What is the best Paul Simon album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Graceland" (1986). It's the most representative of what makes Paul Simon worth hearing.

What are the best Paul Simon albums?

The essential Paul Simon albums include "The Paul Simon Songbook" (1965), "Paul Simon" (1972), "There Goes Rhymin' Simon" (1973), "Kodachrome" (1973) and "Paul Simon in Concert: Live Rhymin'" (1974).

How many albums does Paul Simon have?

Paul Simon has 46 releases in their discography, including 30 albums.

Photo: Matthew Straubmuller (imatty35) · CC BY 2.0

Paul Simon

Q: Who is Paul Simon for?

If you're into folk rock and soft rock, Paul Simon is worth your time. Simon’s music layers rhythmic intricacies with reflective melodies, creating moments where tension builds before cascading into serene resolutions.

Simon’s music layers rhythmic intricacies with reflective melodies, creating moments where tension builds before cascading into serene resolutions.

folk rock · soft rock

United States

Read about Paul Simon on Bookshop

Start here

The album

Graceland (1986)

Captures Simon's blend of folk rock and world music with intricate rhythms, making it an accessible entry point into his diverse sound.

The song

“You Can Call Me Al”

Immediate hook and catchy melody introduce Simon's style, showcasing his rhythmic intricacies and reflective lyrics effectively.

Where to go

Start here

Graceland

1986

Catchy tunes with rich storytelling.

Play this

Defining move

Paul Simon

1972

His first solo album, establishing his sound.

Play this

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"The Sound of Silence" — from The Paul Simon Anthology (1993)

establishes the sonic palette early
2

"The Obvious Child" — from The Rhythm of the Saints (1990)

establishes the sonic palette early
3

"Kodachrome" — from This Better Be Good (2009)

establishes the sonic palette early
4

"That’s Where I Belong" — from You're the One (2000)

establishes the sonic palette early
5

"Mother and Child Reunion" — from The Essential Paul Simon (2007)

accessible entry with immediate hook
6

"Still Crazy After All These Years" — from Still Crazy After All These Years (1975)

accessible entry with immediate hook

About Paul Simon

Paul Simon’s significance lies in his ability to weave personal and social narratives into the fabric of popular music, redefining what it means to tell stories through song.

His work has influenced generations of songwriters who see music as a medium for exploration and connection, transcending traditional boundaries to encompass a tapestry of human experience.

His work has influenced generations of songwriters who see music as a medium for exploration and connection, transcending traditional boundaries to encompass a tapestry of human experience. By embracing diverse musical influences, Simon has created a sound that feels at once familiar and refreshingly new, prompting listeners to reflect on their own lives while engaging with broader societal themes. In his creative process, Simon often collaborates with various musicians and draws inspiration from different cultures, which adds depth and texture to his compositions. This willingness to experiment with arrangements and instrumentation reveals a commitment to pushing sonic boundaries while maintaining an accessible warmth that invites engagement. Each album acts as a chapter in his ongoing exploration of identity, relationships, and the human condition, showcasing a blend of introspective lyricism with an inviting melodic sensibility. Lyrically, Simon frequently delves into themes of love, loss, and existential contemplation, employing a storytelling approach that balances sincerity with an underlying irony. His voice resonates with authenticity, guiding listeners through vivid imagery and relatable situations that invite reflection. Often using conversational language, his lyrics evoke a sense of intimacy that fosters a connection between songwriter and audience.

30 studio albums· 46 total releases· 6 decades· United States