Paul Simon Makes Surprise Appearance At Benefit Concert In Montauk

Famed singer-songwriter Paul Simon made a surprise appearance on Saturday as part of the Montauk Music Festival Rocks The Lighthouse fundraiser at the Montauk Point Lighthouse in Montauk, New York. Simon performed four of his songs backed by local band The Montauk Project and other musicians as per Newsday.

Paul’s short set came after performances from Jessica Lynn, Tuatha Dea and Kate Usher & The Sturdy Souls. At least 3,000 people were admitted to the show after word spread about Simon’s unannounced appearance. “He drew all of that in a day,” lighthouse keeper and Montauk Historical Society board member Joe Gaviola told Newsday. “Paul wanted this to be a low-key event and to keep it local.” Proceeds went towards the upkeep of the lighthouse.

Simon & Co. opened with “Late In The Evening.” Paul went on to lead the group through “50 Ways To Leave Your Lover,” “Me & Julio Down By The Schoolyard” and “You Can Call Me Al.” The impromptu performance came as Paul Simon is in between legs of his Homeward Bound – The Farewell Tour.

Watch footage of “You Can Call Me Al” captured by Aerial Pros: