Simon & Garfunkel - Bridge Over Troubled Water at Alaeddin’s Blog

A little blast from the past. I’m quite young and I haven’t lived through those times, but every so often a song comes along that gives you a taste of what glorious times those years were, musically.

Bridge Over Troubled Water, by Simon & Garfunkel, is a timeless testament to what I’m talking about, having won numerous awards and covered by numerous artists. And it’s not your typical trashy song that gets popular because of how “hip” it is, the lyrics in this one are so inspirational that it has a way of getting into everybody. It’s about a friend who vows to always be there for you in good and bad. A “bridge” that can help you get over the rough times in your life.

What I really like about this song is how it starts and ends. At the beginning, he sings in a really soft and touching voice:

When you’re weary, feeling small, when tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all.

This phrase, along with the accompanying piano keys, gets you going and wanting to hear the rest.

He continues by painting a wonderful picture:

I’m on your side. When times get rough and friends just can’t be found, like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down.

In a magical way, this phrase reaches into your troubled mind with a grip of surety that it’s all going to be okay and you should worry no more.

The song then climaxes beautifully with him singing in a strong vibrant voice that grasps you from top to bottom:

Sail on silvergirl,
Sail on by.
Your time has come to shine.
All your dreams are on their way.
See how they shine.
If you need a friend
I’m sailing right behind.
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind.
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind