British guitarist analyses Neil Diamond live in 1971 (and his career!)
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- Опубликовано: 17 сен 2019
- Tonight I'm taking a look at Neil Diamond performing back in 1971, and covering some history too!
Original video - • Video
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Ok, I'm gonna get personal. 1975, I'm a student nurse on duty, and my boyfriend comes walking down the hall playing his guitar and singing Sweet Caroline. That tall drink of water is now sleeping in his recliner. Yep, I married him that year, it's 44 years today. What a coincidence this video would pop up today. Thanks Neil Diamond for all the love. Thank you Fil. ♡Nurse Caroline
Picket Fence Love that story!
InstaBlaster.
Nice piece of nostalgia.
That story gave me goosebumps
What a great story congrats to you both !
One of the greatest singers/song writers/performers of all time.
I'm trying to cover 'Cracklin' Rosie'. and thats how I got here. Love ND, but I really want to know what has the passion for WoP. Please, tell us your passion. :You explain great artists, but I don't think Frank Sinatra and Queen are your thing.
Agree.
I don't see anybody that even compares to him today!
Neil Diamond stood alone. Nobody could compare to the amazing melodies, lyrics, and delivery of his songs. And we had him performing for over 50 years. Sorry that he's ill now and hope only the best for him and his loved ones.
Always liked Neil but I'm older an it's more like an appreciation for his fantastic music. An amazing song list and talent off the charts. Nobody like him.
What an image (Thanks for it): The young Neil Diamond literally visiting record label offices, peddling his own songs, living on $3 a day. What a lifetime body of work!
Smooth, understated, but still emotionally compelling. A mesmerizing performer.
Neil has such a unique voice. There's no mistaking who it is. I've always loved his music and great story telling ability as well. Thanks for your thoughtful analysis.
I cannot believe you did Neil Diamond! Fantastic! :) He was such a great song writer.
Neil Diamond is an Icon
No one can outdo him, performance-wise...
His songs made me alive....happy and at peace....Luv ya, ND..
Thank you for giving Neil the respect he deserves!! This is my favorite Neil song
❤️
Sarah Lyn I always gave him respect his songwriting and singing deserve(d.)
I think his not having 'hot' electric lead guitars on his songs led to some of that. Stay cool. Love 68-72,73,74, records.
Mine too
One of the greatest singers/songwriters/and composers of all time. Thank you for giving a great breakdown of his awesome and unique voice. He is amazing, there’s no one like him.
You have the prettiest smile, Fil.
Neil was chronically shy, he wrote music for many others but could not perform. He had counseling to address his shyness and the psychiatrist advised him that the best way to overcome this fear of exposure was to actually face it and get on stage. Which he did and the rest is history. Ended up doing hot august nights, go figure. The guy is a marvel.
How far we have fallen..... This was real music, real talent, no auto-tune or repetitive lyrics and actually had a MELODY
Love the original studio recording of this. Great analysis of one of America's greatest talents. Not only does he write great songs but his voice is one of a kind
Agree
Good choice Fil. This is one of my favorite songs. You have a great ear.
I agree. Fil picked a great song.
The likes of these legends will not be seen the next 1000 years! I have watched a few of Fil's videos and will watch many more. He (more than anyone) on the Internet understands the rudiments, techniques and mechanics of musical composition and has a way of expressing it to the present generation that does real justice. Plus he is a excellent vocalist and musician himself!
Oh man that syrupy baritone voice gives me chills. I love me some Diamond!! The world of rock doesn't know what debt it owes to Neil for his impressive songwriting and stellar performance chops. He's one of the best performers of the past 50 years. Just a terrible shame about the Parkinson's as the world deserves Neil till the die that he can't sing no more. Thanks for doing this one Fil! I'm sure you will educate the masses about how important ND's contributions were to the world of rock and music. Horns up! \m/
In 2018 Neil Diamond said that he regrets not capturing his 1972 (Hot August Night) performance on video at the Greek Theater... He said that it was a big turning point in his career. Indeed it was, I was at one of the ten shows he did that year and it still remains my all time favorite concert...
