Singer George Nooks delivers a heartfelt rendition of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” as a tribute to his mother during the holiday season.
Nooks’ version of the timeless classic is featured on his Don’t Give Up album, released under Jetstar, and has become a staple in his live performances worldwide. Speaking to World Music Views, Nooks revealed that the track holds a special place in his heart, ranking among his top five favorites. Other cherished songs in his repertoire include God Is Standing By, Ride Out Your Storm, So Much Love, and How Great Thou Art.
“Bridge over Troubled Water” is a landmark song by Simon & Garfunkel, released in January 1970 as the second single from their fifth studio album. Written by Paul Simon and produced by the duo alongside Roy Halee, the track features Art Garfunkel’s lead vocals and a gospel-influenced piano arrangement performed by Larry Knechtel. Recorded in both California and New York, it showcases a “Wall of Sound”-style production.
The song achieved immense success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks and becoming the No. 1 song of 1970 in the U.S. It also reached No. 1 in the UK, Canada, France, and New Zealand, selling over six million copies globally. It won five Grammy Awards in 1971, including Record and Song of the Year, and remains Simon & Garfunkel’s most iconic work. Frequently ranked among the greatest songs ever, it is listed at No. 66 on Rolling Stone‘s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”
Creation and Inspiration
Composed quickly in early 1969, Simon drew inspiration from gospel music, including Claude Jeter’s line, “I’ll be your bridge over deep water,” and Johann Sebastian Bach’s melodies. Despite initial hesitation, Garfunkel performed the song solo, with Simon adding harmonies in the final verse. The evocative lyrics include the famous “Sail on, silvergirl” line, referencing Simon’s then-wife noticing her first gray hairs.
Cultural Impact and Covers
The song is one of the most performed of the 20th century, covered by over 50 artists, including Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash. Critical reception has consistently praised its emotional depth and timeless quality, cementing its status as a transcendent classic in music history.
