Paul Simon Discography 19652023 Flac 88
Paul Simon 's solo discography from 1965 to 2023 spans 15 studio albums, beginning with The Paul Simon Songbook and concluding with his most recent work, Seven Psalms. High-resolution digital versions of these albums, including lossless FLAC formats, are available through specialized retailers such as Qobuz. While many titles are offered at 24-bit/96kHz, specific audiophile-grade masters sometimes target different sample rates like 88.2kHz depending on the source material's mastering history. Paul Simon Studio Discography (1965–2023)
The following list comprises the primary studio albums released during this period: Paul Simon - Facebook
The Ultimate Sonic Journey: Paul Simon’s Discography (1965–2023) in High-Fidelity
Whether you are a lifelong "Rhymin' Simon" fan or a newcomer to his poetic landscapes, the release of his most recent works alongside high-resolution remasters provides a perfect opportunity to revisit his monumental career. Spanning nearly six decades—from the 1965 debut The Paul Simon Songbook to the 2023 meditative suite Seven Psalms
—this collection represents one of the most diverse and influential discographies in American music. Key Eras of the Collection The Early Folk Roots (1965–1970): The journey begins with The Paul Simon Songbook
(1965), recorded in London. It contains raw, solo acoustic versions of classics like "The Sound of Silence" and "I Am a Rock," offering a rare glimpse into Simon’s songwriting before the Simon & Garfunkel studio polish. Solo Stardom and Experimentation (1972–1983):
After the duo's split, Simon explored reggae on "Mother and Child Reunion" from his self-titled 1972 album and gospel-inflected pop on There Goes Rhymin' Simon (1973). This era peaked with the Grammy-winning Still Crazy After All These Years Global Fusion (1986–1990): The discography is anchored by
(1986), a cultural phenomenon that blended South African mbaqanga with Simon's literate pop, followed by the Brazilian-influenced The Rhythm of the Saints The Meditative Late Career (2000–2023): paul simon discography 19652023 flac 88
Simon’s later work shifted toward intricate rhythms and spiritual inquiry, seen in his Brian Eno-produced (2006) and his 2023 masterpiece, Seven Psalms Experience the Best Sound: FLAC & Hi-Res
For audiophiles, these albums are available in high-resolution formats that bring out the intricate layering of Simon's production.
The following article provides an overview of Paul Simon ’s solo career and major releases spanning from 1965 to his latest work in 2023. This timeline highlights his evolution from a folk-rock pioneer to a world music innovator, often available in high-fidelity formats like FLAC 88.2kHz/24-bit for audiophiles seeking studio-quality sound. The Early Years and Solo Debut (1965–1972)
While famously part of Simon & Garfunkel, Simon released his first solo effort, The Paul Simon Songbook, in 1965. Following the duo's split, he launched a definitive solo career with his self-titled 1972 album. This era introduced hits like "Mother and Child Reunion," showcasing his early interest in reggae and non-traditional American pop sounds. Sophistication and Critical Peak (1973–1980)
Simon’s 1970s output was defined by jazz-inflected arrangements and introspective lyrics.
There Goes Rhymin' Simon (1973): Known for "Kodachrome" and gospel influences. Still Crazy After All These Years
(1975): A Grammy-winning masterpiece featuring the iconic "50 Ways to Leave Your Lover." One-Trick Pony Paul Simon 's solo discography from 1965 to
(1980): Accompanied a film of the same name, exploring more complex, adult-oriented themes. The World Music Revolution (1986–1990)
After a brief commercial lull, Simon experienced a massive resurgence by blending Western pop with global rhythms.
Graceland (1986): His most successful album, Graceland sold over 16 million copies and famously featured South African mbaqanga music.
The Rhythm of the Saints (1990): Followed a similar path, this time focusing on Brazilian percussion and West African guitar styles. Late Career and Spiritual Reflections (2000–2023)
In his later years, Simon's work became more experimental and philosophical.
Stranger to Stranger (2016): A rhythmic experiment that reached #1 on the UK and US charts.
