Paul Simon guested on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert to perform “Slip Slidin’ Away” for Colbert’s 60th birthday.
Taking place at a mostly-silent Ed Sullivan Theater, Simon, 82, performed a faithful, intimate rendition of “Slip Slidin’ Away” with just an acoustic guitar and a microphone. The song, which originally appeared on Simon’s 1977 compilation album Greatest Hits, Etc., has become a fan-favorite since its release. Watch Simon’s stirring performance of the track below.
Colbert opened the show by announcing his 60th birthday, joking, “I am now the same age as Ian McKellen when he was cast as Gandalf.” Before Simon’s closing performance, the show’s guest was longtime Colbert collaborator Steve Carrell. The two discuss their early days performing in Chicago, Carrell’s recent run in Uncle Vanya on Broadway, and more. Scroll down to the bottom to watch a clip of Carrell’s appearance.
Paul Simon is no stranger to The Late Show, appearing as a guest back in March for an extensive interview with Colbert and a performance of “Your Forgiveness.” Though he’s taken a break from touring, Paul Simon released his most recent album Seven Psalms in May 2023. The album consisted of one 33-minute track with multiple suites, entirely acoustic, and featuring a meditative hue.