Editor’s Note: The Albumism staff has selected what we believe to be the 100 Greatest Soundtracks of All Time, representing a varied cross-section of films and musical genres. Click “Next Soundtrack” below to explore each soundtrack in the list or for easier navigation, view the full introduction & soundtrack index here.
The Graduate
Columbia (1968)
Selected by Justin Chadwick
Seldom has a soundtrack been so inextricably embedded within a film’s narrative and character development as The Graduate’s. Simon & Garfunkel’s compositions formed the perfect aural accompaniment to the portrait of the drifting, angst-ridden soul of Benjamin Braddock (played by Dustin Hoffman), as he attempts to reconcile his post-college disenchantment and restlessness with his yearning for a more adventurous and unconventional future.
The soundtrack also proved integral in the ascension of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel’s musical collaboration, galvanizing sales of their ensuing album Bookends (1968), widely regarded by fans and critics as the pair’s creative high-water mark.
On April 6, 1968, the soundtrack hit #1 on the US Albums Chart and remained there for seven consecutive weeks. The album that knocked it out of the top spot? Bookends, which enjoyed a three-week run at #1 before The Graduate reclaimed #1 for two more weeks. Bookends would then return to #1 for four additional weeks. In all, Simon & Garfunkel-blessed albums dominated the chart for sixteen weeks in a row, an impressive feat indeed.
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