The Ownership of the Song 'Bridge Over Troubled Water': Art Garfunkel's Role and Rights
The iconic song 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' by Simon Garfunkel is one of the most celebrated albums in the world of rock and roll. However, many are curious about the extent of ownership and rights associated with it, especially concerning Art Garfunkel. This article aims to clarify the status of Art Garfunkel in the ownership of the song and the music industry myths surrounding it.
Art Garfunkel's Contribution to 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'
Created in the 1970s, 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' stands as a testament to the timeless and profound lyrics of Paul Simon, the primary composer and lyricist. While Art Garfunkel, the late American folk singer and one-half of Simon Garfunkel, lent his voice to the track, he did not own the song nor hold any exclusive rights to it. Garfunkel's inclusion in the song was a significant contribution to its global appeal, as his clear and emotionally resonant vocals played a crucial role in its enduring success.
The Myth of Ownership
There is a common misconception that Art Garfunkel owned a substantial portion of the song 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' due to the deep emotional connection his voice has to listeners. However, this is a significant misunderstanding. The song was initially written by Paul Simon, the principal creator of Simon Garfunkel's music, and the song remains under Paul Simon's ownership in terms of musical composition.
While Art Garfunkel's involvement in the recording adds to the song's legacy and popularity, his contributions are primarily in the domain of vocal performance. This distinction is crucial to understanding the broader concept of song ownership and the rights associated with it.
Paul Simon's Recent Actions
Further complicating the issue is the recent news regarding Paul Simon selling his entire music catalog. This means that, unless otherwise specified, Paul Simon no longer owns the rights to 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' and other songs from his catalog. This sale by Paul Simon, who is the primary composer and owner of the original musical composition, is a significant change in the landscape of music rights regarding the song.
Conclusion
It is important to recognize that even though Art Garfunkel's voice is an integral part of 'Bridge Over Troubled Water,' he does not own the song or any significant rights to it. His contribution lies in the vocal performance, not the songwriting aspect. The myth of Art Garfunkel owning the song arises from the emotional connection listeners feel to his performance.
Understanding the rights and ownership in the music industry is crucial for artists and music enthusiasts alike. It highlights the importance of distinguishing between the artist's contribution to a song's recording and the songwriter's original composition. For those interested in preserving the integrity and rights of the music they love, understanding these distinctions can provide clarity and appreciation for the true creators behind the music.
In conclusion, while Art Garfunkel's role in 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' was significant, he does not own the song or hold significant rights to it. Recognizing these facts can lead to a greater understanding and appreciation of the complex ecosystem of music creation and ownership in the modern era.