Carly Elisabeth Simon, born on June 25, 1943, in New York City, is an American singer-songwriter, musician, and author whose career has spanned over five decades. Known for her distinctive voice and deeply personal lyrics, Carly has become one of the most celebrated artists in the history of popular music.
Carly grew up in a creative household as the daughter of Richard L. Simon, co-founder of the publishing giant Simon & Schuster, and Andrea Heinemann Simon, a civil rights activist and singer. Alongside her sisters Joanna and Lucy, Carly was immersed in music and the arts from an early age. She began her musical journey as part of the folk duo The Simon Sisters with Lucy, releasing several albums in the 1960s.
Carly’s solo career took off in the early 1970s with her self-titled debut album, which featured the hit single “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be.” Her follow-up albums, including Anticipation (1971) and No Secrets (1972), solidified her status as a leading voice in the singer-songwriter movement. The latter album included the iconic track “You’re So Vain,” which became a cultural phenomenon and remains one of her most enduring hits.
Throughout her career, Carly has released a string of successful albums, including Hotcakes (1974), Boys in the Trees (1978), and Coming Around Again (1987). Her music has earned her numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and a Golden Globe for her song “Let the River Run,” featured in the film Working Girl (1988).
Carly’s collaborations with other artists have been a hallmark of her career. She contributed to Dave Stewart’s track “Oh No Not You Again” from his solo album Greetings From The Gutter (1994), where she added her voice to the “argument” segment of the song, showcasing her playful and versatile artistry. In turn, Dave Stewart played guitars on Carly’s track “Halfway Round the World” from her album Letters Never Sent (1994), highlighting their creative synergy.
In addition to her musical achievements, Carly is an accomplished author, having written two memoirs—Boys in the Trees (2015) and Touched by the Sun: My Friendship with Jackie (2019)—as well as several children’s books. Her writing offers an intimate glimpse into her life, relationships, and creative process.
Carly Simon’s influence extends beyond her music. Her candid exploration of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery has resonated with audiences for generations, making her a trailblazer in the world of confessional songwriting. Her collaborations with artists like Dave Stewart further underscore her ability to connect with musicians across genres and eras.
