Neil Diamond nominated
for the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame!
According to IAIS -
Ballots will be sent to 500 Rock Hall voters who will decide who gets inducted!
The 500 Rock Hall members include previous inductees. The nominees who receive
the top votes will be announced some time in December. There are usually 5-7
inducted each year. The 26th Annual Induction Ceremony will take place on March
14th at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City.
The following link
will give more information on the nominations as well as the voting process.
Visit the
Rock Hall's website for more information on the Hall, the nominees,
and selection process.
As fans we
wanted a way to show our support for Neil's nomination. We wanted a very public
forum so fans from all over the world could show their support as well as their
enthusiasm for Neil's nomination. A fan came up with the idea of setting up a
Facebook website titled "Induct Neil Diamond into the Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame."
In today's social media world it's clear that would be the fastest, most
efficient and most noticeable way. We know this is a way for thousands of fans
to show their approval for Neil's nomination and to show support for Neil
Diamond's induction into the Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame.
New CD! Yes folks, after a
long wait, new music is coming! Neil Diamond's latest album, Alone Again, will be released on November 2nd. Neil has
put together a great bunch of songs as always. Pre-order your copy
today via the Amazon link below!
September 4, 2010
Neil Diamond to perform on
Stand Up to Cancer fundraising television Special - Tune in to the Stand
Up To Cancer TV Event, airing on NBC, ABC, Fox, CBS, and more on September
10th, 8PM Eastern Time. In addition to Neil's beautiful performance, there
will be appearances by Lady Gaga, Green Day, George Clooney, Renee
Zellweger and more, with pre-show event featuring Cat Deeley. Neil Diamond
fans will not want to miss this hour.
November 17, 2009
H
ave
yourself a merry little Christmas with Neil's latest Christmas CD, A
Cherry Cherry Christmas. This soon to be holiday favorite CD includes two
new Neil songs, A Cherry Cherry Christmas and Christmas Dream, as well as
holiday classics such as White Christmas and Winter Wonderland. Be sure
to pick up your copy today!!! And purchase a few extra for those on your
holiday gift list!!!
***Contest alert*** In celebration of
Neil's new holiday CD one lucky winner and their guest will have the
opportunity to attend Neil?s annual holiday party in Southern California.
Simply go to
http://www.neildiamond.com/pages/news/701
and upload a picture of yourself in a unique holiday sweater for your
chance to win!!!!
And be sure to watch Neil?s performance on
TNT?s Annual Music Concert CHRISTMAS IN WASHINGTON. The show will air on
TNT on Sunday, December 20 at 8pm (ET/PT).
August 11, 2009
Neil
Diamond's new TV Special and DVD
debut this Friday! CBS will air a one hour special Hot August Night / NYC
this Friday, August 14 at 8 PM. On the same day, the full DVD (longer
length, full concert and extras) will be available exclusively at
Wal-Mart.
ABC
News has an interesting article about the DVD and Neil's future plans,
which can be found
here.
June 1, 2009
Neil Diamond at
Boston Pops Fireworks concert 7/4/2009. You heard it here first (weeks
ago).Anyone
wanting to see the Boston Pops Concert & Fireworks this July 4th
here is a link to info page.
April 29, 2009
Big
news expected soon for New England area Neil Diamond fans. Stay
tuned for updates shortly.
In the meantime, you may
want to check out the exciting and authentic memorabilia on sale below
from the Scott Kelly Collection.
February 6, 2009 - Grammy /
MusicCares Weekend
Neil appeared on
the CBS Early Show Feb 6th (read
article here), opening an exciting weekend with the MusicCares tribute
to Neil Friday, and a performance at the Grammys on Sunday.
January 30, 2009 - Kid
Rock & Neil Diamond Sheet Music
Faith Hill and Kid Rock have been added
as performers for a musical tribute to Neil Diamond on Feb. 6 in Los
Angeles, according to
CMT (view article here). Additional performers include Eric Benét,
Terence Blanchard, Randy Newman, Urge Overkill, Cassandra Wilson and host
Jimmy Kimmel. Previously announced performers include Tim McGraw, Raul
Malo, the Jonas Brothers, Adele, Coldplay, Foo Fighters, Josh Groban and
Jennifer Hudson. Diamond will also perform at the event.
November 2008 - Neil
Diamond Named MusicCares Person of the Year.
May 18, 2008 - Neil
Diamond on ITV Audience With TV Show
Neil also taped a show for ITV's An Audience With Neil Diamond (for broadcast
in the UK on Saturday May 31st). Review Ian Graham explains the show...
"Neil
was asked a variety of questions by celebrities, some of which may never make
the final programme as this recording took exactly 2 hours and the show when
aired will be 1 hour long including commercial breaks. But some questions were:
Claire
Balding (TV Sports presenter); “Why do fans send you frogs?”
Neil told everyone
about I Am.. I said.. and the frogs, and also that he had a
section in his studio called “The Frogatarium” He also mentioned Jonathan
Livingston Seagull and said he had a number of Seagull related gifts there also.
He said as a result of these gifts he was trying to work on a song about a Rolls
Royce!
May 15, 2008 - Neil
Diamond: Guest DJ on Sirius Radio
Neil Diamond is going to choose some of his favorite songs - including
some of his compositions interpreted by other artists, and he'll give the
inside scoop behind the songs from his new album, Home Before Dark. Catch
Neil when he takes over Sirius Radio Channel 3on Friday May 16 at 9 pm ET,
Saturday May 17 at 9 am, Noon and 3 pm ET, and Sunday May 18 at 1 pm, 4 pm
and 7 pm. All times Eastern.
May 14, 2008 - Neil
Diamond's Home Before Dark debuts at #1 on the Billboard Album Charts!
Time to have a
celebration! Neil Diamond has his first ever #1 Album, as his new Rick
Rubin produced disc debuts at number one this week on the Billboard Album
charts. Though he has scored 45 previous albums in the Billboard top 200
chart, this is the first to rocket to #1. Congratulations Neil! Check out
the full
Columbia Records press release here.
A great
Billboard Q&A with Neil Diamond (link) confirms the #1 Spot, in which
Neil drops this exciting tidbit for us hardcore fans - "In
this show, there are quite a number of songs that haven't been done for 20
or 25 years."
May 13, 2008 - A few
Neil Diamond Odds & Ends
Billboard profiles Matt Sweeney, guitarist who
played on Neil Diamond's new CD and appeared with Neil live on stage at
the Bitter End last week. Sweeney has also played with bands such as
Zwan featuring Billy Corgan and also Chavez, as well as being a favored
session musician for various Rick Rubin projects.
Neil Diamond's
historic Thank You Australia concert will be released on video in the USA
this July,
check out Eagle Rock Entertainment, for further
details of this upcoming release.
May 8, 2008 - Sony's
Neil Diamond / Bitter End Show Press Release:
Neil Diamond treated his
dedicated fans to a historic show at the West Village's famed music venue
The Bitter End last night, May 7, 2008. He performed seven song set mixed
with new songs from his latest album, Home Before Dark, and classic
material. Diamond captivated the lucky first 200 concert-goers who had
queued-up since mid-morning upon learning of the secret show sponsored by
MySpace.
Neil Diamond greeted the long line of fans stationed outside The Bitter
End on Bleeker Street, saying hello and posing for pictures. Once inside
the club, Diamond, backed by a small band consisting of members from both
his studio and touring musicians, gave an energized acoustic performance
of "Solitary Man", "Don't Go There", "Home Before Dark", "Pretty Amazing
Grace", "Kentucky Woman", "Cherry, Cherry" and "Sweet Caroline". The club
placed speakers in the windows during the performance allowing the
hundreds of fans who couldn't get into the club to sing-along on the
street and sidewalk and participate in this once in a lifetime event.
photo photo by Ari Michelson
"I sang that song on this very stage 40 years ago," Diamond told the
adoring crowd after a raucous performance of his 1967 hit "Kentucky
Woman". Performance footage from The Bitter End show will be available on
www.myspace.com early next week.
Diamond's 27th studio album, Home Before Dark, was released on Tuesday,
May 6. A world tour will begin in Rotterdam, Netherlands on May 24;
returning to the US on July 19 (St. Paul, MN) hitting 37 cities stateside.
Diamond will return to NYC in August for a 3 night run at Madison Square
Garden. Full tour dates can be located at www.neildiamond.com.
May 8, 2008 - Neil Diamond Bitter End Concert
Great
show last night - The setlist was comprised of seven songs (see below) and
both Neil and the crowd were rocking!
Neil was introduced by
Paul Colby, a former owner of the Bitter End. For the show Neil wore
black slacks, shirt and a brown leather jacket. Neil played guitar the
entire show. Tonight's band was composed of Alan, Doug, Reine, Smokey
Hormel and Matt Sweeny.
May 6, 2008 - Review
Roundup: Neil Diamond's New CD Home Before Dark
New CD Release Day Today - May 6, 2008. Neil
Diamond's new CD Home Before Dark, is now available in a music
store near you. Produced again by Rick Rubin, Home Before Dark is the
eagerly awaited follow-up to the critically acclaimed Gold selling 12
Songs, which featured Neil in a stripped down, acoustic setting.
Highlights include a duet with Natalie Maines of the Dixie Chicks, and
standout tracks One More Bite of the Apple, Act Like a Man
(originally written in 1984, but never released before today), and the
title song.
The new CD"remains true to the organic
blueprint that casts Diamond's gifts in a fresh, gratifying light", reports
the Boston Globe (link here).
Diamond's "band, including a few of Tom
Petty’s Heartbreakers, plays immaculately. Memorable melodies are never in
shortage"
according to Adam McKibbin at
Metromix (link), who's 3 star review also
reports the interesting fact that
"Diamond earned himself a new nickname—“The Basher”—while recording the
album, thanks to his hyper-enthusiastic guitar playing".
The
Washington Times (link) glows about the new
material, noting the song One More Bite of the Apple as a standout
track which "is
about the joy Mr. Diamond finds in his return to writing original songs.
He sings, 1Free the word from the page/ Free the bird from the cage/ Just
go out there and face what you did before/ Did it once you can do it once
more.' Look for the spare but powerful guitar-and-piano-driven tune to be
the showstopper on his next tour."
and they conclude that "Mr. Diamond has never sounded so
gritty, so wise, so haunted and so grateful to be still alive as he does
on this genuinely moving album".
