About the song
“El Condor Pasa” by Paul Simon & Garfunkel is a timeless classic that resonates with the soulful melodies and rich harmonies of its folk-rock genre. Released in 1970 as part of the album “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” this song is an adaptation of a traditional Peruvian folk tune, which Paul Simon discovered during his travels in South America. The original song, titled “El Cóndor Pasa,” was composed by Peruvian musician Daniel Alomía Robles in 1913 and later popularized by the folk group Los Incas.
Paul Simon’s rendition of “El Condor Pasa” captivates listeners with its haunting flute motif, evoking images of the majestic Andes mountains and the graceful flight of the condor. The song’s poignant lyrics, penned by Simon himself, explore themes of longing, freedom, and the human spirit’s quest for transcendence.
Upon its release, “El Condor Pasa” soared to the top of the charts, reaching number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and garnering widespread acclaim worldwide. Its enduring popularity has led to numerous cover versions and adaptations by artists across different genres, cementing its status as a beloved musical masterpiece.
For fans of Simon & Garfunkel, “El Condor Pasa” remains a standout track in their discography, showcasing the duo’s unparalleled vocal harmonies and Simon’s prowess as a songwriter. Its inclusion in the iconic “Bridge Over Troubled Water” album further solidifies its significance in the annals of music history.
With its timeless melodies and profound lyrics, “El Condor Pasa” continues to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of listeners, reaffirming its status as a classic masterpiece in the folk-rock genre.
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Lyrics
I’d rather be a sparrow than a snail
Yes, I would
If I could
I surely would
I’d rather be a hammer than a nail
Yes, I would
If I only could
I surely would
Away, I’d rather sail away
Like a swan that’s here and gone
A man gets tied up to the ground
He gives the world its saddest sound
Its saddest sound
I’d rather be a forest than a street
Yes, I would
If I could
I surely would
I’d rather feel the earth beneath my feet
Yes, I would
If I only could
I surely would