Harper Simon

Harper Simon

Harper Simon is an American singer, songwriter, musician and actor from New York, United States. He is the son of Paul Simon and Paul Simon’s first wife, Peggy Harper. He is also known as Harper James Simon.

Early life and work in music

Simon begins performing at a young age. In 1981 he appears in his father’s film One Trick Pony, playing a young Jonah Levin during the opening song “Late in the Evening”. In 1983, he appears on Sesame Street with his father, and the two sing “Ricardo The Cowboy” and “Bingo”. By the age of 12, he is part of the Graceland tour as the guitarist accompanying his father. Paul Simon later references him in songs including “St Judy’s Comet” and “Graceland”.

Education and collaborations

He attends Berklee College of Music in Boston before moving to London for several years, where he plays with the band Menlo Park. In New York City he often plays music with childhood friend Sean Lennon. Simon plays guitar on Lennon’s second album, Friendly Fire, and also appears in the film of the same name. His other collaborators include Suphala, with whom he performs in Afghanistan in 2005, as well as Edie Brickell, Bijou Phillips, Carl Perkins and Jena Malone. With Malone he co-writes “Tested Dry”, on which he also plays guitar and drums.

Solo recordings and production

Simon’s first solo project is recorded in Nashville and co-produced with Bob Johnston. The recording features Hargus “Pig” Robbins and Charlie McCoy, along with musicians Mike Leach and Gene Christman. Simon also contributes music to the Abel Ferrara films New Rose Hotel and The Blackout.

Groups and releases

In February 2008, Simon and Edie Brickell form the Heavy Circles, which release an album co-produced by Simon and Bryce Goggin. He also releases material on his own Tulsi Records. Harper Simon is associated with the Heavy Circles and Menlo Park.