From the
Minneapolis Star Tribune (link)
"When he sings with Dixie Chick Natalie Maines on the piano-based ballad
Another Day (That Time Forgot), their voices blend beautifully; when he
carries an irresistible melody over shimmering guitars on "The Power of
Two," it's a refreshing reminder ... and when he turns in the spirited,
deeply reflective "One More Bite of the Apple," he seems positively
energized".
Martin Bandyke of the Detroit Free Press (link)
praises Neil Diamond's"skills
as a master craftsman in the art of pop songwriting. In that area, he has
few peers" and goes on to relate that
"Diamond's previous work with Rubin, 2005's "12 Songs,"
contained some fine moments, but "Home Before Dark" is far more powerful,
from the gripping duet with Dixie Chick Natalie Maines, "Another Day (That
Time Forgot)," to the poignant, complex title track. With their intimate
tone and mostly acoustic instrumentation, the songs have a warm, feel,
with no overproduction or over-emoting in sight."
From
the Dallas News (link):
"BOTTOM LINE: The exhilarating sound of
a mature man truly reconnecting with his younger, hungrier self."
Tripp Laino of Maryland University's
Diamondback Online Newspaper (link) opens his
article noting how uniquely busy Neil (and us fans) has been over the last
exciting week
"Neil
Diamond has had a hectic week. He played his arguably best-known song,
"Sweet Caroline," on the roof of Jimmy Kimmel's show April 29, hopped to
American Idol to perform "Pretty Amazing Grace" the next day and saw
SIRIUS Satellite Radio launch an all-Neil Diamond channel two days after
that" and his consistently
positive review later relates the opinion "Despite the
quieter feel expected from such an album, Diamond manages to find some
upbeat songs in those soft guitar sounds. "No Words" is a love song, but
it is not some syrupy-sweet teen love ballad. Instead, it is a profession
of love from someone who has been around the block a few times - and it
feels different from other songs like it ... Home Before Dark, as a whole
piece, is an excellent album."
The
Canadian Press (link) is impressed with Neil
Diamond's songwriting on the new CD,
"...we'll defy any singer-songwriter this year to come up with a
run of four stronger songs than the ones that open this album. Bookended
by the epic "If I Don't See You Again" and the Natalie Maines duet
"Another Day (That Time Forgot)," each song is assured and insightful.
Years of crusted bangles and beads prevent many people from taking Diamond
seriously as a songwriter".
After his first CD with Rick Rubin, Neil
immediately knew he wanted to work with Rubin again, "So
after "14 or 15 months" of writing, Diamond hit the studio with Rubin and
an improvisational-leaning band featuring guitarists Mike Campbell, Matt
Sweeney and Smokey Hormel and keyboardist Benmont Tench. Dixie Chicks
vocalist Natalie Maines chipped in on "Another Day (That Time Forgot),"
Diamond's first major duet with a female singer since "You Don't Bring Me
Flowers" with Barbra Streisand in 1978."
Reports Reuters News Here.
April 18, 2008 - Neil to
appear on Jimmy Kimmel Live
Announcement: Neil
Diamond is going to be performing an outdoor mini-concert on Jimmy Kimmel
Live Tuesday, April 29th. Neil Diamond fans can get free
tickets at
here on the Jimmy Kimmel's Website.
April 15,2008 - 2008 US Tour
Dates Announced!
See Tour dates below for
reference. For up to date ticket information, on sale dates, arena
information, etc - please visit our Tour Date Page.
July 2008
7/19/2008 St Paul, MN - Tickets on sale April 28th /
Presale April 21st
7/22/2008 Sioux City, IA - Tickets on sale April
28th / Presale April 21st
7/24/2008 Omaha, NE - Tickets on sale April 28th /
Presale April 21st
7/26/2008 Chicago, IL - Tickets on sale April 28th /
Presale April 21st
7/29/2008 Indianapolis, IN - Tickets on sale April
28th / Presale April 21st
7/31/2008 Auburn Hills, MI - Tickets on sale April
28th / Presale April 21st
August 2008
8/3/2008 Cleveland, OH
- Tickets on sale April 28th / Presale April 21st
8/7/2008 Hartford, CT
- Tickets on sale April 28th / Presale April 21st
8/9/2008 Philadelphia, PA
- Tickets on sale April 28th / Presale April 21st
8/12/2008 New York, NY
- Tickets on sale April 28th / Presale April 21st
8/14/2008 New York, NY
- Tickets on sale April 28th / Presale April 21st
8/18/2008 Pittsburgh, PA
- Tickets on sale April 28th / Presale April 21st
8/20/2008 Albany, NY
- Tickets on sale April 28th / Presale April 21st
8/23/2008 Boston, MA - Fenway Park
- Tickets on sale April 28
8/25/2008 Columbus, OH
- Tickets on sale April 28th / Presale April 21st
8/27/2008 Green Bay, WI
- Tickets on sale April 28th / Presale April 21st
8/29/2008 St Louis, MO
- Tickets on sale April 28th / Presale April 21st
September 2008
9/14/2008 Winnipeg, MB - Tickets on sale April 28th
/ Presale April 21st
9/16/2008 Edmonton, AB - Tickets on sale April 28th
/ Presale April 21st
9/18/2008 Calgary, AB - Tickets on sale April 28th /
Presale April 21st
9/20/2008 Vancouver, BC - Tickets on sale April 28th
/ Presale April 21st
9/22/2008 Portland, OR - Tickets on sale April 28th
/ Presale April 21st
9/24/2008 Seattle, WA - Tickets on sale April 28th /
Presale April 21st
9/26/2008 Sacramento, CA - Tickets on sale April
28th / Presale April 21st
9/28/2008 San Jose, CA - Tickets on sale April 28th
/ Presale April 21st
October 2008
10/1/2008 Hollywood, CA - Tickets on sale April 28th
/ Presale April 21st
10/2/2008 Hollywood, CA - Tickets on sale April 28th
/ Presale April 21st
10/7/2008 San Diego, CA - Tickets on sale April 28th
/ Presale April 21st
10/10/2008 Glendale, AZ - Tickets on sale April 28th
/ Presale April 21st
10/12/2008 San Antonio, TX - Tickets on sale April
28th / Presale April 21st
10/14/2008 Houston, TX - Tickets on sale April 28th
/ Presale April 21st
10/16/2008 Dallas, TX - Tickets on sale April 28th /
Presale April 21st
10/19/2008 Oklahoma City, OK - Tickets on sale April
28th / Presale April 21st
10/21/2008 Tulsa, OK - Tickets on sale April 28th /
Presale April 21st
10/24/2008 Tampa, FL - Tickets on sale April 28th /
Presale April 21st
10/26/2008 Ft Lauderdale, FL - Tickets on sale April
28th / Presale April 21st
10/28/2008 Orlando, FL - Tickets on sale April 28th
/ Presale April 21st
10/30/2008 Jacksonville, FL - Tickets on sale April
28th / Presale April 21st
April 8,2008 - Fenway Park
Concert Confirmed!
Fenway Park Concert Confirmed! Neil
Diamond will play Boston's Fenway Park on August 23rd, it was announced
today. Tickets to go on sale April 28th. See the official announcement
here on Neil's website.
Neil sang Sweet Caroline today via
satellite at the Red Sox's home opener. He and his band were decked
out in full Red Sox gear - shirts & jackets. Red Sox owner Tom Warner, and
Wally the Green Monster (the Sox mascot) also appeared on the screen to
sing "backup" with the band.
Diamond has
long been a favorite of Boston Red Sox Fans, as his song Sweet
Caroline, is played (and sung loudly by the crowd) during every
game. In a traditions which started 6 years ago, the song is featured
during the 8th inning.
Still no tour dates
announced today, but with all the rumors, and with summer fast
approaching, surely we will hear soon! Will post here as soon as they are
released.
Click here to go to Amazon and see Neil's
brand new video for Pretty Amazing Grace, the first single from his forth coming CD Home
Before Dark.
April 5,2008 - Tour dates to
be announced Monday?
An email from FOND
strongly indicates that Neil Diamond's 2008 USA Tour dates will be
announced Monday. Check back here on Monday, and visit
Neil's Myspace Site then
as well, for more possible surprises.
April 5,2008 - Neil Diamond
to Play Fenway Park?
Neil to play Fenway Park?
Rumor from the
Boston Globe today.....
We're told the Jersey rocker, who was
lined up to play at Fenway this summer, is officially out. So who'll carry
on the concert series at the lyric little bandbox? How about James
Taylor and Neil Diamond? That's the buzz at the
moment, though no one will say it on the record. (To its credit, The
Boston Courant has the news on its front page today.) No dates have been
announced, but the Sox previously applied to the city for live-music
permits on July 19 and 20. A fan favorite because his song "Sweet
Caroline" is played at every Sox home game, Diamond is scheduled to tour
Europe in May and June, but his website lists no dates in July.
Bob Fosse's Dancin'
Returns to Broadway in 2009. According to
Dancer Universe,
"Originally produced in 1978,
Dancin' was inspired by a diverse songbook that contains everything
from classical and jazz standards to quirky pop music by Neil Diamond and
Cat Stevens...One of these numbers was "Crunchy Granola Suite" set to the
musical stylings of Neil Diamond."
See video from the Tony
Award winning production below.
March 15,2008
A bit of additional
detail regarding Neil's forthcoming album, Home Before Dark: the CD
will feature a duet with Natalie Maines of the Dixie Chicks.
March 5,2008
Breaking news: Neil's new
CD will be entitled Home Before Dark, and is tentatively set for release in
the USA on April 29th. UPDATE: New release date is
May 6th. Available in deluxe or regular version. Click
below to pre-order from Amazon.com and get your CD in the mail on the
release date.
Its been a slow summer
for Neil news, but Smokey Hormel has recently said he is due to work on a
new album with Neil soon. Hopefully, there will be more news about this
project in the future.
May 11, 2006
Keeping up with
the Steins is being released this week in limited markets. In this
great new film, Neil Diamond shows up and sings Hava Nagila at a bar
mitzvah. Check
here to see where
the film is opening in its first week, or
view the trailer.
The Canadian
Press comments "With its sitcommy dialogue, wacky family antics and
good-natured ribbing of religious traditions, Keeping Up With the Steins
plays like My Big Fat L.A. Bar Mitzvah. And yet, like the 2002 surprise
smash My Big Fat Greek Wedding, the movie is so warmhearted and
well-intentioned, it's hard not to be charmed....Besides, Neil Diamond
shows up and sings Hava Nagila. What's not to like? (read the
full article here).
