Paul Simon's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Paul Simon.

Paul Simon is an influential American singer-songwriter, most famously known as one half of the duo Simon & Garfunkel. Rising to prominence in the 1960s, they created a distinctive folk-rock sound with iconic songs like "The Sound of Silence" and "Mrs. Robinson," which resonated with the counterculture movement. Their final album, Bridge over Troubled Water, achieved massive commercial success and remains a landmark in music history. Simon later pursued a successful solo career, further solidifying his legacy as a prominent figure in popular music.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1986: Honorary Degree from Berklee College of Music

In 1986, Paul Simon received an Honorary Doctor of Music degree from Berklee College of Music, where he had previously served on the board of trustees, recognizing his contributions to music.

1987: Graceland wins Grammy Award

In 1987, Paul Simon's album "Graceland" won the Grammy for Album of the Year, marking a significant achievement in his career.

1990: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Simon & Garfunkel

In 1990, Paul Simon was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Simon & Garfunkel, marking a significant career milestone.

1990: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

In 1990, Simon and Garfunkel were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

August 15, 1991: Concert in Central Park with African and South American Bands

On August 15, 1991, Paul Simon staged a second concert in Central Park with African and South American bands, attracting over 750,000 people, leading to a live album and an Emmy-winning TV special.

2001: Honored as MusiCares Person of the Year

In 2001, Paul Simon was honored as MusiCares Person of the Year.

2001: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for solo career

In 2001, Paul Simon was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his solo career, solidifying his impact as a solo artist.

2002: Recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors

In 2002, Paul Simon was one of five recipients of the annual Kennedy Center Honors, the nation's highest tribute to performing and cultural artists.

2003: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and US Tour

In 2003, Simon and Garfunkel performed together again when they received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, which led to a US tour, the acclaimed "Old Friends" concert series.

2005: Honored at the 53rd Annual BMI Pop Awards

In 2005, Paul Simon was honored at the 53rd Annual BMI Pop Awards for his songwriting catalog, which earned 39 BMI Awards. His songs such as "Bridge over Troubled Water", "Mrs. Robinson", "Scarborough Fair" and "The Sound of Silence" received numerous citations. By this time, he had amassed nearly 75 million broadcast airplays, according to BMI surveys.

2006: Named one of the "100 People Who Shaped the World" by Time

In 2006, Paul Simon was recognized by Time as one of the "100 People Who Shaped the World", highlighting his cultural influence.

2006: Selected as one of the "100 People Who Shaped the World" by Time Magazine

In 2006, Paul Simon was selected by Time Magazine as one of the "100 People Who Shaped the World", acknowledging his influence and impact.

2007: Recipient of the Library of Congress's Gershwin Prize for Popular Song

In 2007, Paul Simon became the first recipient of the Library of Congress's Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, an award recognizing the profound and positive effect of popular music on the world's culture.