I,ll go as far as to say that Neil Diamond is ,in my opinion the greatest singef/ song writer ever.
I still think that concert is one of the best live concerts ever. Such a pity it is not recorded on video.
In 1966 Neil Diamond’s was the very first album I ever owned. I had just bought a second-hand portable stereo with a fold down turntable and two detachable speakers. I had saved up cash from selling newspapers on street corners and collecting pop and beer bottles for the deposits. Have been a hardcore ND fan ever since. Bought my first guitar that year from the same cash drawer.
It is my all time favorite concert too. I wish there was video! As the years have gone by and attending 9 of his concerts over the years, I try to imagine in my mind what he would look like and do. Listening to the album is just magical!
I didn’t know that video of that concert did not exist. As a seafarer, I try to find in all record stores in all cities/countries that I’ve been. Information/internet was not as easy as it is today then
Excellent presentation. Neil Diamond is a national treasure and a true one of a kind. His music is a gift.
What a powerful song, delivery and that voice, and the arrangement with the horns. This guy pushes all the buttons. It’s impossible to not be moved, stops you dead in your tracks.
Saw an interview with him recently, in his 80s, unfortunately the body is what it is. RESPECT.
Everyone always focuses on his early career but albums such as 12 Songs are just as fantastic. One of the greats.
You don’ t hear many storytellers anymore. Such a deep mesmerizing voice. Thanks for another journey of memories of groups and artists of the 70’s.
Neil Diamond was a poet, a philosopher. Johnatan Livingston Seagull, a Masterpiece!
He’s amazing, I think more talented than people realize. He adds the perfect amount of emotion to convey the songs perfectly.
Agree
Your critique is flattering, which he deserves. Critics disliked his work back then - they were wrong. Which you seem to appreciate. 🙂
True it was. Don't know why. I guess Neil Diamond wasn't cool. I liked him plenty. Singer-songwriters always
His career has lasted decades. Remember any of those critics?
I'm glad you said that. Ironically, I learned to 'hate' him, yet I love this song !
@@papagarth I guess it was the "power of suggestion" in that day.... to the max! If anyone could believe that!!!
Actually ( as an afterthought ) the men were very jealous of womens' positive reaction to him!
Yes, Neil Diamond has a poetic sensibility, lots of imagery, story telling, he is almost corny in an appealing way, melodramatic a true 'Troubadour', and the ladies love him.
Play Me is a perfect example !
My family grew up on ND. My Mom was a HUGE fan. Between ND, ABBA, Fats Domino, Simon and Garfunkel, and Elvis my path was set with memories of her ❤. My Father set me on a different path musically, more blues❤. But ND will always take me to a special place. What a songwriter and singer!
.... Seeing him in concert in the olden days, he is incredible performer, and that voice is out of this wolrd Sings with so much emotion "I am I said".... So many great songs Fil its wonderful you review so many of these fabulous musicians as I said before...so many younger people may never heard of these truly gifted musicisns.... Neil Diamond appeals to all ages and styles of music lovers... another wonderful review,,,, a truly beloved Super Star
so agree, I have stressed to my son to be sure to expose his daughters, 12 and 15 now to all the really good music, the littlest one loves Freddie m and david bowie lol and the older one loves heart and Sinatra... needless to say, it's great that Fil posts these videos or many of the younger people may never had even heard of them
@@tjvanpopta Yeah, and that era of music had no auto tune, the music of today is too manufactured.., not for 'Easy Listening', for sure!
I am I said . To no one else . Not even the chair ???? The chair didn't hear him . ☎️ hello ...the chair calling . ♡♡♡♡♡♡♡☆. Sorry. I love his comforting sound .
@@tjvanpopta AMEN!
jojo z A song of his that just feels like it's talking about me and my childhood is Brooklyn Roads as well as Shilo.
Fil get an act together and come to USA. You have a super voice. We will come.