May 4, 2006
Many people have written to ask why is no song book
available for Neil Diamond's latest album. Well, great news - The 12 Songs
Song Book is to be released on May 24th. Click the graphic above to
pre-order and have it delivered to your home this month.
A New CDof
Neil Diamond cover tunes,Forever Neil Diamond, set to be released on
May 23rd.
According to Rolling Stone:
The decade-spanning disc includes recordings (of Diamond tunes) by
the MONKEES , URGE OVERKILL, UB40, and BOBBY WOMACK.
As Amazon.com relates:
"Neil Diamond." To many, the name evokes bright lights, stage costumes
that would make Elvis jealous, and legions of female fans in the audience.
But there’s another Neil Diamond—Neil the songwriter....The new collection
Forever Neil Diamond
presents 14 of the best and most popular covers of classic Neil Diamond
songs, including UB40’s #1 smash recasting of "Red Red Wine," Urge
Overkill’s memorable version of "Girl, You’ll Be A Woman Soon" from the
Pulp Fiction soundtrack, Deep Purple’s hard-rock take on "Kentucky Woman,"
and even Elvis Presley himself paying tribute to Neil’s songwriting
prowess. The result is a fun and engaging look at the real Neil—Neil the
songwriter.
April 14, 2006
King Errisson (who works the
congas in Neil's band, as if you didn't know) has a great new album out.
Check out
King Errisson's Website to purchase.
Also, King will be in
concert May 12, 13 & 14 at the new King's Pavilion in the Four Queens
Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas. Now how about some East Coast dates King?
April 11, 2006
The Neil Diamond Story radio
show will air on BBC radio in the UK on April 18th at 20:30. You can
listen to the
BBC Show Live here
at the appropriate time. .
Enjoy!
April 5, 2006
Neil's new album 12 Songs
is now available in the UK and Europe. Of course, we'd recommend
everyone go out and buy a copy. If you go over a friend's for dinner,
don't bring a bottle of wine, bring a copy of Neil's latest CD.
Don't miss Neil's upcoming
appearance on ABC's
The View - Wednesday Nov 9th. With all
the excitement surrounding the release of the new CD, this will be a
special appearance not to be missed!
Also appearing on the Today
Show, Tuesday Nov 8th and the Tonight Show on Nov 14th.
September 28, 2005
As
previously reported, Neil's new album will be released on November 8th.
However, it now appears the CD will be called 12 Songs,(containing
13 songs) rather than self-titled. Here is the track listing for the
eagerly awaited collection.
1. Oh Mary
2. Hell Yeah
3. Captain of a
Shipwreck
4. Evermore
5. Save Me A
Saturday Night
6. Delirious Love
7. I'm On To You
8. What's It Gonna
Be
9. Man of God
10. Create Me
11. Face Me
12. We
13. Men Are So Easy
September 27, 2005
THE JAZZ SINGER: 25th ANNIVERSARY
ANCHOR BAY
ENTERTAINMENT BRINGS
MUSIC LEGEND NEIL
DIAMOND
TO DVD IN A SPECIAL 25TH
ANNIVERSARY EDITION
TROY, MI – This October, celebrate the Silver Anniversary of
one man, his song and a dream. Rich with tension and the bittersweet
taste of success and separation, 1980’s THE JAZZ SINGER stands as a
heart-wrenching journey through personal strife and upheaval. Music
legend Neil Diamond, the incomparable Laurence Olivier and Lucie Arnaz
star in the latest re-telling of the first ‘talkie’, originally released
in 1927. Bonus features on the DVD include audio commentary by producer
Jerry Leider, the movie’s theatrical trailer and stills as well as
biographies on Diamond, Olivier and director Richard Fleischer. THE
JAZZ SINGER will be available for the SRP of $19.98 on October 18, 2005.
THE JAZZ SINGER, a triple Golden Globe™ nominee for Best
Actor (Diamond), Best Supporting Actress (Arnaz) and Best Original Song
(Love on the Rocks), follows Yussel Rabinowitz, a talented cantor with
dreams of stardom that eventually distance him from his close-knit
family and faith. Yussel’s father (Olivier) and wife Rivka (Catlin
Adams) disapprove of Yussel’s pursuit of a career in music, yet
reluctantly let him follow promoter Molly Bell (Arnaz) to Los Angeles.
After some disappointment, Bell is finally able to land a gig for Yussel
that will showcase his talent and put him on the brink of realizing his
dreams, just as his father and wife follow him out west to plead for his
return to New York. The temptations of fame and Bell play against
Yussel’s reclusive upbringing and familial commitment, making for very
tense and emotionally challenging moments that test one man’s
willingness to risk it all to follow a dream.
Multi-platinum recording artist Neil Diamond has his acting
debut in this film, alongside screen legend Laurence Olivier (Wuthering
Heights, Hamlet, Spartacus) and Lucie Arnaz (daughter of TV legends
Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz). Of the 120 million worldwide album sales,
THE JAZZ SINGER soundtrack is Diamond’s best-selling album and features
popular hits such as “Love on the Rocks”, “Hello Again” and “America”.
In 1982, the soundtrack earned a Grammy nomination and in 1991, the song
“America” won the ASCAP award for Most Performed Feature Film
Standards. Neil Diamond is currently on his 2005 World Tour, and will
debut a new album this November.
Anchor Bay
Entertainment is an established leader in the field of home
entertainment. The company offers an expansive selection of
award-winning, notable theatrical films including “Time Bandits” and
“Halloween,” classic television programming such as “3rd Rock
from the Sun,” “Three’s Company,” “Highlander” and much of the Stephen
J. Cannell library, traditional children’s fare featuring the
ever-popular Thomas & Friends collection and Mister Rogers Neighborhood,
the impressive Manga anime line and chart-topping fitness titles
including the "Crunch" and "For Dummies" series. Anchor Bay
Entertainment is aggressively developing a wide range of original
programs and concepts in addition to licensing existing brands and
films.
Anchor Bay Entertainment is a subsidiary of IDT
Entertainment. IDT Entertainment is
a vertically integrated entertainment company that develops, produces,
and distributes proprietary and licensed entertainment content. IDT
Entertainment is a subsidiary of IDT Corporation (NYSE:IDT, IDT.C), an
international telecom, entertainment, and technology company.
Neil Diamond
is in the GMTV studios live on Friday 13th May to chat about his upcoming
UK Tour and to perform for us live. For more info see the
GMTV Website.
May 2, 2005
Neil on TV! See Neil on the
Today Show Friday May 6th, and on Ellen Degeneres Monday, May 9th.
Don't forget tickets on sale
May 9th for Neil's 2005 US Tour - see you there!
Billboard Magazine reports
that Neil's new CD (produced by Rick Rubin) will be released before his US
tour kicks off this July.
March 5,
2005
Neil opened his 2005 world
tour last night in Wellington, New Zealand. Visit our
Neil Diamond TourBlog 2005
to see the set list, with reviews and (hopefully) photos coming
soon. See photo from the New Zealand Herald at left.
March 2,
2005
Send us your
photos of
Neil from his concert tour this year, and we will post them in a special
fan photo gallery to appear soon on our Neil Diamond TourBlog. This
gallery will be the premier place for fans to see photos from the 2005
tour, so check back soon for the opening of the gallery, and please
contribute photos when the show comes to your town.
Please
keep in mind that
the Neil Diamond TourBlog 2005
is your source for up to the minute reviews and information about
upcoming shows. This is the section of our site to go to if you want to
hear the latest on the tour, see newspaper articles and reviews from the
cities Neil is visiting, see the newest concert photos, etc
February
23, 2005
Did
anyone notice that
Diamondville
was updated
yesterday? The new PBI contains the winning A2A reviews. The winning one,
written by Glenda Atchison, is a hoot to read!
February
17, 2005
Blogging" is the latest rage on the internet, and so we are glad to
introduce a brand new feature,
the Neil Diamond TourBlog 2005.
This Blog is intended to be a comprehensive central resource for fans to
find the latest tour information, newspaper articles, photos, reviews of
the shows and more in a city by city format.
Fans can interact back with the blog by using the comments section to post
their thoughts and reviews, plan meet ups with other fans, etc. We expect
the blog to be constantly updated from now and forward through the entire
tour. Questions/Suggestions? Let us know what you think by commenting on
the blog itself, or by emailing us at
NDiamondHP@aol.com.
This is
a great time of year to plan to get away from the cold weather with a
relaxing vacation in the Bahamas. Check out our own
King Errisson's Pestel Beach Resort for a
unique and beautiful getaway.
February
15, 2005
Tickets for Neil's US Tour
will go on sale May 9, 2005. Dates are expected to be announced shortly.
Confirmed European dates include Neil's long awaited return to Woburn,
and many more dates.
Click here to view our tour dates page
for the latest info.
Taking America to America
is the brand new CD from Tom Hensley (and the rest of Neil's band). As Tom
explains it "Hensley
sings a few novelty songs and then lets the better singers in the band
(including Linda Press, Doug Rhone and King Errisson) step in to do the
serious work.
Neil to play New
Zealand in early 2005? Newspaper reports out of Wellington, NZ claim that
Neil concerts in that country will be announced next week, to take place
in February, 2005.
Read the Dominion Post article by clicking here.
August 8, 2004
Purple Records have re-released the label's original 12 track
1973 sampler 'Purple People' on CD, complete with eight bonus
tracks and a 16 page booklet detailing the story of the label
and its acts.
The tracks include 'Look Out Cleveland' from Carol Hunter's
1973 solo album on Purple Records. For more info,
visit the Purple
Records website.
June
25,2004
Associated Press
- Neil Diamond and Barbra Streisand reunite for the Kerry
Victory 2004 Concert fund-raiser at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los
Angeles, Thursday night, June 24, 2004. Streisand and Neil Diamond
performed their 1978 hit 'You Don't Bring Me Flowers' together for the
first time in 24 years. (AP Photo/Michael Caulfield, WireImage.com)
The
fundraiser for John Kerry, originally scheduled for June 7th,
has been rescheduled for June 24, 2004. According to Kerry’s campaign
office the list of celebrities originally scheduled to appear at this
event will remain the same.
