Kodachrome

Zoo Freaks, get ready for some vibrant vibes as The Zoo Crew spins Kodachrome by Paul Simon from the classic album There Goes Rhymin' Simon. This 1973 hit, which peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, was originally titled "Going Home" before Simon switched it to "Kodachrome" for its catchier, more innovative edge. In a 2008 interview, Simon shared that the song’s opening line, "When I think back on all the crap I learned in high school," was the most intriguing part for him, reflecting on how education didn’t hinder his ability to see the world clearly. The song’s title, inspired by Kodak’s iconic 35mm film, led to some corporate friction—Kodak required a trademark notice on the album, which reportedly annoyed Simon so much that he occasionally tweaked the lyrics in live performances, singing "everything looks better in black and white" instead of "worse" as a subtle jab.

Another juicy tidbit comes from the recording process at Muscle Shoals Sound Studios in Alabama. Simon, expecting Jamaican musicians after hearing their work on The Staple Singers’ "I’ll Take You There," was surprised to find the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section—four white Southern guys. Bassist David Hood recalled Simon’s shock at the studio’s funky setup, but the band’s efficiency blew him away. They nailed Kodachrome and two other tracks in record time, with Hood noting they taped sanitary napkins to the ceiling to stop a leak, adding to the session’s quirky charm. The song’s upbeat vibe, with its nostalgic nod to summer greens and bright colors, also sparked fan theories—some even speculated "Kodachrome" was a metaphor for cannabis, though Simon never confirmed this. A 2021 X post from Simon’s official account shared a clip of a 2012 Hyde Park performance, reminding fans of the song’s enduring live energy.

Paul Simon’s journey to becoming a music legend began in Queens, New York, where he was born on October 13, 1941. His musical roots took hold early, influenced by his father, a musician, and his mother, a teacher. At 11, Simon met Art Garfunkel at school, and the two began performing as Tom & Jerry, landing a minor hit with "Hey Schoolgirl" in 1957. After high school, Simon balanced college and music, releasing solo work under pseudonyms like Jerry Landis while studying at Queens College. The duo reunited as Simon & Garfunkel, hitting it big in the 1960s with folk-rock classics like "The Sound of Silence" and "Mrs. Robinson." After their 1970 split, Simon launched his solo career with the 1972 album Paul Simon, exploring reggae and world music influences. His third solo album, There Goes Rhymin' Simon, cemented his versatility, blending gospel, R&B, and pop, with Kodachrome as its standout track.

Simon’s accolades speak to his enduring impact: 12 Grammy Awards, including three Album of the Year wins, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award with Simon & Garfunkel, and inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as both a duo and solo artist. His official website, paulsimon.com, keeps fans updated on his latest projects, like his 2023 album Seven Psalms and 2025 tour plans. You can follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and X for news and throwback posts. Fans also gather at sites like simonandgarfunkel.com, which covers his duo work, and on Facebook groups like the Paul Simon Fan Club, where Zoo Freaks can connect over his timeless tunes. So, crank up Kodachrome, and let those bright colors wash over you!