“Bridge over Troubled Water” is a song by the American music duo Simon & Garfunkel, released in January 1970. It is a ballad with lyrics that speak to themes of hope, comfort, and support during times of trouble. Since its release, many artists have covered the song, with some versions becoming popular in their own right. Determining which version is the “best” is subjective and depends on personal preferences, however, some versions have received critical acclaim and widespread recognition.
One of the most notable covers of “Bridge over Troubled Water” is Aretha Franklin’s version, released in 1971. Franklin’s soulful rendition of the song earned her two Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year. Another well-regarded version is Elvis Presley’s 1970 cover, which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Other notable covers include those by Willie Nelson, James Taylor, and Johnny Cash.