June 7,2004
June
7th Fundraiser Postponed
The
political fundraiser that Neil was to appear at on June 7th has
been cancelled/postponed. John Kerry decided to
cancel
this and all his campaign events this week in observance of the passing of
former President Ronald Reagan. According to one news report a new date
will be announced when the concert is rescheduled.
June 4,2004
Neil to perform at Kerry
Fundraiser on June 7th
Neil is among several
celebrities scheduled to perform at a fundraiser for John Kerry on June 7,
2004 at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, California. The
concert will also feature Barbra Streisand, Willie Nelson and Billy
Crystal. Although it has yet to be confirmed, rumor has it that Neil and
Barbra will perform “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” together at this event.
If rumor proves to be true it will be the duos’ first performance
together in 24 years. Tickets for the fundraiser are $2,000, $10,000 and
$25,000. The $2,000 tickets include admission to the concert portion of
the fundraiser only. The $10,000 and $25,000 tickets are per couple and,
in addition to the concert, include dinner with the candidate which will
be held at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Tickets can be obtained by
calling 310-556-9172.
For the Hollywood Reporter article regarding this event click here.
Neil Diamond News August,
2003
Coming to stores on
September 30th - Neil's new box set Stages - Performaces 1970-2002.
This incredible set will include 5 audio cd's of never-before released
Diamond live tracks, and one DVD featuring a number of songs from Neil's
2002 Dublin concert, as well as backstage footage, interviews with Neil
and the band, and much more.
Here's a list of the track (courtesy
of ICE magazine) with a single asterisk (*) after tracks making their
live CD debut and double asterisk (**) after those debuting in any form:
Disc One (Full show, Las Vegas 12/27/02)
* "Overture"
* "America"
* "A Mission of Love" (*)
* "Hello Again"
* "Kentucky Woman"
* "The Boat That I Row" (*)
* "Cherry, Cherry"
* "Red, Red Wine"
* "I'm A Believer"
* "Play Me"
* "Love On the Rocks"
* "Soolaimon"
* "If You Know What I Mean"
* "Beautiful Noise"
* "Girl, You'll Be a Woman Soon"
* "I Haven't Played This Song in Years" (*)
* "You Are the Best Part of Me" (*)
* "Forever in Blue Jeans"
Disc Two (part 2 of Las Vegas show)
* "Starflight" (*)
* "Captain Sunshine"
* " Holly Holy"
* "Sweet Caroline"
* "Sweet Caroline (Reprise)"
* "You Don't Bring Me Flowers"
* "Yes I Will/Lady Magdalene"
* "Shilo"
* "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother"
* "I Am, I Said"
* "Cracklin' Rosie"
* "Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show"
* "America (Walk Off)"
Disc Three (song titles are followed by location and year of recording)
* "Lordy" (Los Angeles, 1970; the only previously released track in the
box)
* "Brooklyn Roads" (Portland, OR, 1971)
* "Home Is a Wounded Heart" (Las Vegas, 1976)
* "The Last Picasso" (Las Vegas, 1976)
* "The Last Thing on My Mind" (Los Angeles, 1976) (*)
* "You Got to Me" (Woburn Abbey, England, 1977)
* "God Only Knows" (St. Paul, 1977; Brian Wilson original) (*)
* "Lay Lady Lay" (Michigan, 1978; Bob Dylan original) (**)
* "Glory Road" (Michigan, 1978)
* " Rocket Man" (Michigan, 1978; Elton John/Bernie Taupin original) (**)
* "Say Maybe" (Charlotte, NC, 1978)
* " Once in a While" (Atlanta, 1978) (*)
* "Rainy Day Song" (San Francisco, 1981) (*)
* " Guitar Heaven (South Carolina, 1982) (*)
* "Songs of Life" (Arizona, 1983)
* "Fire on the Tracks" (Oakland, CA, 1983) (*)
* "Brooklyn on a Saturday Night" (Calgary, 1985) (*)
* "Primitive" (Calgary, 1985) (*)
* "The Story of My Life" (Los Angeles, 1986)
Disc Four
* " This Time" (Dublin, 1989) (*)
* "The American Popular Song" (Dublin,1989) (*)
* "Teach Me Tonight" (Dublin, 1989; Sammy Cahn original) (**)
* "Dedicated to the One I Love (Dublin, 1989; originally recorded by The
Shirelles) (**)
* "Spanish Harlem" (Dublin, 1989) (*)
* "Beatles Medley: Golden Slumbers, Carry That Weight, The End" (Dublin,
1989; from Abbey Road) (**)
* "Sweet L.A. Days" (Los Angeles, 1992) (*)
* "Fortune of the Night" (Sydney, Australia, 1992) (*)
* "Mountains of Love" (Melbourne, Australia,1992)
* "If There Were No Dreams" (Melbourne, Australia, 1992)
* "All I Really Need Is You" (Sydney, Australia, 1992)
* "Yesterday's Songs" (Sydney, Australia, 1992)
* "Can Anybody Hear Me (Sydney, Australia, 1996) (*)
* "Talking Optimist Blues (Sydney, Australia, 1996) (*)
* "Everybody" (Ames, IA, 1996) (*)
* "Marry Me" (Hampton Roads, VA, 1996) (*)
* " In My Lifetime" (Milwaukee, 1996) (*)
* " I Got the Feelin' (Oh No, No)" (Toronto, 1998) (*)
* "Longfellow Serenade" (Keil, Germany, 1999)
* "Unchained Melody" (Bakersfield, 1999; Righteous Brothers original)
(*)
* "I Believe in Happy Endings" (Las Vegas, 2001) (*)
Disc Five
* "Oh Holy Night" (Detroit, 1993) (*)
* "Silent Night" (Chicago, 1993) (*)
* "White Christmas" (Chicago, 1993) (*)
* "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" (Charlotte, NC, 1978) (*)
* "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" (Los Angeles, 1993) (*)
* "Little Drummer Boy" (Los Angeles, 1993) (*)
* "Morning Has Broken" (Los Angeles, 1993) (*)
* "You Make It Feel Like Christmas" (Buffalo, NY, 1993)
* "The Christmas Song" (Chicago, 1999) (*)
* "Winter Wonderland" (Salt Lake City, 1979) (*)
* " Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" (Los Angeles, 1993) (*)
* "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" (Dublin, 1989) (*)
Disc Six - DVD
* " America"
* "Hello Again"
* "Solitary Man"
* "I'm A Believer"
* "September Morn"
* "Beautiful Noise"
* "Girl, You'll Be a Woman Soon"
* "Sweet Caroline"
* "Sweet Caroline (Reprise)"
* "I Am, I Said"
* "Cracklin' Rosie"
* "Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show"
* Backstage: Welcome to Diamondville 2001-2002 (A Documentary of Life on
the Road.
Neil Diamond News June 11,
2003
The new single from
Smash Mouth "You're My Number One," has just been released, and the
tune was co-written by Neil Diamond. The band performed the tune this
morning on the
CBS Early Show, click here for the video.
Neil Diamond News January 2,
2003
Neil will be taking 2003 off
from touring, no concert dates are expected this year.
Neil Diamond News September
24, 2002
Rumors abound that Neil will
be touring Australia and New Zealand in the spring of 2003. A recent
article in the Wellington, NZ newspapers reports as follows:
Superstar singer-songwriter Neil Diamond is tipped
to play Wellington's WestpacTrust Stadium in April.
Diamond, 61, would be only the second rock act to appear at the stadium
since it opened 2-1/2-years ago.
Stadium spokesman Steve Thompson would not confirm the concert but said:
"We are in negotiation with a major artist.
"No announcement will be made till a deal has been signed."
Diamond's career spans four decades and features such hit songs as Girl,
You'll Be A Woman Soon, Cracklin' Rosie, Sweet Caroline and I Am . . . I
Said.
One of his first hits was actually sung by manufactured American band The
Monkees, who took I'm A Believer up the charts. Diamond last visited New
Zealand in 1999, when he played four Christchurch shows.
Of course
this is still subject to change, but we have our fingers crossed, and will
post any announcement here as soon as it is official.
Neil Diamond News September 16, 2002 Neil's December 2002 tourdates have been confirmed.
Look for tickets to go on sale Sept 30th, and don't forget many shows will
have a presale prior to this date. Please check our Neil Diamond
Schedule Page to see when Neil will be in your town, the show is
fantastic, dont miss it!
Neil Diamond News September 15, 2002 We are still awaiting the
final confirmation of Neil's winter tour dates. However, Lubbock Texas on
Dec 3 is widely believed to be the opener. Dates are expected to last into
January and include such cites as Ames IA, Houston TX, Las Vegas, and
more. Neil's current tour will take him to New York and New Jersey this
week, followed by a return to New England next weekend, including sold out
shows in Portland, ME and Manchester, NH.
Neil Diamond News September 6, 2002 Neil resumed his US tour last
night in New Orleans, LA. Songs performed at the show were the same
setlist as the last night in London, featuring recent additions such as
The Boat That I Row, Septemer Morn, and Hello Again. As the tour
continues, check our Neil Diamond
Schedule Page to see when Neil will be in your town (more fall/early
winter US dates are expected to be announced soon), the show is fantastic,
dont miss it!
Neil Diamond News August 29, 2002
On
August 25th, Neil appeared on the 22nd
annual L’Chaim-To Life! Telethon, performing America. The
telethon raised much needed funds for the continued support of vital
community programs. Please visit the
Chabad Website for details and photos!
Neil Diamond News May 20, 2002 VCR Alert - Neil has taped a
new promotional spot with Rosie O'Donnell, see it on Rosie's show this
Wednesday, May 22. Also, new US tour dates have been announced for the
fall, check out our
Tourdates Page
for all the details!
Neil Diamond News May 19, 2002 ... by L. Pollard
Satuday May 18th was Will Ferrell's last night on Saturday Night Live.
During the "news" segment, they introduced "Neil Diamond," portrayed by
Will. "Neil" spoke a few lines then began to sing Cherry Cherry. As he
sang, he introduced a few other characters.....then introduced the REAL
Neil!! REAL Neil then joined in the singing of Cherry Cherry. (REAL Neil
was dressed in black; Will as Neil was dressed in the outfit he usually
wears, portraying Neil as he looked the night he received the American
Music Award.) REAL Neil was only on for about 30-45 seconds, but it was
great seeing him.
