October 25, 2001. Copyright, 2001, Graphic News. All rights reserved

The man with the haunting voice turns 60
By Mark Samms

LONDON, October 25, Graphic News:  THERE is an air of serenity about Art Garfunkel that has served him well over the years. It could be an image created by the halo of golden curls, the contented smile and the flawless voice.

But it could also be something to do with his having to endure almost 40 years of being regarded as Òthe other oneÓ in the most popular and prolific double act in the history of modern music, and still managing to come out at the other end as a well-adjusted human being.

The career of Simon and Garfunkel is sprinkled with awards and studded with a succession of glorious songs, all of which were composed by Paul Simon. But it was Art GarfunkelÕs voice that imprinted them in the psyche of millions across the world.

Once described by a leading critic as a Òbeautiful counter-tenorÓ it has enhanced the soaring melodies of many of the worldÕs greatest contemporary writers, including Jim Webb, Van Morrison and James Taylor. It has also brought him a degree of solo accomplishment many thought unlikely during the periods he and Simon were not working together.

Indeed, the secret of GarfunkelÕs individual success has been his unerring ability to spot quality songs that suited his voice and appealed to the public taste. Bright Eyes I Only Have Eyes for You, and Crying in the Rain are typical examples.

But there is more to Art Garfunkel than mere troubador. As he approaches his 60th birthday he can look back on a life that has included family and academic success as well as artistic achievement.

He is a dedicated husband and father, a trained mathematician, an actor, a writer and a man who has learned to share his love of the world. He has trekked across America and Japan, writing as he goes and eagerly sharing the sense of discovery and wonderment he experienced en route.

Art Garfunkel has achieved much, but with someone like him there is always a feeling of more yet to come.
/ENDS