Historian to illustrate legacy of musician Paul Simon

Have you ever wondered about the real story behind the infamous split between Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, or how the folk musician rose to stardom? A local historian promises to dive into those stories and much more with an upcoming music night.

The dynamic team of historian Susan Benjamin, cantor Jay O'Brien and conductor Robert Hanson is slated to delve into the life and times of one of the world's more interesting musicians this weekend.

Benjamin is a musical biographer who has profiled notable figures including Frank Sinatra, Barbara Streisand, Rodgers and Hammerstein, and many more. But listeners are in for a special treat with her lecture on Feb. 16, when she will be joined by O'Brien and Hanson for an educational evening brought to life with live music. 

O'Brien is a cantor who performs with the Congregation Makom Solel Lakeside in Chicago, skilled in picking up the sounds of many a musician. 

He and Benjamin have become lifelong friends, and he will be flying in from Chicago to give voice to Simon's music.

Simon is the recipient of 16 Grammy awards, perhaps best known for his works with musical partner Garfunkel, including "The Sound of Silence" and "Bridge over Troubled Water."

Last year, Benjamin lectured on Neil Diamond's career, and now she has turned her attention to this uniquely folksy American singer/songwriter.

She claims Simon is one of history's musical geniuses, deserving of acclaim for his innovative writing.

"His lyrics are so different and meaningful," she said. "He is, of course, a lyricist and songwriter and composer. But he's also a poet."

The living legend still writes and performs solos, though he has lost his hearing and ability to play with others.

"He really is remarkable," she added.

The lecture series started as an opportunity to help bring people together over a shared appreciation of good music and the people who create it. Benjamin said she is thrilled at how the program has continued to evolve and grow, encompassing a variety of genres.

O'Brien said he was inspired to pick Simon this year based on Simon's standout musical identity.

To prepare for each of her lectures, Benjamin does a deep dive on the artist, hoping to relay the important strokes of their career, but also to uncover tidbits for even well-versed audience members.

"I really think these people have a story to tell, as well as great music," she said. "He does the music, I do the copious research and find the stories, and then we blend them together."

The lecture begins at 3 p.m. Feb. 16 at The Education Center. Register online at TBIEducationCenter.org.