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Paul Simon Opens Up About Hearing Loss and His Ability to Continue Performing
Renowned singer-songwriter Paul Simon recently discussed his hearing loss and how it has affected his musical career. During a post-screening Q&A for the documentary “In Restless Dreams: The Music of Paul Simon,” Simon revealed that he is still coming to terms with his hearing loss in his left ear, but is starting to accept it.
In a panel discussion with the documentary’s director Alex Gibney, Simon spoke candidly about his condition. He expressed that playing the guitar is crucial to him, as it allows him to express himself creatively and find solace. Simon also mentioned that having a disability changes one’s awareness and interactions with life.
Simon admitted that his hearing loss has made returning to performing a challenge. Despite no improvement in his left ear, he plans to work with two guitarists who will play the parts he played on his record and see if he can still sing the piece. Integrating his voice with the guitars will be a test for him.
However, Simon’s hearing loss has not stopped him from composing new music. He mentioned that he recently wrote a song titled “When I Learned to Play Guitar” but is unsure if he will ever release it.
Earlier this year, Simon opened up about his hearing loss during an interview with the Times. He revealed that it occurred while he was working on his new album, Seven Psalms. Suddenly losing most of the hearing in his left ear made everything more difficult for him.
The documentary “In Restless Dreams: The Music of Paul Simon” covers Simon’s successful six-decade career. It includes his time as part of the folk duo Simon & Garfunkel, the recording of his hit solo album “Graceland,” and his later years spent recording in his home studio in Texas. The release date for the documentary has not been announced yet.
Key Takeaways
- Paul Simon is still coming to terms with his hearing loss but is starting to accept it.
- Playing the guitar is crucial to him, both creatively and for solace.
- His hearing loss has made returning to performing a challenge.
- Simon plans to work with two guitarists to see if he can still sing his music.
- His hearing loss has not stopped him from composing new music, despite the difficulties.
- The documentary “In Restless Dreams: The Music of Paul Simon” covers his successful career.