Paul Simon credits the Rolling Stones

Paul Simon, who's released his new album Surprises, said that he's not overly impressed by some of his '60s contemporaries' current work. He told The New York Times that he's not that excited about Neil Young's new material, but added that he respects the Rolling Stones for keeping it together for five decades, explaining that, "I don't think Mick Jagger and Keith Richards ever liked each other any better than Artie (Garfunkel) and I did, but they show other bands that it can be done, that it's possible. That's more interesting than watching Paul McCartney go out and play Beatles songs (in concert)."

Simon, who debuted songs from his new album yesterday at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, added that there's always a risk when presenting a new project to a loyal and longtime audience: "I understand that what I'm doing might not be interesting to a lot of people. I think the key is that you don't give up -- you just keep going."

Surprises, Simon's first new collection since 2000's You're The One, is co-produced by Brian Eno, best known for his work with U2, David Bowie, Talking Heads, and Roxy Music.

On Saturday (May 13th), he will appear as the musical guest on Saturday Night Live.