Indeed we will. I will bring my staff
Need a big venue. Awhile back I suggested the Rose Bowl (capacity 90,888) but with 89,900 subs we're reaching capacity. 🤟😁
One day! 🤘
@@wingsofpegasus really Fantastic Fil that would be great
@@wingsofpegasus HOPE SO, HOPEFULLY, I WILL STILL BE WALKING UP RIGHT WITHOUT CANES OR WALKERS, LOL! No dig to you Filip, you know how old i'am, lol!
He was so handsome- and what a prolific songwriter! Oh and great voice! As always, your analyses are interesting and trenchant.
He was gorgeous and still is !
@@ritamcdonald4227 yeah he sure was hot!!
My uncle knew Neil Diamond back when they were both on the New York University fencing team. Neil went to NYU on a fencing scholarship. My uncle even showed me photos of the team and there was Neil. He was a pre-med student but dropped out to pursue his music career.
You are so gifted in giving your analysis of the artists, the selections, and arrangements. You somehow capture the spirit or nature of the era during the time the song was originally released. Totally amazing and enjoyable to watch. Great job!!! Btw, Neil is a national treasure and I am a life long fan!
I agree! Fil has a new fan in me🥰
Neil is another one of my favorites ❤
Your knowledge of artists and music is encyclopedic!!! Great job, sir!
I think one of Neil's greatest (of many) talents is that while he's undoubtedly a performer to thousands in an audience, and to billions over the decades, his voice is also so intimate - as I listen he's clearly singing just to ME ...!
My mother loved him - his voice, his looks, his lyrics, everything. It always reminds me of her when I hear his music. Holly Holy is my favorite of his.
Loved Holly Holy as well.
Thanks for covering Neil Diamond! I have loved him from the beginning! A one of a kind songwriter and singer, with such a magnificent voice!
Phenomenal performer and writer! That vocal control and range omg! From gravely growels to soft sweet vibrato 🥰
Niel is one of the greatest songwriters of all time. Considering lyrics, melody, composition, and vocals, I put him in the top echelon with Cohen, Springsteen, Tracy Chapman.
Your smile, is amazing :) You make me smile..
My twin boys are 17 and one of their favorite songs is “Sweet Caroline”. I love hearing them in their rooms singing it with their friends online, of all places. Just goes to show that great songs from great musicians transcend the ages.
This concert was the best live vocal performance I’ve ever heard by Neil. His voice was sooooo effortlessly powerful. I wonder if he would have kept it longer if he hadn’t been a smoker.
Agree
Have you heard his live album, Hot August Night?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐👍
@@smg85051 I have a mint copy of the original vinyl as well as the special edition cd (and everything else I’ve been able to collect by him, studio or live). He is amazing!
@@smg85051 Did you know he was really sick for those original HAN shows with a fever? You can hear his voice strain a little here and there in the recording.
Hard to believe, but Neil actually made 3 versions of this album, so you can track his voice through the years; The last version was from 2012@@smg85051
Love Neil Diamond..Forever in Blue Jeans...thanks Fil
This channel is becoming my daily routine...... ☕ As always, great video, and today I discovered Neil ain't that bad🤙 cheers from Australia 🇦🇺🍻🌏
Alana Di Stefano men at work
oh, Neil was a GREAT songwriter, singer, performer !!
Yes I'm from the land Down Under 🇦🇺😂
@@christophersmith2544 same with myself and my 8 year old who is learning guitar🎸 fils one of our favourites🎶🎵🎤
@@christophersmith2544 well I'm sure she must of been relaxing, just watching Fil's dead or alive cover! You should buy her a W. O. P. Shirt🎸👍
One of my favorite performers. So glad you did this one Fil. 👍
Neil Diamond is part of the playlist of my life. Listening to him on the radio when I was pre-teenage. Twirling as the marching band played Sweet Caroline in high school. Dancing to one of his songs at my wedding. Many memories. I'm 60 now, and still listening to him.
I have been lucky enough to see him in Concert 3 times and let me tell you, he holds the audience in the palm of his hand. The audience is so engaged in the music they let Nayeli just carry them away into euphoria. Such great evenings!
Neil is a musical genius. Creative guy. We had so many talented singer songwriters at that time it is staggering.
