mrs. Robinson 4:01
  • 4 The Boxer 5:08
  • 5 Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes 5:49
  • 6 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover 3:38
  • 7 Cecilia 2:56
  • 8 Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard 2:44
  • 9 The Boy in the Bubble 4:01
  • 10 The Only Living Boy in New York 3:58
  • 11 Mother and Child Reunion 3:06
  • 12 Late in the Evening 4:03
  • 13 Father and Daughter 4:12
  • 14 The Obvious Child 4:11
  • 15 Slip Slidin' Away 4:46
  • 16 America 3:35
  • 17 The Sound of Silence (Overdubbed version) 3:06
  • 18 Still Crazy After All These Years 3:26
  • 19 Bridge Over Troubled Water 4:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata