Essential Listening #73: Mrs. Robinson

My Comments

Simon and Garfunkle had a string of hits in the 60s and 70s. I could have easily put six or seven of their songs on this list.

Details

“Mrs. Robinson” is a famous song by the American music duo Simon & Garfunkel. It became one of their most popular songs and has an interesting history and cultural significance. Here’s a comprehensive look at “Mrs. Robinson”:

Background and Inspiration

• Artists: The song was written and performed by Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, the iconic folk-rock duo known for their harmonious vocals and poetic lyrics.
• Origin: “Mrs. Robinson” was initially conceived as part of the soundtrack for the 1967 film The Graduate, directed by Mike Nichols. The film starred Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft, and Katharine Ross. Nichols originally wanted Simon & Garfunkel to contribute new music, but Simon presented some existing pieces, including an unfinished version of “Mrs. Robinson.”
• Title Character: The character Mrs. Robinson, played by Anne Bancroft in the film, is an older woman who has an affair with the young protagonist, Benjamin Braddock, portrayed by Dustin Hoffman. The song’s lyrics do not directly reference the film’s plot but capture the essence of the character and themes.

Musical Composition

• Style: “Mrs. Robinson” is a folk-rock song with a catchy melody and memorable chorus. It features acoustic guitars, electric bass, and a distinctive percussive beat.
• Structure: The song has a straightforward verse-chorus structure. The verses offer a series of vignettes and reflections, while the chorus is repetitive and engaging.
• Instrumentation: The song uses a mix of acoustic and electric instruments, including a prominent guitar riff. The production blends folk and rock elements, showcasing Simon & Garfunkel’s signature sound.

Lyrics and Themes

• Themes: The lyrics of “Mrs. Robinson” touch on themes of disillusionment, nostalgia, and the search for meaning in modern life. The song’s chorus is famously enigmatic, with the lines “Here’s to you, Mrs. Robinson / Jesus loves you more than you will know.”
• Cultural References: The song includes references to American cultural figures and events, such as Joe DiMaggio, the famous baseball player. Simon later explained that he saw DiMaggio as a symbol of a simpler, more innocent time in American culture.
• Symbolism: The lyrics also suggest a critique of contemporary society and its values, with the character of Mrs. Robinson representing a kind of lost innocence and moral ambiguity.

Commercial Success

• Release: “Mrs. Robinson” was released as a single in April 1968 and was also included on the Simon & Garfunkel album Bookends, which came out the same year.
• Chart Performance: The song became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It was the first rock song to win the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1969.
• Album Success: The success of the song contributed to the commercial and critical success of the Bookends album, which is regarded as one of Simon & Garfunkel’s best works.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

• Film Connection: The association with The Graduate significantly boosted the song’s popularity. The film itself became a cultural phenomenon, and “Mrs. Robinson” helped underscore its themes and characters.
• Iconic Status: “Mrs. Robinson” is often regarded as one of Simon & Garfunkel’s signature songs and remains a staple of classic rock and oldies radio stations.
• Covers and Tributes: The song has been covered by numerous artists, reflecting its enduring appeal. The Lemonheads released a well-known cover version in 1992, which became a hit in its own right.
• Cultural References: Over the years, “Mrs. Robinson” has been referenced and parodied in various media, from television shows to literature, underscoring its place in popular culture.

Personal and Social Resonance

• Social Commentary: The song is often interpreted as a commentary on the social and political climate of the 1960s, reflecting the anxieties and changes of the era.
• Emotional Impact: The blend of wistful nostalgia and subtle critique in the lyrics resonates with listeners who appreciate its depth and ambiguity.
• Legacy of Simon & Garfunkel: “Mrs. Robinson” is a testament to the songwriting talent of Paul Simon and the harmonious blend of his voice with Art Garfunkel’s, contributing to their status as one of the greatest music duos of all time.

In summary, “Mrs. Robinson” is a classic song that captures the spirit of its time while offering timeless reflections on society and human experience. Its association with The Graduate, memorable melody, and thought-provoking lyrics ensure its lasting impact in music history.