Damn. NOBODY can pick a song apart like you can.
Great performance of this song. Never heard him sing it this way, but I like! Thanks, Fil, for another fabulous analysis❣️
When interviewed some time back, Neil mentioned his relative success with songwriting but lamented the fact many of his songs weren't taken up and recorded by the artists of the time. That's when he decided 'why not do them myself.' And the rest as they say - is history.
Named my youngest daughter Caroline and we used to sing that song to her all the time, which she hated, of course. But now her oldest child has just entered high school, in the band. And the first song they learned to play? Yep, "Sweet Caroline". She sent me a video - told her she should be proud to be a classic. Thank you Fil, for helping us remember the reasons why the singer-songwriters were so amazing.
My whole 8th grade year (81-82) chorus all we sang was Neil Diamond songs.
My name is Caroline and my parents named me after that song. It came out the same year I was born. I also hated the song when I was a kid but eventually, as I got older, I learned to appreciate the song for what it is, a very good song in and of itself and a real crowd pleaser.
G'day Fil from the land down under, thank you for your analysis of these songs. Have you considered the Dire Straights classic Sultans of swing. Mark Knopfler is in my opinion one of the greatest guitarist's whoever lived and watching the final Australia/NZ 1986 tour was what inspired me to learn the guitar.
One of the first singles I bought as a teenager back in the 60"s.... I think Cherry Cherry was the A side and Solitary Man was the B side.... I loved both songs!
I miss the days when each side of a single was a hit in its own right.
Me too. I saw him in concert in 1969 in San Antonio. He was wonderful.
I didn't remember that Solitary Man was with Cherry Cherry ) Solitary Man is my favorite " Cherry Cherry is great too.
@@rickcrawford4981 Googled it. Solitary Man/The Time is Now '66
Another superb performer. Saw him live--he never stops. Did 4 encores!
I love nearly everything Neil wrote, but this has always been my favorite. Sincere, passionate, gets to me every time.
Neil did a concert in Memphis, TN back in the mid 1980s. He did a special thing near the beginning of the concert. He addressed the crowd concerning flash cameras. He explained the the flash would have no effect when trying to take pictures from dozen or hundreds of feet away. He announced that he would do a number in which all who wanted pictures could make their way down close to they stage and take as many picture as they wanted. After that, return to your seats and NO flash pictures attempted. The audience complied and the concert was great. The concert also featured Mr. Mister which was excellent. "Broken Wings" "Kyrie".
He is my all-time favorite. I saw him in concert three times, and wish it could have been more. Thank you Fil!
Another spectacular analysis; love the history you cover and context you provide. My mom was a HUGE Neil fan. I was 12 the first time I saw him in concert. In 2008, I took my mom to see him in what would turn out to be her last concert before succumbing to ovarian cancer in 2010. I grew up on Monkee reruns and also saw them in concert when I was in high school (my parents were there, too!). Neil is an amazing song writer and has brought joy to so many. Fil - I really love the diversity of your analyses. Thank you for taking such great care with each of them. You’re amazing.
That background brass is almost haunting when he sings the chorus. It is certainly emotive and evocative. I can't quite put my finger on it, but It sounds quite a bit like other brass work from the late 1960's and very early 1970's and it reaches deeply into the soul somehow with an almost melancholic hint. Sadly, after that time frame this certain sound seemed to be rarely used. I am obviously not saying that brass wasn't used any more, just that haunting 60s/70s sound.
Fil to-do you ever sleep? I am a pilot and therefore up at odd hours, but you seem to be an absolute night owl machine! Rock on but be careful of your health.
Sorta like The Letter... or Herb Alpert?
@@RCAnderson42 Yes! That's the type of sound I was trying to put my finger on. You hear it a bit in Gerry and the Pacemakers' Ferry Across the Mersey although there it is created with strings and woodwinds and not brass (as far as I can tell). I will try to remember some others but it is distinctive is it not?
