Few musical reunions stir the heart quite like the idea of Simon & Garfunkel reuniting for a tour. The legendary folk-rock duo defined an era with songs like The Sound of Silence, Bridge Over Troubled Water, and America. Their harmonies shaped generations—but their relationship has been anything but harmonious.
As time marches on, the question continues to surface: Will Simon and Garfunkel ever tour again?
Let’s explore the history, the tension, the rumors, and the reality of this enduring question.
A Complicated History of Harmony and Discord
To understand the future, we need to look back at the journey of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel.
- 1950s – They met in school in Queens, New York, and began performing as “Tom & Jerry.”
- 1960s – Rose to stardom with hits that became anthems of a generation.
- 1970 – Split after the release of Bridge Over Troubled Water.
- 1981 – Reunited for The Concert in Central Park, drawing over 500,000 fans.
- 2003–2004 – Toured the world, rekindling hope of a permanent reunion.
- 2010 – Garfunkel’s vocal cord issues halted plans for future shows.
- 2018 – Paul Simon announced retirement from touring.
Their path has been marked by brilliance and bitterness—brilliant music, bitter disputes.
Why Fans Still Hold On to Hope
Even after decades of turbulence, the dream of one more Simon and Garfunkel tour won’t go away. Why?
1. Their Legacy is Timeless
The music of Simon & Garfunkel transcends generations. New fans continue to discover their work through films, television, and streaming. Their influence on folk, rock, and pop is undeniable.
2. Reunions Have Happened Before
From their epic Central Park concert to unexpected appearances at the Grammys and charity events, they’ve surprised us before. Hope thrives in history.
3. The Desire for Closure
Many longtime fans want a final bow—a farewell that celebrates their impact and offers a moment of reconciliation.
The Obstacles Standing in the Way
Despite the hope, a Simon & Garfunkel reunion tour is not without its serious roadblocks.
Creative and Personal Tensions
Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel have a famously strained relationship. Though Garfunkel has spoken publicly about wanting to reunite, Simon has often been more reserved or dismissive. Old wounds from artistic differences and personal misunderstandings continue to linger.
In a 2015 interview, Garfunkel joked that Simon was a “jerk” for breaking up the duo—though the undertone felt more sad than playful.
Health Challenges
In 2010, Garfunkel suffered vocal cord paresis, which took years to recover from. Though he’s returned to the stage solo, his voice has not regained its former strength.
Paul Simon, now in his 80s, revealed in 2023 that he lost most of the hearing in his left ear—making live performance difficult.
Paul Simon’s Retirement
Simon officially retired from touring in 2018, citing the physical and emotional toll of life on the road. While he hasn’t ruled out isolated performances, he’s made it clear that full tours are unlikely.
Have They Said Anything Recently?
Art Garfunkel has remained more open to the idea. In interviews, he’s expressed a deep longing to reconnect with Paul both musically and personally.
“I want to rejoin Paul Simon. I want to make music with him again.”
Paul Simon, on the other hand, has offered more definitive answers. In recent interviews, he’s expressed little interest in revisiting the partnership.
“I don’t think about it much. That chapter is closed.”
Could There Be a One-Off Performance?
While a full-scale Simon and Garfunkel tour is unlikely, a one-time performance is still a distant possibility. A major tribute event, a benefit concert, or a farewell documentary special might tempt them to share the stage one last time.
But it would take more than an opportunity—it would require a healing of old wounds, and the right emotional setting for it to feel genuine.
The Music Lives On
Tour or not, Simon & Garfunkel’s music remains immortal. Their harmonies and lyricism continue to shape musicians and soothe listeners. Whether they reunite or not, their songs remain a permanent fixture in musical history.
Final Thoughts: Never Say Never?
So, will Simon and Garfunkel tour again? All signs point to no.
But if we’ve learned anything from their long, winding history, it’s that surprises are never off the table. While a full tour may be unlikely, one magical night of harmony isn’t impossible.
Until then, their legacy tours in every pair of headphones, car speaker, and record player that spins The Boxer or Homeward Bound.
And maybe that’s the reunion that matters most.
What do you think? Let me know in the comments!