The real Neil also stood next to Will during the closing segment of the
show, when they thank the guests. You could see him on camera for a
minute, or so, drifting through the crowd, shaking hands with the various
SNL players.
Neil Diamond News May 17, 2002
Neil
appeared at the NYU graduation ceremonies on May 15, in New York City's
Washington Square Park. An Alumni of NYU, Neil wrote a brand new song
Forever NYU just for this occasion, and sang it to the crowd of appox
5,000. "I was just writing something fun for the kids to go out with,"
Diamond said.
You can view a video of the
commencement complete with Neil's performance (at approx 2 hrs 49 mins
into video), online at the
NYU Website.
Photo courtesy of newsday.com please
visit their website!
Neil Diamond News October 31, 2001
Neil's new
Essential CD will be released on Dec 4. Its a greatest hits compilation
but will include live tracks recorded on the current tour, including
Captain Sunshine, He Ain't Heavy, and Yes I Will/Lady Magdelene.
Neil Diamond News October 29, 2001
Breaking News:
Neil will be playing the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on Sunday December 30th
and Monday, New Years Eve. Tickets will be on sale via internet presale
starting Tuesday at 5 PM Pacific Time. Please
visit Ticketmaster.com for more info, and good luck!
Neil Diamond News July 18, 2001
Additional information on the VH1 Behind the Music Special (airing Sunday
July 22nd at 10:30am and 11pm) - our source at VH1 tells us that the
special will 'pretty much take on Neil's entire life, from the day he was
born up to the present including the new album -- as much as we can fit
into an hour. Our interviews include Neil of course, Ellie Greenwich, Paul
Shaffer, Bob Gaudio, Richard Bennett, Lucie Arnaz, Reine and Linda Press,
Daisy Press, Peter Asher, Jack Black, and SuperDiamond's Surreal Neil.'
Neil Diamond News July 15, 2001
FALL TOUR SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED!
Check for a concert in your city by visiting our Neil Diamond
Schedule Page.
Neil Diamond News June 20, 2001
Neil will be appearing on A&E's Live By Request TV Show on July 28th
9-11PM. What song would you like to request Neil to sing on the show? Vote
below, and we will email the results of the survey to A&E to let them know
the fans most requested songs!
Neil will be featured on an
episode of VH1's Behind the Music, to premiere on Sunday July 22nd. In
addition, the track listing for Neil's forthcoming album Three Chord
Opera has been released and is as follows:
Vince
Charles; Steel Drummer for Neil Diamond Vince Charles, 55, steel drummer with Neil
Diamond for the past 25 years and previously with Herb Alpert and the
Tijuana Brass, died June 3 in Los Angeles.
Born in St. Kitts and reared in the Virgin Islands, Charles performed
in the Caribbean Pavilion at the New York World's Fair in 1964-65. Then,
after playing at Canada's Montreal Expo '67, he moved to Los Angeles,
where he became a studio musician and worked with Alpert.
His work can be heard on the Beach Boys' hit recording "Kokomo" and
on such movie soundtracks as "Cocktail," "The Little Mermaid" and "Trading
Places" and sequels to "Ghostbusters" and "Police Academy."
First asked to work with Diamond on "Reggae Strut" for the 1973 album
"Serenade," Charles joined the band in 1977 and had toured with Diamond
since. Charles also played Los Angeles clubs with his own group, Vince
Charles and Friends, and recorded three albums, "Mixture 44," "Soliloquy"
and "Caribbean Christmas."
Neil Diamond News June 4, 2001
We are deeply saddened to
have to announce that Vince Charles, Neil's longtime Steel Drum Player,
has passed away.
I was just telling another steel drum player last week that Vince was the
number one steel drum player of all time, and now he is gone. What a
tragic loss this is. Vince always had such a cheerful attitude and was so
much fun to be around. It is so hard to imagine a concert or an after
concert get together without him. I'm sure that all Neil's fans will miss
him very much.
We wish to extend our deepest sympathies to Vince's family, friends, Neil
and the band. Our thoughts are with you during this time of grief.
Neil Diamond News June 3, 2001
According to very reliable
sources, we have learned that the CD is tentatively entitled Three
Chord Opera. This seeminly odd title may be a humorous reference to
Neil's Bang-era reputation of writing songs in three chords. Of course (as
is always the case with Neil) this is subject to change until officially
announced.
Neil Diamond News May 2001
Neil's new album (as yet
untitled) has been completed, and will be released in late July. In
addition, Neil will be appearing on numerous television shows to promote
the new albums, notably 'The View' on July 30th, and on the Today Show's
concert series, July 27th. Neil is widely rumored to be kicking off a new
world tour in fall 2001. However, this has not been officially confirmed,
and no dates have yet been announced. As soon as any official word it
released, it will appear in this space - stay tuned!
Neil Diamond News Feb
2001
A brand new song from Neil
was featured in the film Saving Silverman, which opened February 9th.
In addition to Neil's appearance in the film, this hilarious comedy also
stars Jack Black and Steve Zahn, Jason Biggs, and Amanda Peet. The song
is entitled “I Believe in Happy Endings” and is already being met with
high praise from the Neil Diamond fan community.
For more
information on the movie,
visit the Saving
Silverman website at
http://www.spe.sony.com/movies/savingsilverman/.
Neil Diamond News October 2000
Neil
recently completed filming for his appearance in the upcoming movie,
Saving Silverman, starring Jason Biggs among others. It is also thought
that Neil has written two new songs, expect to be on the soundtrack. The
expected release date of the film is February 16, 2001. For some behind
the scenes news of this movie visit
http://www.spe.sony.com/movies/savingsilverman/.
Neil Diamond News 6/14/00
Neil will be recieving a Lifetime
Achievment Award from the Songwriter's Hall of Fame on Thursday Night,
June 15th. Artist Jill Sobule will perform Neil's hit "I'm a Believer" as
a tribute to Neil. This year the event is not televised, but the hall is
now under the direction of veteran songwriter Hal David, who hopes to have
a television contract in future years, and a physical location for the
Hall is planned to be built soon, in NYC.
In addition, Neil will be filming
scenes this summer for his part in the upcoming film "Saving Silverman",
scheduled for 2001 release.
Neil Diamond News 8/1/99
Longtime
Diamond drummer Ron Tutt, 61, suffered a heart attack on Wednesday, July
28th and was admitted to Bakersfield Memorial Hospital, where he underwent
double bypass surgery. While reports on his condition are sketchy, the
surgery was considered a success. We all wish Ron a speedy recovery and
good health in the future.
We have learned that experienced Nashville drummer Paul Leim will be
taking over Ron's duties in Neil's band for the foreseeable future,
beginning with the next Diamond show in Phoenix on August 2nd. Paul is no
stranger to the Neil Diamond world, as he played the drums on a number of
tunes from Neil's critically acclaimed Tennessee Moon CD
including Shame, A Matter of Love and Talking Optimist Blues,
among others.
As for future tour plans past the dates announced, we have no word as of
yet, although it is widely expected that December dates will be added.
However, this is totally unconfirmed speculation at this time. More info
will be posted as it becomes available.
Neil Diamond News 3/5/99
A number
of tourdates for Neil's summer tour are now available. The announced dates
take Neil thru much of the Western USA and Canada. Check out our
Tour Dates Section for the latest info! Additional tourdates in the
Midwest and Eastern USA are expected in late September and October, and
will be announced as soon as possible.
Neil Diamond News 3/3/99
Neil continues his world tour this
month, visiting Great Britain, The Netherlands, and Germany. Read all
about the shows there on our
Concert Reviews Page. It is expected that Neil will tour throughout
the USA this summer and early fall. The announcement of specific tour
dates is expected to take place in mid Spring - of course - we will let
you know here on the Neil Diamond Homepage the moment details are known.
Neil Diamond News 11/21/98
If you
missed Neil’s half-hour TV special The Making of the Movie Album,
it will be rerun on November 21st and 27th at 9:30 PM Eastern time on the
AMC (American Movie Classics) channel. (Check your local listings for
details in your area). The special is a wonderful behind-the-scenes look
at the making of Neil Diamond's latest album of classic Hollywood theme
songs
Neil’s concert tour is well underway, and the shows have been fantastic!
Read what the newspapers think of each show on our
1998-99
Concert Reviews Page, which is constantly being updated. To hear what
other fans are saying about the tour and the new album, check out the
Letter to the
Editor section. And don’t miss the
Tour Dates Page
to see when Neil will be in your area!
Neil Diamond News 10/27/98
Its been
a busy week for Neil Diamond fans! Neil opened his concert tour last
Friday in Ft Worth, TX, and today marks the release of his latest CD,
The Movie Album - As Time Goes By! In addition, Neil will be appearing
on a number of television events this fall. Here is the latest schedule:
--- November 4th - ‘Making of the Movie Album’ Special, AMC Network (7:30
PM EST)
--- End of November - ‘The View’
--- November 25th - ‘Jay Leno’
Please check your local listings for the exact date and time in your area!
Diamond News 9/22/98
Call this
number to hear selections from Neil’s new album, As Time Goes By
and pre-purchase the album over the phone - 1 (800) 659-0210. This number
is reachable 9AM-5PM West-coast time, 12PM-8PM Eastern. Following is the
complete track listing for As Time Goes By, The Movie Album: As Time
Goes By, Secret Love, Unchained Melody, Can You Feel The Love Tonight, The
Way You Look Tonight, Love With The Proper Stranger, Puttin On The Ritz,
When You Wish Upon A Star, Windmills Of Your Mind, Ebb Tide, True Love, My
Heart Will Go On, The Look Of Love, In The Still Of The Night, Moon River,
Ruby, I've Got You Under My Skin/One For My Baby Medley, And I Love Her,
Can't Help Falling In Love, As Time Goes By (Reprise). The album will be
released on October 27th.
Additionally, a documentary on the making of the album will be premiering
on AMC (American Movie Channel) on November 4th, with a video tape and DVD
of the show complete with extra footage to be available in early December.
Diamond News 9/4/98
Tickets
for the following shows will go on sale Monday, September 14th. Fort Worth
(1st show), Moline, Milwaukee, Madison, Grand Rapids, Columbus, State
College, Buffalo, Albany, Toronto, and Tampa. Other on-sale dates TBA.
Diamond News 8/20/98
Tickets
for Neil’s New Years’ Eve and New Years’ Day shows will go on sale this
Saturday, August 22nd.