@@Neal_Schier I agree with you there-- I mean it's distinct enough to actually call other songs to mind! Juxtaposed to the sincerity in Neil's voice it's particularly 'haunting,' and it's always been my favorite thing in this song-- second only to when his voice cracks a little in the album version-- my heart! I'll check out the Pacemakers' song, I'm sure I've heard it.
@@Neal_Schier Oh! What about Can't Take My Eyes Off You? Also I think Roy Orbison did a bit with that sound as well.
@@RCAnderson42 I will have to listen to that cut again as well as something from Orbison. I would bet you are right though, as it must have been a sound that the writers and composers of that era were aware of and liked to employ.
Now I will be rattling my brain for the next few days thinking of where I have heard it before. I might even have to listen to the slow sections of a few Herb Alpert recordings as you mentioned.
He’s the composer of movie Livingstone Seagull soundtrack which inspired me much in my teenage. Various melodies have been humming for decades! Love his voice that’s so deep with rich emotions. Thank you Neil 👍🏻😊
My all time favorite artist..own most all of his albums and saw him in concert in the 80's at Pine Knob...lots of great songs..and a great entertainer❤thanks..
Neil ♦️ Diamond ♦️ .... the consummate entertainer. I saw him live and was shocked at how good he was live ....... 💎
Neil Diamond was born for the stage, a highly skilled songwriter and musician. Thanks for sharing Fil. An awesome analysis on Neil.
This song embidies and evokes memories of youth, languid summers and first crushes. I'll be what I am, a solitary man. So powerful, I can still smell the sweet honeysuckle of warm Carolina summers. This song was when I first noticed and fell in love with Neil Diamond. Then came song after brilliant song. Thank you, Neil, for crafting so many songs that I put in the "song book of my life."❤❤❤❤
One of the greatest performers and song writers of the era. Ignored by the Hall of Shame for far too long. Jim Morrisons brother without the drugs
As another poster mentioned.. David Gates & Bread.. Another hit machine early 70s
Bread and Lobo both had a nice smooth sound !
David Gates - another artist that who provided material for The Monkees.
Yes they're awesome 😍 great Harmony and lyrics n rhythm 👍
RoryVanucchi love them
There's another secret element that Fil might have missed: Neil Diamond was so good designing lyrics that he would make room for audience participation within his songs. In this case, he deliberately created a rhythmic "hole" after the phrase, "a girl who stays --" inducing a strong urge to fill in the word, "true." Swear to god, he did that on purpose. That's how good he is. Same with Sweet Caroline, where Diamond left gaps for the audience to sing "so, good, so good" etc.
I’m a Red Sox fan 8th inning always played sweet Caroline everyone singing such fun. When they had the marathon bombing he was there singing the song in person.
He so nice. Thank you Fil as slways😊
Love Sweet Caroline and Cracking Rosie
Neil is one of the greatest. As I understand it, both Streisand and he recorded the song 'You Don't Bring Me Flowers' separately and a dj combined their vocal tracks to make a duet. They became aware of it and decided to make it a reality.
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for doing Neil Diamond. My all time favorite male singer. I've seen him perform 3 times. Twice at the Greek Theater in LA. and at the MGM in Las Vegas. Solitary Man is my all time favorite Neil Diamond song. Next to Holly Holy. His on stage presence is something else. He grab you and he makes you listen to the song. He really want to entertain the audience. And, His voice, Its deep and rich. Thank you again for your video. He is the best.
Fil,
Thanks for highlighting Neil’s career, but there are so many incredible songs you didn’t mention. I would love to see you analyze “I Am, I Said” or “Girl, You’ll Be A Woman Soon” or “Cracklin’ Rosie”. These songs, along with “Sweet Caroline” have an almost magical catchiness that you should examine. These tunes are musically infectious for some reason that you might explore. Thanks!
The Jazz Singer album is especially nostalgic to me.
My all-time favorite musical artist. I have seen him in concert around 25 times, but am sorry to have missed out on his 1970s shows.
My all time favorite was "Holly Holy" must react to that one soon. As always good take on these singers and music players.
