profile-image

Paul Simon


"Paul Simon's Concert in the Park" is a live album and concert film recorded during his 1991–92 "Born at the Right Time" Tour. The concert took place in New York City's Central Park on August 15, 1991, featuring an extensive live backing band and a guest appearance by the Brazilian percussion group Olodum. The event was broadcast live on HBO and recorded for both audio and video release. The album captures a range of songs from Simon's two most recent albums, Graceland and Rhythm of the Saints, while also including several classics from his Simon and Garfunkel days. Initial estimates claimed attendance at the concert was 600,000, but later assessments suggested a maximum capacity of about 48,500 people. The concert was reminiscent of the reunion concert for Simon and Garfunkel held a decade earlier. It was recorded with a high level of technical detail, using 96 microphone channels and 20 discrete stage mixers. The audio was released as a double live album, double CD, and audiocassette, while the video was made available on VHS and Laserdisc. A DVD release eventually came in 2018 as a PBS exclusive. Upon release, the album's audio version peaked at a disappointing No. 60 on the charts, lasting only one week. However, it received positive critical reviews. Chris Charlesworth noted the album's quality, highlighting its detailed arrangements, particularly praising the version of "Sounds of Silence." On AllMusic, William Ruhlmann awarded the album four stars out of five, commending Simon for effectively blending diverse material and enhancing older songs with fresh arrangements. Overall, Concert in the Park is seen as an enjoyable and cohesive summary of Simon's career.