As we know, Neil’s new album (tentative release date October 27) will
feature songs from the movies. Here is a list of the songs that we know so
far, which will be on the album:
As Time Goes By
Unchained Melody
Secret Love
When You Wish Upon a Star
Can You Feel The Love Tonight
My Heart Will Go On
Puttin On the Ritz
Can’t Help Falling in Love
Windmills of Your Mind
Love with the Proper Stranger
Lastly, the Hamilton, ONT concert scheduled for November 13 has been
cancelled, and Neil will play Albany, NY instead on that night. The
Buffalo, NY originally scheduled for Nov 12 will be moved back one day, to
the 11th of November.
Diamond News 8/7/98
Diamondville has announced that Neil will NOT be doing the G&P Foundation
Benefit on October 12th. The original information that Neil
would play the benefit first came to light in an obscure press article
from the Houston Chronicle called to my attention last week. I placed a
phone call to the G&P Foundation on Tuesday afternoon, and was told that
Neil would be performing, and that the original date (October 5th)
had been changed to the 12th. After reading the Diamondville article
today, I called back G&P (at (212) 486-2575) and they had this statement:
”Unfortunately, Neil is no longer attending”.
Diamond News 8/5/98
BREAKING
NEWS – Neil to play benefit concert on October 12th in New York
City!! Yes, Neil will be appearing a benefit for the GNP Foundation at the
Sheraton on 7th Ave. The event is billed as a tribute to Kirk
Douglas and Milton Berle. Performing will be Neil, of course, as well as
George Benson, Celine Dion, Placido Domingo, Patti LaBelle, and Mary Tyler
Moore, among others. Tickets to this charity event are $1000 per seat, and
available by calling the GNP Foundation at (212) 486-2575. It is likely
that TV appearances may occur while Neil is in New York, so stay tuned for
the latest details!
Diamond News 7/6/98
More
information is now becoming available regarding Neil’s forthcoming album.
According to the latest
Post-Bugle
Intelligencer (PBI) from
Diamondville, the
album will be entitled As Time Goes By. As mentioned here previously, As
Time Goes By will be a collection of songs from motion pictures. In
addition, we now know that the orchestra will be conducted by the
legendary Elmer Berstein. Don’t miss the above mentioned
PBI for more
details.
Diamond News 6/2/98
Here is
the latest breaking news: It has been learned that Neil’s latest studio
project appears to center around film music from the movies. Tentative
plans include a fall release for the CD, which will be produced by classic
Neil producer Bob Gaudio
Diamond News 6/1/98
Dates for
Neil’s UK tour have been confirmed as follows:
2/20/99
Glasgow
2/23/99
Newcastle
2/27/99
Manchester
3/2/99
Sheffield
3/5-3/6
Birmingham
3/8-3/9
London
More dates in this leg of the tour
will follow........The US tour will likely begin the end of
October....hopefully, more information will be coming soon, but as of now
we can only publish the Las Vegas dates.
Diamond News 5/10/98
Neil to
play Las Vegas New Year’s Eve!!!!!! Here is the latest article from
The Las Vegas Review-Journal, Sunday May
10, 1998:
The ever-amazing Tom Jones is still exciting crowded houses at the
MGM Grand, and the dynamic singer got a deserved thrill of his own a few
nights back when James Brown and Neil Diamond dropped by, separately, to
check him out.
Jones greeted {Brown} from the stage with a shout of "I feel good!"
and Brown joyfully rasped back, "Do it, do it!" So gentleman Jones and
band obliged with an improvised version of "I Got You (I Feel Good)," then
had Diamond take a bow; thankfully minus a cover of "I Am I Said."
Brown and Diamond had never met and did so by handshake in front of
a delighted audience. "After the show we got back to the dressing room and
had a chat," reported Jones, calling it all "a great compliment."
The Tom Cat's latest run at the MGM ends Wednesday but he'll be back
June 11-24 and Aug. 13-26 for more showroom excitement. Brown's showroom
future remains uncertain while Diamond is booked for a pair of shows in
the MGM's Grand Garden arena, 3799 Las Vegas Blvd. South.
But forget about those Diamond dates listed here last week. He'll
perform on New Year's Eve and again Jan. 1, with ticket sales still many
weeks away. So start setting bucks aside as Diamond, who fetched a top
ticket of $200 when he packed the place in December 1996, will surely
command even higher prices because of the New Year's hook. ...
Diamond News 5/4/98
The
5/3/98 issue of The Las Vegas Review-Journal
claims that Neil will return to play Vegas this fall. Word of warning:
while this would seem a reliable source, Neil is known to change his plans
at the last minute. Please wait for an official announcement from
Diamondville before making any
firm plans. Here is the article:
Neil
Diamond set to return for two MGM concerts
By Michael Paskevich
Review-Journal
Add Neil Diamond to the list of big-name headliners who will be taking
the stage at the MGM Grand's arena this year.
Having thrilled sellout crowds, if not certain critics, with a grandiose
spectacle in December 1996, Diamond will return to the MGM Grand Garden,
3799 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 for in-the-round shows in
the 13,000-seat arena, a well-placed source said. Prices and the date
for ticket sales will be announced soon, so Diamond's legions of fans
will have to sit tight for now
Diamond News 5/1/98
It has
been announced on Diamondville
(5/1/98) that Neil will be touring this fall! While the tour is expected
to hit much of the US, no dates have been announced as of yet, and as we
have seen in the recent past, Neil’s plans are subject to change. Please
check back here and with Diamondville for the latest available
information.
Diamond News 4/4/98
Currently, there are NO TOUR DATES announced for 1998. Since planning for
a tour takes around five months, this indicates that there will be no Neil
Diamond concerts until at least September, 1998. Hopefully, some tour news
will be forthcoming shortly. Please check back to
The Neil Diamond
Home Page often, as news will be posted there the moment it is
available.
Diamond News 2/16/98
According
to Diamondville, Neil’s back is apparently recovering nicely, as he
recently played cards with the band, and appeared to be in no discomfort.
However, a tour anytime soon is extremely unlikely.
Two great Neil collectibles have recently come available..........limited
edition autographed plates and figurines being produced by
Gartlan USAFor details, check
their website or call them at: (609) 753-9229. Pre-orders are also being
taken on the web by Music Machine,
check their website or call (410) 356-4567.
Additionally, Celebrity Cellars has produced two unique wine bottles
featuring Neil - one with Neil’s photo etched into the bottle, and another
featuring a Neil Diamond label. These wines have proved somewhat tricky to
find - try contacting specialty stores in your area...good luck!
Diamond News 10/9/97
Tour
Postponed: Here is the text of Neil’s press release of October 9: Neil
Diamond’s proposed tour for December has been postponed. While it was
publicly announced that a tour was being planned, no dates were advertised
and no tickets were put on sale. Mr. Diamond recently sustained a back
injury (slipped disc) while helping a friend pick up a fallen motorcycle.
He will undergo a course of physical therapy recommended by his
physicians, hopefully avoiding surgery. Mr. Diamond regrets any
inconvenience caused to his fans and looks forward to touring once his
back is better.
Diamond News 10/5/97
The
latest news regarding Neil’s upcoming tour remains confusing.
Diamondville’s latest update warns of “bogus” information on the internet,
but all the tour dates on my page are confirmed by Sony, Neil’s own record
label. So, what are we to think? There is no doubt that these tour dates
were set up and planned by Neil. Nashville tickets were to have gone on
sale this Monday, October 6th, and this information was on the Nashville
Arena’s recording. So obviously, contracts were signed for Neil to perform
there on November 29th. It appears that there have been some last-minute
changes. Whether they are minor or major changes remains to be seen.
Please keep checking back here and on Diamondville for the latest news
when it becomes available.
Diamond News 7/27/97
-----
Here’s the latest: Neil will be out on tour in 16 US cities this winter.
The tour will begin on November 28th and run through December. More
details will be announced here as soon as they become available!
----- Diamond Drummer Ron Tutt in Memphis Benefit: This ad appeared in the
Memphis Commercial-Appeal Friday.
Elvis in Concert 97
Saturday, August 16, 7 PM
Mid-South Coliseum, Memphis, TN
Experience this dynamic entertainment event! A historic live concert
spectacular. See Elvis Presley perform via multi-media technology
accompanied live by the 55-piece Memphis Symphony Orchestra and the
greatest-ever gathering of more than 30 of his original touring concert
cast members, including: J.D. Sumner & The Stamps, The Jordanaires, The
Sweet Inspirations, The Imperials, Voice, Scotty Moore, D.J. Fontana,
James Burton, Glen D. Hardin, Jerry Scheff, RONNIE TUTT, and many more!
$50, $70, and $80 ($80 sold out) Contact Ticketmaster in Memphis at
901-525-1515 or www.ticketmaster.com A benefit for the Elvis Presley
Endowed Scholarship Fund at U. of M.
----- A new 3 CD Set of Neil's is to be released on August 12, 1997. It is
called "EARLY YEARS/JAZZ SINGER/BEAUTIFUL NOISE". And will consist of
those three Diamond CD’s in one master package. Sony Catalog #7464653712.
Diamond News 7/13/97
The
summer of ‘97 finds Neil busy writing music for a brand new album.
Recording is scheduled to begin sometime in November. We can only hope the
new album will apppear quickly afterward!
Diamond News 4/18/97
Neil will
be a presenter on the Country Music Awards show, Wednesday April 23rd on
NBC. The program starts at 8:00 PM --- Don’t miss Neil!!!! Editiors note:
Sorry!! He wasn't on, I don't know why, but he was listed by NBC as a
presenter on their website.
If you are on the East Coast how
about coming out to see
Mike
Livingston's Neil Diamond show Friday August 8th on the beautiful Lake
Winnapesauke (sic--ya can’t expect me to know how to spell that, can ya?)
in New Hampshire. The show is aboard a ship, the Mt Washington, which
cruises the lake. Mike plays tons of Neil, as well as a taste of other
60’s and 70’s tunes (but getting him to play a Beatles song is like
pulling teeth!). Call (603) 366-BOAT or
email Mike for details. Hope to
see ya there.
Diamond News 3/1/97
Readers
Digest has released a brand new Neil Diamond 2 CD live set. A number of
the songs featured here have never appeared on any Diamond live album,
such as Amazed and Confused, Summerlove, Say Maybe, Yesterday’s Songs, and
You Baby among others. The set is $ 49.95 and can be ordered from Readers
Digest by calling (800) 723-1241.
