1980 single by Paul Simon
Professional ratings| Review scores |
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| Source | Rating |
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| Billboard | (favourable)[1] |
"Late in the Evening" is a song by American singer-songwriter Paul Simon. It was the lead single from his fifth studio album, One-Trick Pony (1980), released on Warner Bros. Records.
His first single release for Warner, "Late in the Evening" was released in July 1980 and became a hit on several charts worldwide. In the U.S., the song hit number six on the Billboard Hot 100. Internationally, the song was a top 20 hit in the Netherlands, Belgium, and New Zealand. The song has received praise for Simon's lyrics, the horn interlude, and the famous drum beat, referred to as a 'groove' by drummer Steve Gadd. Gadd devised the distinctive drum part by using two pairs of drumsticks – one in each hand – in order to give the impression of two drummers playing together, as he has demonstrated in drum clinics.[2] Gadd plays a New York City–style Cuban Mozambique drum groove.[3] Billboard described the hook consisting of a "percussive and bass duet" as being "irresistible."[4] Record World said that it's highlighted by "spirited brass, percussion & guitars."[5] Simon performed the song with Art Garfunkel during their 1981 reunion concert in Central Park in New York City.
