Art Garfunkel is a name that resonates with music lovers around the world due to his distinctive voice and his iconic partnership with Paul Simon in the legendary duo Simon & Garfunkel. Known for creating some of the most beloved and timeless songs of the 1960s, Garfunkel’s voice became synonymous with the folk and rock genres. His musical legacy, combined with his ventures in acting and his lasting influence on pop culture, has cemented his place as one of the most respected figures in music history. As of recent years, many fans have wondered: “Is Art Garfunkel still alive?” This article will explore his life, health, career, and enduring legacy in the worlds of music and film.
Early Life and Education
Born in Forest Hills, Queens
Art Garfunkel was born on November 5, 1941, in Forest Hills, Queens, New York City, to Jacob and Rose Garfunkel. Growing up in a middle-class Jewish family, Garfunkel’s early life was influenced by a rich cultural background. His father was a traveling salesman, while his mother was a housewife. Garfunkel’s early interest in music and performance was encouraged by his family, and he quickly became drawn to the art of singing.
He attended Forest Hills High School, where he became friends with Paul Simon, a relationship that would later transform the music industry. The two formed a musical partnership while in high school, initially performing as a duo known as “Tom & Jerry,” and even recording some early songs. This friendship laid the groundwork for their future success as Simon & Garfunkel, with Garfunkel’s powerful, angelic voice complementing Simon’s melodic songwriting.
Education and Early Musical Influences
Art Garfunkel went on to study architecture at Columbia University, where he continued to hone his musical talents while balancing his academic pursuits. At Columbia, Garfunkel met Simon again, and the two began performing together once more. Their musical bond deepened as they played and sang at various local venues, eventually leading to the formation of Simon & Garfunkel as we know them today. Despite initially pursuing a career in architecture, Garfunkel’s love for music became his primary focus, setting him on a path to stardom.
Rise to Fame: Simon & Garfunkel and Their Iconic Sound
The Formation of Simon & Garfunkel
In the early 1960s, Art Garfunkel and Paul Simon officially formed Simon & Garfunkel, a folk duo that would go on to achieve monumental success. Their breakthrough came with the release of their album Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme (1966), which included the hit single The Sound of Silence. The song quickly became a cultural phenomenon and established the duo as one of the most significant acts of the 1960s.
The duo’s ability to combine poetic lyrics with lush harmonies made them stand out in the folk and rock scenes. Garfunkel’s distinctive, ethereal voice played a crucial role in the duo’s sound, creating some of the most memorable and emotional music of the decade. The Sound of Silence, Bridge Over Troubled Water, and Scarborough Fair became staples of their repertoire, and their music became the soundtrack for an entire generation.
Bridge Over Troubled Water and Global Success
In 1970, Simon & Garfunkel released their most famous and commercially successful album, Bridge Over Troubled Water, which featured the iconic title track. The song became a worldwide hit and remains one of the most beloved ballads of all time. The album went on to become one of the best-selling albums of all time, solidifying the duo’s status as one of the most influential musical acts in history.
However, despite their success, tensions between Garfunkel and Simon began to grow, and the duo broke up in 1970. This marked the end of an era for Simon & Garfunkel, but their music continued to resonate with fans around the world. Both Garfunkel and Simon embarked on solo careers, with Garfunkel releasing several successful solo albums.
Solo Career and Acting Ventures
Successful Solo Career
Following the breakup of Simon & Garfunkel, Art Garfunkel pursued a solo music career, releasing albums like Angel Clare (1973), which featured the hit single All I Know. His solo work was well-received, and he was able to maintain a loyal following due to his distinct voice and emotive songwriting. While he didn’t replicate the enormous success of Simon & Garfunkel, Garfunkel’s solo work continued to enjoy critical success and solidified his place as a respected musician in his own right.
Garfunkel’s solo music drew from his folk roots, but he also experimented with pop, rock, and soft rock sounds. He released several albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, with songs like I Shall Sing and Bright Eyes becoming fan favorites.
Acting Career
In addition to his work in music, Art Garfunkel also pursued acting. He appeared in several films, including Catch-22 (1970), based on the novel by Joseph Heller. Garfunkel played the role of Nately, one of the soldiers in the film’s ensemble cast. His performance was well-received, and he went on to appear in other films, including Bad Timing (1980) and The Last Temptation of Christ (1988), where he played the role of the apostle Philip.
While Garfunkel’s acting career never reached the heights of his musical success, his forays into film showcased his versatility as a performer and contributed to his legacy as a multi-talented entertainer.
Personal Life and Health Challenges
Relationships and Family Life
Art Garfunkel has had a fairly private personal life. He was married to Linda Marie Grossman in 1972, but the couple eventually divorced in 1975. In 1988, Garfunkel married Kathryn “Kim” Cermak, with whom he has two children. Despite his fame and success, Garfunkel has largely kept his family life out of the public eye, preferring to focus on his music and career.
