Song Sung New: Neil Diamond Unveils Symphonic Album “Classic Diamonds”
Classic Diamonds: That’s how Neil Diamond is billing his new collection of recordings with The London Symphony Orchestra. Due on November 20 from Capitol Records, Classic Diamonds features the singer-songwriter’s new recordings of 13 beloved hits. Unlike many previous artists’ releases with symphony orchestras, Neil’s collection features newly-recorded vocals as well as the orchestrations.
Recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London as well as Diamond’s own California studio, the album has been produced by Walter Afanasieff and arranged by Afanasieff and conductor-arranger William Ross. The songs on Classic Diamonds span the Bang era (“I’m a Believer”), the Uni years (“Song Sung Blue,” “Holly Holy,” “Play Me,” “I Am…I Said,” “Sweet Caroline”), and his four decades at Columbia Records (“Beautiful Noise,” “September Morn,” “I’ve Been This Way Before,” the solo “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers”) as well as three songs from the 1980 multi-platinum Capitol soundtrack to The Jazz Singer (“America,” “Love on the Rocks,” “Hello Again”).
The first single from Classic Diamonds, available now for streaming everywhere or viewing on YouTube, is the new reinvention of Diamond, Burt Bacharach, and Carole Bayer Sager’s “Heartlight.” Originally recorded for the 1982 Columbia album of the same name and inspired by Steven Spielberg’s E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, the heartwarming ballad was a top five hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and a chart-topper on the Adult Contemporary survey.
Capitol Records chairman and CEO Steve Barnett comments in the press materials, “Neil Diamond is simply one of the most important vocalists and songwriters in the history of popular music, and this majestic new album shines a beautiful spotlight on some of his greatest works.” While Diamond was forced to leave the road as a result of his Parkinson’s diagnosis, he’s forged ahead writing, recording, and making special musical appearances including a humorous, COVID-appropriate PSA for “hands, washing hands” to the tune of “Sweet Caroline.”
Classic Diamonds will be released by Capitol Records on November 20 on CD, vinyl, and streaming/digital formats. You’ll find the track listing and pre-order links below.
Neil Diamond with The London Symphony Orchestra, Classic Diamonds (Capitol, 2020)
CD: Amazon U.S. / Amazon U.K. / Amazon Canada
2LP: Amazon U.S. / Amazon U.K. / Amazon Canada
- Beautiful Noise
- Hello Again
- I Am…I Said
- I’m a Believer
- Song Sung Blue
- September Morn
- America
- Holly Holy
- You Don’t Bring Me Flowers
- Play Me
- Love on the Rocks
- Heartlight
- I’ve Been This Way Before
- Sweet Caroline
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18 thoughts on “Song Sung New: Neil Diamond Unveils Symphonic Album “Classic Diamonds””
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This is a sure fire purchase for me! So good to hear Neil Diamond is still recording. We saw his concerts every time he was in Philly. He always put on a great show. A true top entertainer for all time, his music reaches so many age groups.
Amazing artist . He is like a religion
Absolutely true, Billy. When will Neil Diamond be fully recognised as possibly the greatest combined musical composer, lyricist, recording artist/vocalist and concert entertainer of all time?
Thanks Errol for your response to my comment. I certainly look forward to getting my hands on this latest Neil Diamond LSO version on November 20. Still a great shame one of my favourites, Cracklin’ Rosie, is not included.
The greatest with the greatest backup band of all times. Please tell your band that they are fabulous!
So true, so true.
I have seen ND a dozen times, the very best singer songwriter on the planet. All the songs on the new album are absolute Diamond classics. It is so good to hear Neils voice again. Its been a long time and couldn’t come at a more appropriate time.. Cannot wait to hear all the songs. Hears hoping Neil is coping well with his illness, it certainly sounds like he is.
One more time Bro. Neil=God bless you!
Fíjate que bonita noticia, yo también me alegro mucho por el mejor cantante del mundo , Neil Diamond si , te conozco muy bien desde 1980, que Dios te bendiga y te cuide por siempre, te quiero mucho ,tengo muchos ,cassetes,CD y videos , y tu película, El Cantor de Jazz y Juan Salvador Gaviota tuyos ,que bonito es verte y escuchar tus ,todo tuyo ,besos y cuídate mucho chaval, que te quiero mucho mi chico guapo y maravilloso, desde ibiza España 18/10/20 ,
Quien supiera que Neil fuera famoso en España. Desgraciadamente, su voz no es como antes.
Neil Diamond has given me the best gift of lifelong memories and relationship with my Father. My father who graduated with Neil diamond at Erasmus High School in Brooklyn has played his records since I was child. As soon as I hear any of his songs my whole childhood and my father is connected to everyone. Our favorite is Hell Yeah!! We cannot wait for this album and we hope you are healthy and doing well
Dear Neil diamond. Get well soon. From Michelle and Ladys both xxxx ❤️💕😂🤩😎😁😍🐶🐵🐕
Love Neil Diamond but WHY is one of his biggest hits Cracklin’ Rosie not included in this line-up?
Next? LSO should really consider putting their wonderful orchestra behind Jim Reeves. Look at the huge success of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Elvis Presley!
Yes, Gerry. Cracklin Rose is a simply brilliant piece of work. It sure should have been included and there are probably a few others…maybe many others.
Could not agree more. I was fortunate to hear Neil Live at the Greek Theatre in LA when I was young. It made me a fan forever.
Have only heard Sweet Caroline so far. Loved the new arrangement which had a trace of Dry Your Eyes within it. I’ve been a dedicated Neil Diamond fan since the late `60’s. His songs have inspired and comforted me at various stages in my life. Been fortunate enough to have seen Neil live on three occasions and each time was unique. I haven’t yet bought the special edition with the book which was issued in lieu of his Australian trip. This was largely due to the difficulty in obtaining a copy in mint condition. I read a recent interview with Neil and there was a hint that there were enough son g s to warrant a second album!
Love the New release!!! I fell in love and made love with my husband to Neil’s songs over the years. He is in our prayers and we wish every wonderful thing for him ❤️
Listening to “Heartlight” sent a warm feeling through me. I’ve always loved his music and voice (noise), and so looking forward to having this album in my hands and heart. Be well, Neil, we wish you the best.