Seven Psalms (2023): His most recent studio work is a 33-minute continuous suite. According to reviewers at Havurah, the album is an overtly spiritual and acoustic reflection on mortality. The Audiophile Experience: FLAC 88.2kHz Part II: The Early Solo Years (1972–1980) —
For collectors, "FLAC 88" refers to high-resolution audio files sampled at 88.2kHz. This format is popular among fans who want to hear the intricate details of Simon's legendary production—such as the vibrant bass lines on Graceland or the delicate acoustic guitar work he is often praised for by guitar enthusiasts on platforms like Facebook. The Wonder of Paul Simon's “Seven Psalms” - Havurah
Part II: The Early Solo Years (1972–1980) — Artistic Liberation
Simon’s first true solo album, Paul Simon (1972), featured the reggae-inflected “Mother and Child Reunion” – a track that, in 88.2 kHz FLAC, finally lets the Jamaican rhythm section breathe without the congestion of MP3 compression.
- There Goes Rhymin’ Simon (1973) – “Kodachrome” and “Loves Me Like a Rock.” The gospel choir’s transients are a delight in high-res.
- Still Crazy After All These Years (1975) – A masterclass in intimate studio production. The 50th-anniversary 88.2 kHz transfer brings out the felt-on-string bass and Michael Brecker’s tenor sax with stunning realism.
- One-Trick Pony (1980) – Recorded live in the studio with his band. The FLAC version preserves the live bleed between drum mics – something lost in standard 16-bit.
Solo Career Highlights
- There Goes Rhymin' Simon (1972): Features the hit single "Mother and Child Reunion."
- Paul Simon (1972) (sometimes referred to as the "self-titled" to distinguish from his 1970 solo work): Released in the UK as Paul Simon (1972).
- Graceland (1986): A critically acclaimed album that incorporated African rhythms and won three Grammy Awards.
- The Rhythm of the Saints (1990): Explores Brazilian music influences.
- You're the One (1998): Features a more rock-oriented sound.
- Surprise (2006): His first album in seven years, featuring a wide range of musical styles.
Phase I: The Simon & Garfunkel Era (1965–1970)
Key Releases: Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M., Sounds of Silence, Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme, Bookends, Bridge Over Troubled Water.
The early catalog presents a unique challenge for the "88" collector. These albums were recorded on analog tape. While modern remasters can sound excellent, the recording limitations of the 1960s are inherent to the source.
- The Audiophile Experience: In FLAC 88, the remasters of Bridge Over Troubled Water reveal the brilliance of the production. The title track, often cited as one of the best-engineered songs of all time, benefits significantly from high-resolution treatment. The separation between the vocals and the orchestral swell becomes palpable.
- Stereo vs. Mono: Collectors often debate early Simon. The wide stereo separation of the 60s (hard-panned drums left, vocals right) can be jarring in modern hi-fi setups, but lossless files preserve the original mix integrity.
The Experimental & Late Period (1997–2023)
- 1997 – Songs from The Capeman (The Broadway cast recording – often overlooked, contains some of his densest orchestration)
- 2000 – You’re the One
- 2006 – Surprise (Produced with Brian Eno; digital glitches and electronics benefit from hi-res)
- 2011 – So Beautiful or So What (His finest 21st-century work)
- 2016 – Stranger to Stranger (Uses custom microtonal instruments; 88.2 captures the detuned harmonics)
- 2018 – In the Blue Light (Re-recorded arrangements of deep cuts)
- 2023 – Seven Psalms (A continuous 33-min composition. Released at 88.2kHz natively on Qobuz and HDtracks)
Phase III: The World Music Revolution (1986–1997)
Key Releases: Graceland, The Rhythm of the Saints.
This era is the "stress test" for any audio system. Graceland (1986) and The Rhythm of the Saints (1990) introduced dense layers of African and Brazilian rhythms, respectively.
- Dynamic Range: These albums are incredibly busy. In low-quality formats, the percussion can sound like a wall of noise. In high-resolution FLAC, the individual percussion instruments—congas, bass drums, shakers—are distinct and spaced out.
- The 88 Advantage: The 88.2 kHz sample rate is particularly kind to the high-frequency transients of cymbals and acoustic guitars found on Graceland, preventing the harshness that can sometimes plague digital recordings from the late 80s.
Live Albums and Compilations
- Live Rhymin' (1984): Captures his live performances with musical guests.
- The Best of Paul Simon (1998): A compilation of his most popular songs.
Part 2: The Complete Discography (1965–2023)
A genuine "1965-2023" collection encompasses not just solo albums, but the Simon & Garfunkel years, soundtracks, and late-career experiments.
Collaborations and Later Work
- The Paul Simon Album (1981): A transitional work that blends rock with reggae and new wave influences.
- In the Name of Love (2015): A collaborative album with Ladysmith Black Mambazo.