About the song
Simon & Garfunkel’s “America,” performed live during their renowned *Concert in Central Park* in 1981, is a remarkable example of the duo’s ability to capture the essence of American life through their music. This song, originally released on their 1968 album *Bookends*, holds a special place in the hearts of many listeners due to its evocative storytelling and poignant reflections on the American experience.
“America” was written by Paul Simon and is one of the standout tracks from *Bookends*, an album that is often hailed for its introspective and socially conscious themes. The song itself tells the story of a young couple traveling across the United States, exploring the idea of searching for meaning and identity in a rapidly changing world. The lyrics, rich with imagery and emotion, reflect Simon’s keen observations on the American landscape and the pursuit of the American Dream.
The *Concert in Central Park*, held on September 19, 1981, was a historic event, attracting over 500,000 people to Central Park in New York City. This performance was notable not only for its size but also for the way it showcased Simon & Garfunkel’s enduring appeal and their ability to connect with audiences across generations. The live rendition of “America” at this concert was particularly memorable, with the duo’s harmonies and acoustic arrangements resonating deeply with the crowd.
The album *Bookends* on which “America” was originally featured, was a commercial success, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard 200 chart. The song itself did not chart as a single, but it has since gained significant acclaim and remains one of Simon & Garfunkel’s most beloved tracks. Its inclusion in their live performances, especially during such a landmark concert, underscores its importance in their musical legacy.
The *Concert in Central Park* was not only a celebration of Simon & Garfunkel’s past work but also a testament to their impact on American music and culture. The live performance of “America” from this event is a powerful reminder of the duo’s ability to blend lyrical depth with melodic sophistication. As audiences continue to be moved by this performance, it stands as a poignant piece of musical history that captures the spirit of an era and the timeless nature of Simon & Garfunkel’s artistry.
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Lyrics
“Let us be lovers, we’ll marry our fortunes together
I’ve got some real estate here in my bag”
So we bought a pack of cigarettes and Mrs. Wagner pies
And walked off to look for America
“Kathy”, I said as we boarded a Greyhound in Pittsburgh
“Michigan seems like a dream to me now”
It took me four days to hitchhike from Saginaw
I’ve gone to look for America
Laughing on the bus
Playing games with the faces
She said the man in the gabardine suit was a spy
I said “Be careful, his bowtie is really a camera”
“Toss me a cigarette, I think there’s one in my raincoat”
“We smoked the last one an hour ago”
So I looked at the scenery, she read her magazine
And the moon rose over an open field
“Kathy, I’m lost”, I said, though I knew she was sleeping
I’m empty and aching and I don’t know why
Counting the cars on the New Jersey Turnpike
They’ve all come to look for America
All come to look for America
All come to look for America