About the song
In the realm of folk rock, few duos have achieved the enduring popularity and critical acclaim of Simon & Garfunkel. Their music, a harmonious blend of Paul Simon’s songwriting and Art Garfunkel’s angelic vocals, has captivated audiences for decades, etching itself into the very fabric of American culture. Among their extensive discography, one song stands out as a poignant reflection of the pressures of fame and the relentless pursuit of success: “Keep the Customer Satisfied.”
Released in 1970 as the B-side to their chart-topping single “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Keep the Customer Satisfied” offers a glimpse into the disillusionment that can accompany life in the spotlight. The song’s lyrics, penned by Simon, paint a vivid picture of a weary traveler, constantly on the move, performing for indifferent crowds night after night. The relentless cycle of shows, the pressure to meet expectations, and the longing for connection take their toll on the singer, leaving him feeling emotionally drained and spiritually unfulfilled.
“Keep the Customer Satisfied” opens with a gentle acoustic guitar strumming, setting a melancholic tone that permeates the entire song. Simon’s voice, imbued with a world-weariness that belies his young age, weaves through the melody, each note carrying the weight of countless sleepless nights and empty hotel rooms. The lyrics, simple yet profound, capture the essence of the song’s message: the pursuit of external validation can leave one feeling empty and unfulfilled.
As the song progresses, the instrumentation swells, adding layers of brass and drums that underscore the singer’s growing sense of desperation. The lyrics become more urgent, reflecting his yearning for a life beyond the confines of the stage. He dreams of escaping the “neon maze” of the music industry and finding solace in the simplicity of nature, where he can “walk barefoot in the dew” and “feel the earth below his feet.”
“Keep the Customer Satisfied” culminates in a powerful bridge, where the singer’s voice soars above the swelling orchestration. He pleads for understanding, expressing his desire to break free from the expectations of others and simply be himself. The song fades out on a note of uncertainty, leaving the listener with a lingering sense of empathy for the singer’s plight.
“Keep the Customer Satisfied” is a poignant reminder of the human cost of fame and success. It is a song that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the pressure to conform, to sacrifice their personal identity for the sake of pleasing others. In a world that often glorifies achievement and external validation, “Keep the Customer Satisfied” offers a sobering counterpoint, reminding us that true fulfillment lies not in the applause of the crowd but in the authenticity of our own lives.