If this is from his Hot August Night performance..one of the best live albums ever! Cmon.the man is an icon and legendary songwriter and also a kind human
Love from 🇨🇦
I’m figuring you are speaking of the 1972 Hot August Night (the first one) as it is truly one of the best live albums of all time. The second and third were good, but no where near the 1st one in 1972. I saw an interview with Neil who said he wished the 1972 HAN album was filmed, instead of just audio recorded. As he agrees it’s one of the best he ever did.
I still remember the cover of what I think was that double album hot August night. Absolutely loved it. He had that tight denim outfit on!
I was one of the Tree People that night. :}
@@xScooterAZx lucky you Sandra!! I play that album and dance around my home like I was there..I think about those back up singers on Cherry cherry ..what a great gig..
Would've love to be a back up singer for Neil.
Never considered him a "singer"...more of a "talking singer". But, his ability to so many things has been astounding at times. He's quite gifted at orchestral arranging as well. "Hot August Night" is one of the finest live albums of the 70's...the sound engineering alone is a remarkable feat. You really feel like you are there. " Taproot Manuscript" is my all time favorite of his. Great job, Fil.
An all time favorite of mine way back when! Your comments are spot on!
Love Neil Diamond grew up in my community parents shopped at his family's store. Wrote, sang, played, countless great songs. Saw him many times in concert, fabulous! So, much fun singing his array of hits. Nothing like "Coming To America," hangs a massive USA flag behind him so prideful. He's very, very, special his music has brought great joy to many lives. Legendary artist tunes will live forever.
Patty Robin always thought that his dad was a cantor.
My mom used to listen to the radio a lot, along with her best friend Pina at her house. It was always Top Forty music, but I didn't mind too much. There was an occasional gem or two that would pop out. However, for me, Neil Diamond wasn't one of those song purveyors. His music was just plain corny!
I clearly remember the day that I first heard The Carpenters' "You've Only Just Begun" float out of the radio. I was IN LOVE with both the song, and with whatever angel was singing it. That was a turning point for me and Top Forty music. I began to enjoy it more, along with my own much more eclectic tastes, and listened for songs that moved me for whatever reason.
After all, I had music in my soul from birth. My dad had purchased two Sony reel-to-reel tape players in Okinawa--along with an extensive and varied collection of tapes that were studio releases--before I was born, so I grew from birth listening to Nat King Cole, Mario Lanza, The Serendipity Singers, Mitch Miller, Patsy Cline, The Sons of The Pioneers, Frank Sinatra, etc., etc., etc.
I had music in my soul and my blood, and went straight into the music business. I made some incredible connections and would probably have made it big. My first big break at age TWENTY(!) was getting to advise Buddy Rich on band selections in Lake Tahoe's Harvey's Casino, where he was just chosen as the musical director. I went up from there to be a band manager, a record producer, concert promoter, and just about anything else that I could find to do to make more contacts.
I would have made the music business my life's work if not for mental stress, alcohol, and later, drugs. I know what you're thinking, but due to an undiagnosed congenital condition, it was the stress, anxiety, and depression that took me out first. The alcohol and drugs were my attempts to self-medicate what no one knew I had but me
Anyhow, one day I heard something new floating out of the radio. It was clearly Neil Diamond, but I had never heard such emotion before in a song. The song was "Play Me", and I'll never understand why, but it brought tears to my eyes. The same was true for "I Am, I Said" when first I heard that song. After that day, I started to listen for his songs, and even ended up absolutely loving many of them. I don't understand how Neil's songs seemed to know RIGHT WHERE TO HIT ME for the most emotional impact!
Of course, I would always listen to these songs in my house, because I would have been absolutely mortified if any of my friends found me crying to a Neil Diamond or Carpenters song! But what fond memories I have of a lonely childhood filled with music. I STILL have music in my soul.
Fil, Neil has had incredible success in the music world 🌎 for over 45 years. His songs are iconic. Thanks so much Fil. Cheers 🍻Your Videos are brilliant .
He is a great song writer and singer. Touches the heart and heals it.
Wow, Great research. Great analysis. awesome job, Fil. Thank you!
I saw him live in 1972 and it's still one of the best concerts I've ever seen. He really put his heart into every song. I played his album Tap Root Manuscript constantly for months after it came out.
Another great honored ...... thank you .
Neil's "Solitary Man" inspired me to write my first song. I had his early albums and played them incessantly. My musical tastes diverged and I didn't follow his later music as much, but he is a great song writer and performer. I am so glad he perservered to get the recognition he deserved. Thanks for making this video!
I loved Neil's performance with the Band. Helpless!
I know Neil Young did that.
Before I was a rock and roller I was a big Neil Diamond fan, as well as Burt Bacharach and Hal David compositions. It's where my love for harmonies originated. Thanks Fil for a trip to childhood! Peace! ✌
Wow I am swooning here!! Thank you for this gem!!
Thank you. I needed that. 👍👍👍
Saw him in concert in Las Vegas in 1976. Great show. I still have the ticket stub!
Neil had several song out that I like, "Song Sung Blue", "Shiloh", "Cracklin' Rose", "Sweet Caroline", among others. 👍👍
Man he was and still is amazing, what a career he has had 😊
So many things to say! 1st, my God he was gorgeous. Another one of my “retro crushes”
2nd, one of my top 10 favorite performers of all time. I love all of his songs, Holly Holy being my personal favorite.
3rd, the era of the singer-songwriters produced the best music EVER across all genres.
Last but not least, Fil, I just found you a couple of weeks ago and I am hooked! I genuinely enjoy your analysis and it’s a joy for me to watch your joy. The smile on your face is priceless. 😊❤
So love Neil Diamond..you express things well about his style and essence, Fil.
I was 15 1970 listening to lots of his songs on the transistor radio. "Play Me" one of my favorites.
Thanks for the analysis Fil and as ever spot on with your knowledge and insights. For an Aussie kid who was a teen in the early 70's Neil Diamond would not have been something to gravitate to if not for one album, Hot August Night. It sold that well it was analysed that at the time, at least 1 in every 3 houses in the country had a copy of the album. Not a BBQ or Party was complete without that album being on the stereo. Listening to the album now, I am taken back to that time and place instantly. It is truly a part of the fabric of my life. In terms of sales it was one of few albums in the Aussie charts that could rival DSOTM for length of time in the charts and recharted every few years for a while. When he toured Aus.won in the mid 70's, the adulation was so great (not teen mania but real adult adulation) it put him off touring here for almost 20 years, he did apologise for doing that when he did come back and did so for many years after, touring every 2 or 3 years. I am lucky to have seen him twice and it’s not often you can go to a gig and know every single word to every song that is played.
Should have played “Holly Holy” performed at the same ‘71 concert. He said it’s “transcendental” ( LOL).Every song has a video that he performed. He has such a unique and powerful voice. So talented!! Thanks, Fil.
Your research on Neil Diamond is spectacular. You mention many things I had not heard before.
Neil Diamond is one of my favorite singers. There are many songs of his I've heard over the years such as: I Am I Said, Sweet Caroline, Song Sung Blue, Cherry, Cherry, Forever in Blue Jean's Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show and many, many more. He has an incredible voice and he expresses his self through the lyrics of the songs he sings with a lot of emotions. Hes definitely one of the best! It was an outstanding analysis!
Thank you Fil. I am a big Neil Diamond fan. His music weaves through so many periods in my life. I was looking forward to his coming out to Australia this year, but sadly his illness meant he had to cancel. I have seen him live once and was the most surreal experience. It seemed as though the 2 hour concert was a 10 minute dream. He is an amazing writer and performer and I hope that his days are now full of family, friends and peace. Thank you so much.
I have 36 vinyl records albums of Neil Diamond. I have posters of Neil Diamond. I grew my hair long just like him. I'm crazy about his music and his fashion. I grew my young days collecting his records and pinups, posters of his. They are still with me to this day.
My all time favorite singer - have loved that man since 1967 💎 ❤. His concerts were absolutely the best and isn’t Sweet Caroline the catchiest song ever?! 🎶🎶♥️