Art Garfunkel – Biography, Net Worth, and 2026 Tour Update

Who Is Art Garfunkel? A Biography of the Legendary Singer

Arthur Ira Garfunkel was born on November 5, 1941, in Queens, New York. He rose to fame as one half of Simon & Garfunkel, the folk-rock duo whose harmonies defined a generation. With a tenor voice that Rolling Stone ranked the 86th greatest of all time in 2008, Garfunkel’s career spans singing, acting, and poetry.

Garfunkel began singing at age four after his father brought home a tape recorder. In high school he and Paul Simon performed as Tom & Jerry, releasing the 1957 single “Hey Schoolgirl” which reached No. 49 on the charts. Simon nicknamed Garfunkel “Tom Graph” because he created detailed charts for songs and musical elements. After a brief hiatus they reunited in 1963 as Simon and Garfunkel.

Their 1964 debut Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M. included an acoustic version of “The Sound of Silence” that was later electrified and became a No. 1 hit. Four more studio albums followed, including Bridge Over Troubled Water, before the duo split in late 1972. Garfunkel then embarked on a solo career and acted in films such as Catch-22.

Key Insights

• Garfunkel’s high tenor harmonised perfectly with Paul Simon’s folk-rock songwriting.
• Despite Simon & Garfunkel’s immense success, he pursued a solo career and also acted.
• His net worth of about $70 million comes from music royalties, touring, and acting.
• Garfunkel has two sons, including Art Garfunkel Jr., who is also a musician.
• The relationship with Paul Simon has experienced both highs and lows, including a reunion tour in 2003–2004.
• He is an author, having published a memoir in 2017 and a poetry collection in 1989.

Snapshot Facts

What Are Art Garfunkel’s Most Famous Songs and Albums?

Simon & Garfunkel Classics

As a duo, Garfunkel and Paul Simon created some of the most enduring songs of the 1960s and 1970s. “The Sound of Silence,” “Mrs. Robinson,” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water” became anthems. Their albums Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme, Bookends, and Bridge Over Troubled Water all achieved critical and commercial success. The song “My Little Town” (1975) is based on Garfunkel’s own childhood in Queens, not Paul Simon’s.

Solo Albums and Hits

After the duo split, Garfunkel released his debut solo album Angel Clare in 1973, which earned a gold record and included the hit “All I Know.” Breakaway (1975) featured “I Only Have Eyes for You” (his first UK No. 1) and the single “Second Avenue” (1974). His greatest-hits compilation Garfunkel came out in 1989. In November 2024 he collaborated with Paul Simon on the single “Father And Son.”

Solo hits like “Bright Eyes,” “All I Know,” and “I Only Have Eyes for You” showcase his unmistakable tenor voice. Other solo albums include Angel Clare, Breakaway, and collaborative work with Simon in 2024.

What Is the Relationship Between Art Garfunkel and Paul Simon?

Early Partnership

Garfunkel met Paul Simon in elementary school. They formed the duo Tom & Jerry in high school, releasing “Hey Schoolgirl” in 1957. Simon nicknamed Garfunkel “Tom Graph” because of his habit of charting songs. After a falling out caused by Simon making a solo recording, they reformed in 1963 as Simon & Garfunkel.

Breakup and Solo Paths

The duo released five studio albums between 1964 and 1970 before splitting in late 1972. Tensions had built over creative differences and Simon’s growing independence. Garfunkel did not record again until 1973. The split was not acrimonious enough to prevent occasional reunions, including a historic Central Park concert in 1981.

Reunions and Later Dynamics

Simon and Garfunkel reunited for a world tour in 2003–2004 called the “Old Friends” tour. They have performed together sporadically since, including the 2024 single “Father And Son.” Public statements from both indicate a complex relationship, with mutual respect for each other’s musical abilities despite personal tensions.

What Is Art Garfunkel’s Net Worth and Personal Life?

Net Worth

Art Garfunkel’s net worth is estimated at approximately $70 million. This wealth comes from decades of music royalties from Simon & Garfunkel and his solo work, as well as income from touring, acting, and book publishing. The exact figure varies by source; some estimate it as high as $90 million, but $70 million is a commonly cited figure.

Family and Children

Garfunkel was first married to Linda Grossman and later to actress Kim Cermack, whom he married on September 18, 1988. They have two sons, one of whom is Art Garfunkel Jr., who has pursued a music career. His relationship with actress Laurie Bird (1975–1979) ended tragically when she died by suicide in 1979.

Is Art Garfunkel Still Performing? 2026 Tour and Recent Activity

Yes, Art Garfunkel remains active. In 2026 he announced the “What a Wonderful World” World Tour, starting in San Antonio. While some sources listed a Royal Albert Hall show in London, the primary 2026 tour announcement highlights the San Antonio launch and global dates. Garfunkel previously performed at the London Palladium in 2017, where he gave a standing-ovation performance of “For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her.” Additional tour dates are expected to be announced.

How Did Art Garfunkel’s Life and Career Progress Through the Decades?

1. 1941 – Born in Queens, New York.
2. 1956 – Meets Paul Simon in elementary school; forms duo Tom & Jerry.
3. 1964 – Signs with Columbia Records as Simon & Garfunkel; releases Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.
4. 1965 – “The Sound of Silence” becomes a No. 1 hit.
5. 1970 – Bridge Over Troubled Water released; the duo splits in 1972.
6. 1973 – Solo debut album Angel Clare released.
7. 1981 – Reunion concert in Central Park draws record attendance.
8. 1990 – Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of Simon & Garfunkel.
9. 2003–2004 – “Old Friends” reunion tour.
10. 2024 – Collaborative single “Father And Son” with Paul Simon; 2026 tour announced.

What Information About Art Garfunkel Is Confirmed vs. Speculated?

What Is Art Garfunkel’s Lasting Impact on Music?

Garfunkel’s high tenor and pure tone provided the perfect counterpoint to Paul Simon’s folk-rock songwriting. The duo’s music captured the spirit of the 1960s and continues to resonate. After the split, Garfunkel successfully pivoted to a solo career and acting, appearing in films such as Catch-22 and Bad Timing. The 1981 Central Park concert epitomised the nostalgia and cultural significance of their work. Despite periodic tensions, both artists acknowledge the unique magic of their collaboration. For readers interested in other musicians with remarkable careers, see the Pete Townshend – Biography, Net Worth, and Key Facts.

What Are the Most Reliable Sources for Information About Art Garfunkel?

The following sources provide authoritative, verified information:

• Wikipedia entry for Art Garfunkel
• Britannica biography
• Official Art Garfunkel website
• All American Speakers biography
• IMDb profile
• Grammy.com artist page
• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – Simon & Garfunkel
• Royal Albert Hall event page (2026)
• Official Simon & Garfunkel site

“Art’s voice is one of the most beautiful I’ve ever heard.”

— Paul Simon, interview with Rolling Stone

“I sing because the song is there.”

— Art Garfunkel, from his memoir

What Are the Key Takeaways About Art Garfunkel?

Art Garfunkel is a legendary singer whose voice helped define the folk-rock sound of the 1960s and 1970s. His partnership with Paul Simon produced timeless hits, and his solo career, acting, and literary work have kept him in the public eye. At 84, he continues to perform, with a world tour scheduled for 2026. For another musician with an enduring legacy, read about Chris Rea – Alive, Well, and Still Making Music in 2025.

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