Celebrating her 82nd birthday today, Carly Simon remains one of the most iconic and fearless singer-songwriters of her generation. In the 1970s, while pop music leaned toward either spectacle or soul, Carly carved a unique lane with raw, confessional lyrics and an unmistakable voice that made listeners feel like they were eavesdropping on her life. Born into Manhattan literary royalty, Simon rose to fame not through privilege, but through vulnerability and truth-telling.
Her 1972 hit “You’re So Vain” became a cultural sensation, famous for its mystery and biting lyrics — and for never fully revealing its target. Simon’s career extended far beyond that hit.