Amidst the buzz surrounding the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in the UK, many were left curious as to why “Sweet Caroline” emerged as the unofficial anthem for the occasion, with Rod Stewart delivering a spirited rendition during the televised party outside Buckingham Palace on June 4, 2022. After all, Neil Diamond, the song’s creator, is American, and Rod Stewart boasts an extensive catalog of his own hits.
The straightforward explanation lies in the fact that “Sweet Caroline” clinched the top spot when Radio 2 listeners voted for a Jubilee song. Royal enthusiasts were encouraged to join in singing it at street parties on June 5. As for Sir Rod’s involvement, the BBC extended the invitation for him to perform the song. But why wasn’t Neil Diamond himself flown out for the occasion? The reason is Neil Diamond’s battle with Parkinson’s Disease, which has limited his public appearances in recent years.
In a rare recent public appearance, Neil Diamond graced the Broadway opening of “A Beautiful Noise,” a musical based on his life and music, where he treated the audience to a heartfelt rendition of “Sweet Caroline.” Hailing from Brooklyn, Diamond’s journey from a humble upbringing to becoming a renowned songwriter and performer is nothing short of remarkable. His songwriting prowess has left an indelible mark on the music industry, with hits like “I’m a Believer” (The Monkees) and “Red, Red Wine” (UB40) among his impressive repertoire.
Diamond’s own recordings, including chart-toppers like “Cracklin’ Rosie,” “Song Sung Blue,” and “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers,” have solidified his status as one of the best-selling artists of all time, with over 130 million records sold worldwide. His influence extends far and wide, with numerous artists covering his songs over the years. Even “Beautiful Noise,” the title track from his 1976 album, remains a beloved classic that showcases Diamond’s exceptional talent.
Despite his retirement from touring due to health reasons, Diamond’s legacy continues to resonate, with his iconic anthem “Sweet Caroline” earning a spot in the Library of Congress in 2019 for its cultural, historic, and aesthetic significance. As fans cherish his timeless music, Diamond’s impact on the world of music remains as enduring as ever.
