Arthur Ira Garfunkel, born on November 5, 1941, is an American singer, actor, and poet celebrated for his partnership with Paul Simon in the iconic folk-rock duo Simon & Garfunkel. His journey into the world of music began in Forest Hills, Queens, New York, where he developed a lifelong friendship and musical bond with Paul Simon in elementary school.

Garfunkel and Simon's musical collaboration blossomed in the 1950s, leading to chart-topping success throughout the 1960s. Together, they crafted numerous iconic hits, including "The Sound of Silence," "Mrs. Robinson," "Scarborough Fair," "The Boxer," and "Bridge over Troubled Water." Their final album, Bridge over Troubled Water (1970), perfectly captured their legacy. Personal differences led to the duo's separation, but occasional reunions over the years have delighted fans.

Following the breakup of Simon & Garfunkel, both artists achieved successful solo careers. Garfunkel's solo career produced one top 10 hit, three top 20 hits, six top 40 hits, 14 Adult Contemporary top 30 singles, five Adult Contemporary number ones, and two UK number ones, in addition to a People's Choice Award. He has earned eight Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award, reflecting his significant contributions to music.

Garfunkel's early life in Queens, New York, was shaped by a loving family and a burgeoning passion for music. A childhood experience, singing "Unchained Melody" at the age of five, sparked his love for music. He attended Forest Hills High School, alongside Simon, where they performed together as Tom & Jerry, releasing the single "Hey, Schoolgirl" in 1957, gaining modest chart success.

Beyond music, Garfunkel pursued higher education, earning a BA in art history in 1965 and an MA in mathematics education in 1967 from Columbia University. During this time, he was active in campus life, forging many friendships. He even used his education to help a blind roommate.

Garfunkel has also made significant contributions in the realm of acting, starring in two Mike Nichols films, Catch-22 (1970) and Carnal Knowledge (1971). He has continued to express himself through various creative avenues, including appearances in a 2009 episode of HBO's Flight of the Conchords and a 2017 memoir titled What Is It All but Luminous: Notes from an Underground Man. Despite facing vocal challenges and making the decision to not tour, Garfunkel's impact on music, acting, and literature remains significant.