About the song
“Sweet Caroline,” penned and performed by Neil Diamond, remains an iconic anthem that has resonated across generations since its release in May 1969. The song, initially titled “Sweet Caroline (Good Times Never Seemed So Good),” was crafted with meticulous arrangement by Charles Calello and recorded at American Sound Studio in Memphis, Tennessee.
Neil Diamond’s inspiration for “Sweet Caroline” has been a topic of discussion over the years. Initially, he attributed the song to his admiration for Caroline Kennedy, daughter of President John F. Kennedy, whom Diamond saw in a magazine photo riding a horse with her parents. This image sparked Diamond’s creativity, leading to the creation of the song’s melody and lyrics. He further solidified this connection by performing “Sweet Caroline” for Caroline Kennedy at her 50th birthday celebration in 2007, marking a personal tribute to his muse.
However, in later years, Diamond also mentioned that the song could have been about his then-wife, Marcia, but Caroline’s name fit better into the song’s melodic structure, which required a three-syllable name.
Upon its release, “Sweet Caroline” swiftly climbed the charts, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a gold certification from the RIAA for selling over one million singles. It also made an impact on the US Easy Listening chart, reaching No. 3 and initiating a string of successful entries for Diamond.
The song’s popularity transcended its initial release, finding new audiences through various performances and media appearances by Neil Diamond. In the UK, it charted twice, initially reaching No. 8 in 1971 and then re-entering at No. 20 in 2021 following its enthusiastic adoption by England supporters during Euro 2020.
Critically acclaimed for its warmth and infectious melody, “Sweet Caroline” has been praised for Diamond’s exceptional vocal performance and the song’s enduring appeal. Cash Box lauded its “warm glow” and occasional surges of strength, while Billboard noted its “exceptional production” and the emotional impact of its lyrics.
Over the decades, “Sweet Caroline” has maintained its status as a beloved classic, with ongoing popularity evidenced by digital downloads and its cultural impact across different generations. Its ability to evoke nostalgia and joy ensures that Neil Diamond’s masterpiece continues to be celebrated and cherished by fans worldwide.
Video
Lyrics
Where it began
I can’t begin to know when
But then I know it’s growin’ strong
Was in the spring
And spring became the summer
Who’d have believe you’d come along?
Hands
Touchin’ hands
Reachin’ out
Touching me, touchin’ you
Sweet Caroline
Good times never seemed so good
I’ve been inclined
To believe they never would
But now I look at the night
And it don’t seem so lonely
We fill it up with only two
And when I hurt
Hurtin’ runs off my shoulders
How can I hurt when holdin’ you?
Warm
Touchin’ warm
Reachin’ out
Touchin’ me, touchin’ you
Sweet Caroline
Good times never seemed so good
I’ve been inclined
To believe they never would, oh, no, no
Sweet Caroline
Good times never seemed so good
Sweet Caroline
I believe they never could
Sweet Caroline
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