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Paul Simon Doesn't Like 'Coming Second' to Bob Dylan

Torsten Blackwood, AFP/Getty Images / Kevin Kane, WireImage

For most, being compared to Bob Dylan would be something of a compliment. But for Paul Simon it's a different story -- the 69-year old has revealed he finds the comparison frustrating.

Speaking to Rolling Stone, Simon explained what he saw was the main difference between the two singer-songwriters. "One of my deficiencies is my voice sounds sincere," he said. "I've tried to sound ironic. I don't. I can't. Dylan, everything he sings has two meanings. He's telling you the truth and making fun of you at the same time. I sound sincere every time. Rock 'n' 9roll has a lot to do with image. If that's not your strength, people find fault with the work."

According to Simon, what he dislikes most about the comparisons is being ranked behind Dylan. He said, "I usually come in second. I don't like coming in second."

"In the very, very beginning, when we were first signed to Columbia, I really admired Dylan's work," he continued." 'The Sound of Silence' wouldn't have been written if it weren't for Dylan. But I left that feeling around 'The Graduate' and 'Mrs. Robinson.' They weren't folky anymore."

Watch Paul Simon Perform 'Still Crazy After All These Years'

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lhrmd2

I agree with comments involving "apples and oranges"...all a matter of taste. Personally I prefer Simon, but that's just me. As for resenting "coming in second", maybe Paul should consider how Art Garfunkel must have felt.

May 16 2011 at 10:54 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
jackcammarata

HOW OLD IS HE HERE. NOW THATS CRAZY!!

May 16 2011 at 10:54 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
.chiero

The question should be framed: which of these two is third behind Elvis Costello and Bruce Springsteen.

May 16 2011 at 10:31 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
~BeCkY~

who cares if he is second? at least he was rated... as top ten on the list... that should have made him feel somewhat.. notable..... regardless they are both favorites of mine....

May 16 2011 at 10:02 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
richatra7

yb 19 had it right. 2 different artists both fantastic no1 no 2 just opinions and you know what they say about opinions

May 16 2011 at 8:40 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
frebro1

Paul is a pop star one of the best , Bob did so much in the sixties that cannot be compared to anyone. He is the inspiration for so many artists. His voice left years ago and if you don't get his songwriting he can be out there, but he takes your mind to deep places that make you think and feel good.

May 16 2011 at 8:29 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
mjm6

Paul will always be number one with me.

May 16 2011 at 8:23 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Jim

Simon can't hold Dylan's microphone!!

May 16 2011 at 6:33 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
wiseman103199

I like Paul better.

May 16 2011 at 5:35 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Jewels H

I would take Paul Simon over Bob Dylan any day of the week and twice on Sundays.

May 16 2011 at 1:44 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply