Neil Diamond

Always one of my favorites

I recently spent some time immersed in the melodies of “Neil Diamond Essentials” on Apple Music. While I recognize he’s not everyone’s cup of tea, that’s inconsequential to me. Neil has been a musical staple in my life for as long as I can remember.

The very first album I bought as a budding teenager was “Neil Diamond: Gold (Recorded Live at the Troubadour, 1970).” To this day, it secures its spot as one of my all-time favorites. It’s a known fact that not every artist can captivate a crowd in a live setting, but Neil has an uncanny ability to do just that. Another standout in his live collection is “Hot August Night (Recorded in Concert at the Greek Theatre, Los Angeles, 1972).” On the other hand, his studio albums, for some reason, don’t resonate with me as much. Perhaps it’s the raw energy and rapport Neil shares with his live audience that makes those performances so memorable.

I count myself lucky to have witnessed his magic live, even if it was just once. The setting was the Pine Knob Music Theatre—a venue that, in my opinion, ranks among the best in the world for live concerts. And Neil’s performance? Simply unforgettable.

If you asked me to list down Neil’s tracks that have made a lasting impression on me, they’d be:

- Thank The Lord For The Night Time

- Holly Holy

- Cherry Cherry

- Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show

These songs not only spotlight the richness of his voice but also his undeniable charisma on stage.

As years rolled by, I confess my fondness for Neil’s more recent works slightly diminished. Somehow, his post-70s compositions didn’t strike the same chord with me. However, I steadfastly believe that anything he churned out before the 1980s is sheer brilliance.

It saddens me to acknowledge that Neil isn’t gracing the stage anymore, having taken a step back due to health reasons. Yet, in my heart, I’m convinced that the stage is where he truly belongs.