Diamond
News 12/2/96
Just
announced: Neil will be appearing on Late Night With David Letterman,
Friday, December 13, 1996. Also, Neil has recently changed the opening
number of his shows from Crunchy Granola Suite to A Matter of Love. Hope
it stays that way!!
Diamond
News 10/22/96
Just
announced: Neil will be appearing on the Tonight Show on Friday, November
1st!
Diamond News 10/9/96
Following
is the entire track listing for In My Lifetime, the forthcoming Diamond
Box set, due out October 29th:
DISC ONE
1. In My Lifetime (opening album version) 5:28
2. Hear Them Bells (live) 2:44
Recorded 1992 Minneapolis
Previously unissued
3. Blue Destiny* 2:18
Recorded 1958
Demo
4. A Million Miles Away* 2:46
Recorded 1958
Demo
5. Good Kind Of Lonely* 2:10
Recorded 1958
Demo
6. What Will I Do? (by Neil & Jack)* 1:59
Recorded 1960
From Duel single 508
7. At Night* 2:10
A-side of Columbia single 42809
Recorded 1963
8. Clown Town* 2:27
B-side of Columbia single 42809
Recorded May 1963
9. Flame* 1:36
Recorded 1964
Demo
10. Straw in The Wind* 1:35
Recorded 1964
Demo
11. Solitary Man* 2:31
Recorded 1966
From Bang single 519
12. Cherry, Cherry* 2:41
Recorded 1966
From Bang single 528
13. Cherry, Cherry (alternate version)* 2:54
Recorded 1966
Previously unreleased
14. I Got The Feelin' (Oh No, No)* 2:12
Recorded 1966
A-side of Bang single 536
15. I'm A Believer* 2:42
Recorded 1967
From the album "Just For You" (Bang 217)
16. The Boat That I Row* 2:24
Recorded 1967
B-side of Bang single 536
17. Kentucky Woman* 2:37
Recorded 1967
From Bang single 551
18. Girl, You'll Be A Woman Soon* 2:54
Recorded 1967 From Bang single 542
19. You Got To Me* 2:47
Recorded 1966
From Bang single 540
20. Thank The Lord For The Night Time* 3:00
Recorded 1967
From Bang single 547
21. Red, Red Wine* 2:39
Recorded 1967
From Bang single 556
22. Shilo* 3:23
Recorded 1967
From Bang single 561
23. Brooklyn Roads 3:37
Recorded 1968
From the album "Velvet Gloves & Spit" (Uni 73030)
24. And The Grass Won't Pay No Mind 3:32
Recorded 1969
From the album "Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show" (Uni 73047)
25. Sweet Caroline 3:21
Recorded 1969
From the album "Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show" (Uni 73047)
26. Holly Holy 4:30
Recorded 1969
From the album "Touching You...Touching Me" (Uni 73071)
27. Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show 3:33
Recorded 1969
From the album "Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show" (Uni 73047)
DISC TWO
1. Cracklin' Rosie 2:58
Recorded 1970
From the album "Tap Root Manuscript" (Uni 73092)
2. Done Too Soon 2:41
Recorded 1970
From the album "Tap Root Manuscript" (Uni 73092)
3. Morningside 4:17
Recorded 1972
From the album Moods (Uni 93136)
4. Soolaimon 4:11
Recorded 1970
From the album "Tap Root Manuscript" (Uni 73092)
5. He Ain't Heavy...He's My Brother 4:10
Recorded 1970
From the album "Tap Root Manuscript" (Uni 73092)
6. Crunchy Granola Suite 2:52
Recorded 1971
From the album "Stones" (Uni 93106)
7. Play Me 3:49
Recorded 1972
From the album "Moods" (Uni 93136)
8. I Am...I Said 3:33
Recorded 1971
From the album "Stones" (Uni 93106)
9. Song Sung Blue 3:12
Recorded 1972
From the album "Moods" (Uni 93136)
Jonathan Livingston Seagull Suite
10. Prologue 2:03
11. Lonely Looking Sky 1:33
12. Skybird 2:16
13. Dear Father 1:25
14. Be 3:14
Recorded 1973
From the album "Jonathan Livingston Seagull" (Columbia CK 32550)
15. I've Been This Way Before 3:46
Recorded 1974
From the album "Serenade" (Columbia CK 32919)
16. Longfellow Serenade 3:49
Recorded 1974
From the album "Serenade" (Columbia CK 32919)
17. Beautiful Noise (home demo) 1:39
Recorded 1976
Unreleased home cassette
18. Beautiful Noise 3:13
Recorded 1976
From the album "Beautiful Noise" (Columbia CK 33965)
19. If You Know What I Mean 3:40
Recorded 1976
From the album "Beautiful Noise" (Columbia CK 33965)
20. Dry Your Eyes (live) 3:47
Recorded 1976
From the soundtrack to the motion picture "The Last Waltz"
21. Desiree 3:17
Recorded 1977
From the album "I'm Glad You're Here With me Tonight" (Columbia 34990)
22. September Morn 3:51
Recorded 1979
From the album "September Morn" (Columbia CK 36121)
23. Forever In Blue Jeans 3:38
Recorded 1978
From the album "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" (Columbia CK 35625)
24. You Don't Bring Me Flowers (duet with Barbra Streisand) 3:15
Recorded 1978
From the album "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" (Columbia CK 35625)
DISC THREE
1. America 4:17
Recorded 1980
From the album "The Jazz Singer" (Columbia CK 67569)
2. Love On The Rocks 3:38
Recorded 1980
From the album "The Jazz Singer" (Columbia CK 67569)
3. Scotch On The Rocks 2:26
Recorded 1979
Demo
4. Hello Again 3:38
Recorded 1980
A-side of Capitol single 4960
5. Yesterday's Songs 2:50
Recorded 1981
From the album "On The Way To The Sky" (Columbia CK 37628)
6. Heaven Can Wait 4:50
Recorded 1982
Previously unissued
7. I'm Alive 3:43
Recorded 1982
From the album "Heartlight" (Columbia CK 38359)
8. Heartlight 4:24
Recorded 1982
From the album "Heartlight" (Columbia CK 38359)
9. Just Need To Love You More 3:51
Recorded 1991
Previously unissued track from "Lovescape" sessions
Produced by Don Was
10. You Make It Feel Like Christmas 3:56
Recorded 1984
From the album "Primitive" (Columbia CK 39199)
11. Falling 2:59
Recorded 1985
Previously unissued
12. Dancing To The Party Next Door 3:29
Recorded 1985
Previously unissued
13. The Story Of My Life 3:39
Recorded 1986
From the album "Headed For The Future" (Columbia CK 40368)
14. I'm Sayin' I'm Sorry 3:42
Recorded 1985
Previously unissued
15. If There Were No Dreams 3:14
Recorded 1991
From the album "Lovescape" (Columbia CK 48610)
16. Headed For The Future 4:05
Recorded 1986
From the album "Headed For The Future" (Columbia CK 40368)
17. Hooked On The Memory Of You 3:50
Recorded 1988
From the album "Best Years Of Our Lives" (Columbia CK 40525)
18. Angel Above My Head 3:50
Recorded 1985
Previously unissued
19. Everybody 3:46
Recorded 1995
From the album "Tennessee Moon" (Columbia CK 67382) 20. In My Lifetime
4:44
Recorded August 1996
Diamond
News 9/18/96
Here is a
short snippet from the October issue of ICE magazine, with some details
about the new Diamond song, In My Lifetime: ''In My Lifetime opens with a
new song, the box set's title track, which starts off with a collage
enlisting various sound bites from Diamond's career, including the voices
of Barbara Walters, Johnny Carson, and Walter Cronkite. In My Lifetime
also contains snippets of several of Diamond's bigger hits, and opens and
closes with a ticking watch, giving the song a definite timeless feel...''
Pick up a copy of ICE at your newstand and check out the rest of this
excellent and informative article.
Diamond
News 9/16/96
The
release date of In My Lifetime the forthcoming Neil Diamond Box Set, has
been changed to October 29th. The set will include a number of unreleased
Diamond tunes from as far back as 1958. These will include tunes such as
Blue Destiny written in April 1962, his first single Clown Town/At Night,
and Flame. Hear Them Bells, Neil's first song, will be represented by a
live version recorded in 1992. Other gems included will be Scotch on the
Rocks, an alternate, reggae-style version of Love on the Rocks and a
number of unreleased tunes from the mid-1980's unreleased The Story of My
Life LP. All of Neil's hits will also be included. Check this month's Ice
Magazine for an article on the box set.
Diamond
News 8/19/96
''In My
Lifetime'': The Neil Diamond Box Set: Yes, this is the new and final title
of Neil's box set. The latest information available is that the set will
be released on October 15th across Europe. While there is no confirmed USA
release date, most likely it will be released within a day of the European
release date, as was the case with ''Tennessee Moon.''
''In My
Lifetime'' is also rumored to be the title of a brand new Diamond song
which will appear on the set, penned by Neil and his son, Jesse. The set
will include all Neil's hits, as well as a number of unreleased songs, and
some alternate takes of Neil Diamond classics such as ''Cherry Cherry''
and ''Love on the Rocks.''
Diamond
News 8/14/96
Just
announced: Neil will be playing Las Vegas, NV on December 27, 28, and 29,
1996! According to Entertainment Wire : ''America's top touring solo
artist, Neil Diamond, will make his first Las Vegas concert appearance in
more than 20 years at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Dec. 27, 28 and
29.....Tickets go on sale Monday, August 19 at 10:00 AM through any MGM
Grand Box office outlet and all TickMaster locations .... Charge by phone,
call TicketMaster at (702) 474-4000. Or find out about room/concert ticket
packages, by calling the MGM Grand at 1 (800) 929-1111.''
The MGM
Grand Hotel's arena seats approximately 16,000 fans. Ticket prices are
$50, $100 and $200 Saturday and Sunday, and $50, $75 and $150 for the
Friday show.