Garfunkel’s personal life, particularly his relationship with Paul Simon, has been the subject of much speculation over the years. While the two have had a tumultuous relationship marked by creative tensions and disagreements, they have reunited several times for performances, including during the 1980s and 2000s. Their bond as musical collaborators remains one of the most significant partnerships in music history.
Health Struggles
In recent years, Art Garfunkel has faced several health challenges. In 2010, Garfunkel was diagnosed with a vocal cord issue that required surgery. This condition, which affected his ability to sing, forced him to cancel several performances and take a hiatus from performing. The vocal cord issues also led to some complications in his ability to speak, but Garfunkel has since made a recovery and has returned to performing sporadically.
Despite these health challenges, Garfunkel remains active and continues to perform on occasion, often revisiting his classic hits with Simon & Garfunkel and solo songs. His commitment to his craft and his fans has earned him respect and admiration from both his peers and his audience.
Is Art Garfunkel Still Alive? Health and Current Status
Current Health and Retirement
As of 2025, Art Garfunkel is still alive, although he has largely stepped back from public performances in recent years. His health issues, particularly with his vocal cords, have limited his ability to tour as extensively as he once did. However, he continues to be a respected figure in the music world, and his contributions to Simon & Garfunkel and his solo work are widely recognized and celebrated.
In interviews, Garfunkel has expressed his desire to enjoy a more private life and focus on other interests, including writing and spending time with his family. While he may not be as active in the public eye as in his earlier years, his health remains stable, and he has largely maintained his characteristic optimism.
Occasional Public Appearances
Though Art Garfunkel is not actively touring, he does make occasional public appearances and performances. He has been known to give interviews, share his reflections on his career, and occasionally perform a few of his beloved songs. Garfunkel’s fans continue to show their appreciation for his contributions to music, and his appearances are met with excitement and admiration.
Art Garfunkel’s Legacy
Simon & Garfunkel and the Legacy of Their Music
Art Garfunkel’s most significant contribution to music is undoubtedly his work as part of Simon & Garfunkel. The duo’s music, which includes timeless songs like Bridge Over Troubled Water, The Sound of Silence, and Mrs. Robinson, has left an indelible mark on the history of popular music. Their harmonious blend of folk, rock, and poetry created a sound that resonated with millions of fans and continues to be celebrated today.
Their music, particularly Bridge Over Troubled Water, remains a staple of American culture and is frequently included in lists of the greatest albums of all time. Garfunkel’s angelic voice, paired with Paul Simon’s poetic lyrics, created some of the most enduring songs in popular music.
Cultural Impact and Influence on Music
Art Garfunkel’s voice remains one of the most recognizable and influential in music. His ability to evoke deep emotion through his singing, particularly with Simon & Garfunkel, has inspired countless musicians. His vocal style, often characterized by its pure, almost ethereal quality, has been a model for many aspiring singers in folk, pop, and rock genres.
In addition to his music, Garfunkel’s acting career and his legacy as a solo artist have further solidified his place in the entertainment world. His work in both music and film continues to be a source of inspiration for artists in multiple fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Art Garfunkel still alive?
Yes, Art Garfunkel is still alive as of 2025. Although he has faced health challenges in recent years, including vocal cord issues, he remains active in his personal life and occasionally performs.
2. What is Art Garfunkel best known for?
Art Garfunkel is best known for being one half of the legendary folk-rock duo Simon & Garfunkel, whose iconic songs like Bridge Over Troubled Water, The Sound of Silence, and Mrs. Robinson continue to resonate with fans worldwide.
3. What health issues has Art Garfunkel faced?
In 2010, Garfunkel suffered from vocal cord issues that required surgery, affecting his ability to sing and speak. Despite this, he has made a recovery and occasionally performs.
4. What is Art Garfunkel’s legacy?
Art Garfunkel’s legacy includes his contributions to Simon & Garfunkel, his successful solo career, and his profound influence on folk and rock music. His unique voice and poetic approach to music have made him an enduring figure in popular culture.
5. Has Art Garfunkel retired from music?
While Art Garfunkel is not as active in touring or performing as he once was, he has not officially retired from music. He occasionally performs and continues to be an influential figure in the music industry.
Conclusion
Art Garfunkel’s career has been defined by his role as one half of Simon & Garfunkel and by his incredible vocal talent, which has left a lasting impact on music and pop culture. As of 2025, Garfunkel is still alive, and while he has faced health challenges, his influence on music remains strong. His legacy as one of the most iconic and respected figures in folk and rock music will continue to endure, and his timeless voice will forever be remembered by fans around the world.