SmartLess – “Paul Simon”

Intro

In this episode of the SmartLess podcast, the hosts sit down with American musical icon, Paul Simon. They discuss the challenges of touring, the power of music, and the connection between comedy and music. Paul shares insights into his career, his musical influences, and the importance of following your own interests in creating music.

Main Takeaways

The Challenges of Performing and Touring

• Performing can be both rewarding and bittersweet when it comes to an end.
• Creating a connection with the audience involves becoming someone else, which pulls the performer away from their true self.
• Backstage bits and goofing around with the crew can be just as enjoyable as the final product.

The Power of Music and Paul Simon’s Impact

• Paul Simon is an American musical icon who has sold over 100 million records as part of a band and a solo artist.
• His songs are part of people’s lives at different stages and across generations.
• Music has the power to penetrate a person’s soul and stay with them forever.

Paul Simon’s Approach to Music

• Paul Simon believes in exploring less well-known music genres, even if they may not be commercially successful.
• He doesn’t attribute his non-common taste in music to anyone, but rather follows his own interests.
• Paul Simon believes in the importance of heart in music and pursuing less conventional paths.

The Connection Between Comedy and Music

• There are many connections between comedy and music, such as timing, attention span, and pitch.
• Musicians can be very funny, and some of the funniest people are musicians.
• Deadpan humor is a close cousin to dramatic acting, as it requires being real and not winking to the audience.

Paul Simon’s Musical Journey and Collaborations

• Paul Simon’s musical journey has been marked by numerous hit songs and albums, both as a band and a solo artist.
• He has collaborated with other musicians whose music he respects, considering it a great privilege.
• Music is the universal language that blends differences and evaporates them for the moment.

Summary

Exploring the Challenges and Rewards of Performing

Paul Simon and the hosts delve into the challenges and rewards of performing. They discuss the bittersweet nature of the end of a tour and the importance of creating a genuine connection with the audience. Backstage moments and camaraderie with the crew are also highlighted as enjoyable aspects of performing.

The Impact of Paul Simon’s Music

Paul Simon’s music has had a profound impact on people’s lives at different stages and across generations. The power of music to penetrate the soul and leave a lasting impression is emphasized. The guest also shares his belief in exploring less well-known music genres and the importance of heart in creating music.

The Connection Between Comedy and Music

The hosts and Paul Simon explore the connections between comedy and music. They discuss the similarities in timing, attention span, and pitch between the two art forms. The guest shares his admiration for deadpan comedians and highlights the close relationship between deadpan humor and dramatic acting.

Paul Simon’s Musical Journey and Collaborations

Paul Simon’s musical journey is celebrated, with his numerous hit songs and albums as both a band and a solo artist. The guest emphasizes the privilege of collaborating with musicians whose work he respects. The universal language of music and its ability to bridge differences are also discussed.

Conclusion

Paul Simon’s appearance on the SmartLess podcast provides insights into the challenges and rewards of performing, the power of music, and the connection between comedy and music. His musical journey and collaborations highlight the impact of his work and the universal language of music. Listeners are left with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and passion behind Paul Simon’s iconic music.