In the wake of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, many people turned to songs of strength and unity as a source of inspiration for coping in a changed world.

Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel's Bridge Over Troubled Water was the number one song of the 1970-1979 rock era and held the number one slot for six weeks in 1970.

Simon performed the song at the telethon tribute to the victims of the World Trade Center.

The song was written in the same Hollywood Hills house which inspired George Harrison to write the Beatles' song, Blue Jay Way.

Written by Simon, Garfunkel originally didn't want to sing the song. Simon insisted, but later regretted giving the song up. In concert, Garfunkel sang the song solo with Simon on guitar. Ironically, the resentment that Bridge Over Troubled Water created between the duo eventually led to their break-up.