Diamond
News 7/20/96
On
Thursday (July 18), Neil performed at an AIDS benefit in Los Angeles. He
sang for approximately 30 minutes, performing a number of his hits,
including America (the opening number), Sweet Caroline, and Everybody from
his new Tennessee Moon album. For the show's climax, Neil performed
Brother Love's Travelling Salvation Show during which Neil went down into
the audience and collected money for AIDS victims. He was assisted in the
collection by a number of folks dressed in specially made ''Brother
Love's'' shirts, who exhorted the crowd to contribute. Among the other
stars in attendence was Tom Hanks, who had the priviledge of introducing
Neil.
Diamond
News 7/1/96
In a
radio broadcast heard last week, Neil confirms that his next project will
be a box set, and will be released this holiday season! (Great excitement
here!). Neil is also featured in a full page ad in this week's Billboard
magazine, saluting him for his sold out performances and double platinum
album sales in Australia. Last week Neil played an excellent series of
shows in Pittsburgh and Cleveland, in Pittsburgh even pulling out one of
his greatest songs ever, Longfellow Serenade for the lucky folks on Monday
night. Myself, I considered throwing myself out the window after hearing
he had performed it while I was not there - but later declined to go
through with it, since I was unsure that a jump from the 2nd floor would
gaurantee a quick and painless end. to my luckless existence.
Diamond
News 6/23/96
Neil hit
the states this week for the first time since December of 1993 for three
shows at the Fleet Center in Boston. The biggest suprise was that fiddle
player Rob Hajacos has apparantly left the band. While many rumors are
flying around, there is no confirmation of any reason for this parting of
ways. The shows were, of course, incredible. Neil brings his show to
Pittsburgh and Cleveland later this week.
Diamond
News 5/25/96
This
month (and until June 4th) Neil continues his tour of the UK. I have
posted some
reviews of
Neil's May 18th show at Croke Park. Hope to have more reviews and
feedback available soon! Just 25 days 'til the first US date in
Boston---hope to see you all there!
Diamond
News 4/20/96
Some info
from a good friend of the Diamond Home Page, New Zealander Tom Penrose:
My wife and I have recently returned from Australia and attended Neil
Diamond's concert on 2 April - a "concert in the round" with a revolving
stage for both Diamond and his band. A full house under cover at the
Sydney Entertainment Centre. A full 2 hours 35 minutes on stage with no
intermission. Good value for money and across from us was a group who had
draped a banner "FOND" Friends Of Neil Diamond." Those in attendance were
a mixture of young and old and he gave it everything.
I will now
transcribe from a copy of the paper Sydney Morning Herald written by Bruce
Elder entitled....."Flawless Diamond King of the Singalongs."
Can a
concert be summed up in one line? In Neil Diamond's case it can: "Sweet
Caroline wwwhhooooaaaa good times never seemed so good."! There you have
it. Twelve thousand people, most of them on their feet and with huge
participatory grinsbrighteneing their faces, many of the rythmically
waving their hands, all singing along at the tops of their voices in one
of the most remarkable celebrations of the collective pop consciousness
ever to occur at the Entertainment Centre. A celebration of shared
memories, of barbeques and parties and an innocent belief that when you
sing along with Neil you are indeed remembering that "Good times never
seemd so good."
If folk
music is "the music of the people" then, on the basis of Diamond's
concert, the folk music of Australia in the '90s should include Solitary
Man, Cherry Cherry, Song Sung Blue, Holly Holly, Shilo, Cracklin'Rosie,
Play Me, I am...I Said and Soolaimon alongside Waltzing Matilda and Click
Go The Shears. All these songs seem to be part of the collective
consciousness of the nation. They are simply, three'chord, singalong,
goodtime songs. Everyone knows them - even if they don't want to. At the
slightest prompting and with a couple of beers under the belt, most people
in our vast suburban heartlands will burst into a few verses and choruses
of Neil Diamond's songs. Diamond knows this, and in a show lasting over
two hours, he offers nearly all his hits. There's no messing about. No
pretentiousness. Just a pile of hits, all charcterised by artless
simplicity, tumbling over themselves and inviting everyone to sing and
clap along. This was nearly a flawless performance. Diamond's voice is
still strong and distinctive. His 10-piece band is excellent and,
regardless of whether they like his material or not, they give the
impression that they're all having a great time. The structure of the
evening is a careful misture of the old and the new, the up-tempo and the
ballad. The actual concet configuration - a kind of Entertainment Centre
variation of theatre in the round - is masterful in the way is brings
everyone a little closer to the stage and allows the audience, who can
watch each other, to share the performance.
The
criticisms of the performance are few, but predictable. Familiarity is
what breeds contentment and the audience really shows a casual
indifference to material from Diamond's new album Tennessee Moon. Sure he
can promote it - but did he really have to sing seven songs froma rather
undistinguishes album? Equally, was it really necessary, when you have a
10-piece band, to introduce each member and give them a little solo? If
Diamond really wants to be daring, and truly win the hearts of his fans,
I'd recommend two possible changes. He could break the concert into two
parts. In the first half he could perform Hot August Night in its
entirety. Then he could return and perform it again. Alternatively, he
could just sing every one of his hits twice. "That was cracklin' Rosie.
Now, let's hear it again. Come everybody. Let's singalong." That's
basically what his fans want. Why not indulge them."............
I think
the review was a bit tough. I enjoyed many of his new Tennessee Moon songs
and purchased the CD.
While I
was in Surfers Paradise, Queensland several days after the Sydney group of
concerts, Diamond appeared in Brisbane, Queensland and the "Gold Coast
Weekend Bulletin" wrote..........."A new album and world tour has put pop
legend Neil Diamond firmly back in the music spotlight. Stunning
performances at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre have shown he still has
what it takes to remain at the top of the world entertainment
tree."..........
I will
endeavour to get the Auckland New Zealand review after the 27/28 April
concerts
Regards.....Tom Penrose
Diamond
News 4/14/96
Heres the
set list Neil has been performing in Australia, contributed by Ron Isaac:
From: Ron
Isaac
Subject: Melbourne concert songs: April '96
The
concerts (one more for me to attend tomorrow night) were the best "feel
good experiences" I've had for many a year. Once home I was unable to
sleep. I sat up and played T. Moon and other albums. I'm on holidays and
was able to sleep in the next day :-)
The order
of songs at the Neil Diamond concert Tuesday, April 9th and 11th 1996, at
Flinders Park Melbourne Australia. Two hours of N. D. Yeah!
Matter
of Love
Hello
Again. (ND commented about first coming to Melbourne 20 years ago for
our Moomba Festival.)
Can
Anybody Hear Me.
Solitary
Man.
Girl,
You'll Be a Woman Soon.
Cherry
Cherry.
Play me.
(Many screams of anticipated joy throughout the song from the "Ladies"
in the audience.)
Love on
the Rocks. [ On Thursday April 11th he included "Beautiful Noise" here.
]
Jungletime.
Brooklyn
Roads.
Tennessee Moon.
Talking
Optimist Blues. (Good Day Today)
One Good
Love.
No
Limit.
Everybody.
Marry
Me. (Introduced by Neil with these words: "Song writers are strange
people: When we are sad, we write about being happy. When we are happy
we write about being sad. When we are married we write about being
divorced and when we are divorced - pause - we write about being
married.)
Some woman called out "I'll Marry You Neil." Great laughter from the
Band, ND and the audience.
Forever
in Blue Jeans. (Most of audience up and dancing, etc. They kept standing
after it finished and ND repeated the last chorus again.)
Introduced all Band Members whilst they played a solo each amidst what
turned out to be The Last Picasso.
Song
Sung Blue.
Soolaimon.
Shilo.
You
Don't Bring Me Flowers. (Duet with Linda Press. The KISS at the song's
conclusion was in fading darkness.) Audience applauded for a LONG time
after this gem.
Holly
Holy.
I am ...
I said.
America.
(Showing the Australian flag together with the U.S.of A. flag, both
lowered from above the stage for the last chorus of the song.)
-> Concert conclusion ;-) Standing ovation and bulk applause and
chanting of MORE MORE MORE ... brought him back and he finished the
unforgetable show with:
Sweet
Caroline. (Audience up and dancing, waving arms etc for the remainder of
the show.)
Cracklin'
Rosie.
Brother
Love's Traveling Salvation Show.
Keep
smilen
Ron Isaac
Diamond
News 3/28/96
A news
item appeared in Wellington , New Zealand newspaper this morning 28 March,
from AAP quote......'American singer Neil Diamond presented with a host of
gold and platinum records by his record company in Sydney yesterday, said
he "felt like an Aussie at the Academy Awards.' More than 24 years since
the record-breaking Hot August Night album, Diamond admits to being
constantly amazed by his Australian successes. He has proved his penchant
for Australia by launching his Tennessee Moon world tour in what is his
biggest per capita market in the world. According to tour promoters Paul
Dainty, a staggering one-in-three Australian households own a copy of Hot
August Night, the singer's most successful record to date. 'I never
expected anything like this [success in Australia] anywhere in the world,'
Diamond said yesterday. 'Australia's been a lucky place for us.
Australia
is often first to push a new Diamond recording to top chart positions.
Yesterday, Sony Music officials presented Diamond with 17 gold and
platinum recording awards at a news conference. Diamond said he was
pleased that yesterday's Oscar successes had put the spotlight firmly on
Australia. "The focus of the world is down here as far as films are
concerned, music is concerned. There's all kinds of new groups coming out,
so don't be surprised if Australia becomes the focus of everybody else in
the world.' Diamond drew up to Sydney's Opera House in a black cadillac
flanked by 10 Harley Davidson-riding motor cyclists to charm a 60 strong
press corps. His fan club was also out in droves on the steps of the
Sydney Opera House forecourt to photograph and try to talk to their hero.
Diamond said there was still immense pressure to live up to the phenomally
successful Hot August Night world tour and album. But he tried not to
worry about it 'and beyond that I keep my eye on the exits during the show
and hope for the best.'......... --by Tom Penrose
Back to Diamond
Home Page
to go to Amazon and see Neil's
brand new video for 
As
previously reported, Neil's new album will be released on November 8th.
However, it now appears the CD will be called 12 Songs,(containing
13 songs) rather than self-titled. Here is the track listing for the
eagerly awaited collection.
March 2,
2005
On
August 25th, Neil appeared on the 
Neil
appeared at the NYU graduation ceremonies on May 15, in New York City's
Washington Square Park. An Alumni of NYU, Neil wrote a brand new song
Forever NYU just for this occasion, and sang it to the crowd of appox
5,000. "I was just writing something fun for the kids to go out with,"
Diamond said. 
