About the song
## El Condor Pasa: A Timeless Melody
**El Condor Pasa** is a Peruvian folk song that has captivated audiences worldwide, thanks in large part to its iconic rendition by the legendary duo, Paul Simon & Garfunkel. Released in 1970 on their album “Bridge Over Troubled Waters,” this song has become a timeless classic, transcending language and cultural barriers.
Originally composed by the Peruvian songwriter Lorenzo Fernandez, “El Condor Pasa” translates to “The Condor Passes.” The song is a poignant expression of longing and nostalgia, evoking imagery of the Andean mountains and the majestic condor soaring high above. Fernandez’s composition is characterized by its haunting melody and intricate harmonies, which perfectly capture the melancholy and yearning of the lyrics.
Paul Simon & Garfunkel’s interpretation of “El Condor Pasa” is a masterful blend of folk and classical elements. The duo’s harmonies are as exquisite as ever, with Simon and Garfunkel’s voices blending seamlessly to create a truly ethereal sound. The arrangement features a rich tapestry of instruments, including acoustic guitars, flutes, and percussion, which add depth and texture to the song.
One of the most striking aspects of Simon & Garfunkel’s version of “El Condor Pasa” is the use of the charango, a small, ten-stringed Andean lute. This instrument lends a distinctive South American flavor to the song, helping to transport listeners to the remote mountain regions of Peru. The charango’s warm, resonant tone complements the duo’s vocals and the other instruments in the arrangement.
The lyrics of “El Condor Pasa” are both evocative and enigmatic. While the English translation by Simon and Garfunkel may not capture the full nuances of the original Spanish lyrics, it still conveys a powerful sense of longing and loss. The song’s refrain, “I remember the mountains, the air, the sky,” is particularly haunting, evoking images of a simpler time and place.
“El Condor Pasa” is a testament to the enduring power of music. It is a song that has touched the hearts of millions of people around the world, regardless of their cultural background or musical tastes. Whether you are a fan of folk music, classical music, or simply appreciate a beautiful melody, this timeless classic is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Video
Lyrics
I’d rather be a sparrow than a snail
Yes, I would
If I could
I surely would
I’d rather be a hammer than a nail
Yes, I would
If I only could
I surely would
Away, I’d rather sail away
Like a swan that’s here and gone
A man gets tied up to the ground
He gives the world its saddest sound
Its saddest sound
I’d rather be a forest than a street
Yes, I would
If I could
I surely would
I’d rather feel the earth beneath my feet
Yes, I would
If I only could
I surely would