Full Breakdown
Carly Simon’s “Comes in Waves” Revisits a Decades-Old Marriage Amid Health Battles
8/15/2026, 9:49:04 PM
Core Event – New Album and Controversial Track
Carly Simon, 83, released the 12-track album Comes in Waves in August 2026, her first collection of original songs in 18 years. The song also mentions their shared children, confirming the personal focus.
Background & Context – Relationship History
Simon and Taylor first met on April 6 1971 backstage at The Troubadour in Los Angeles. They began dating later that year, moved in together, and married on November 3 1972 in Simon’s New York City apartment. The marriage produced two children—Sally Taylor (born 1974, age 52) and Ben Taylor (born 1977, age 49)—and ended in divorce in 1983 after a period marked by mutual infidelity and Taylor’s drug addiction.
Health Challenges Shaping the Record
Simon disclosed a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and recent surgery for basal cell carcinoma while completing the album.
Data & Statistics – Album Details and Timeline
- Comes in Waves: 12 tracks, recorded primarily at Simon’s Martha’s Vineyard studio.
- First album of original material in 18 years; previous original release was in 2008.
- Children referenced in lyrics: Sally and Ben.
- Health disclosures: Parkinson’s disease; basal cell carcinoma surgery.
Official Statements & Responses
- Carly Simon (July 27 statement): Described the personal impact of her Parkinson’s diagnosis and the decision to speak publicly about it.
- Carly Simon (2015 interview with People): Expressed lingering affection for Taylor, saying, “And I love him so much.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “And I love him so much.” — Carly Simon
- “Our love became bipolar, switching from love to hate, lust to loathing, and back again, sometimes within a day,” — Carly Simon
Why It Matters – Artistic Reflection and Public Interest
The album intertwines Simon’s health struggles with a lyrical re-examination of a high-profile 1970s marriage. Fans and media have highlighted the song’s ambiguous stance—questioning whether love ever existed or persists—while the broader narrative underscores how personal adversity can fuel creative output. Simon’s willingness to discuss her diagnoses publicly also adds a layer of advocacy for artists confronting chronic illness.
