About the song
A Timeless Ballad of Love and Simplicity: Unveiling Neil Diamond’s “Forever in Blue Jeans”
Released in 1979, “Forever in Blue Jeans” is a song by legendary singer-songwriter Neil Diamond, co-written with his guitarist Richard Bennett. The upbeat track quickly captured the hearts of listeners, reaching #20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and #2 on the Easy Listening chart. But “Forever in Blue Jeans” transcends mere chart success; it offers a poignant message wrapped in a catchy melody.
Diamond himself described the song as a celebration of “the simple things are really the important things.” This theme resonates throughout the lyrics, which prioritize love and companionship over material wealth. The iconic title, “Forever in Blue Jeans,” becomes more than just a reference to clothing; it symbolizes a life free from the constraints of chasing riches and fame.
Critics praised the song’s positive message and infectious energy. Cash Box magazine described it as “a pleasant tribute to ‘doing OK’ without the glitter of wealth and fame,” highlighting its optimistic and grounded tone. Diamond’s vocals, described as “gruff” and “appealing,” add a layer of authenticity to the song’s message.
Interestingly, “Forever in Blue Jeans” has also had a cultural impact beyond music. The song’s title inadvertently fueled the ongoing popularity of blue jeans. Cotton Incorporated noted a surge in women planning to buy blue jeans after the song’s release, highlighting its unexpected influence on fashion trends. The song’s appeal even extended to advertising, with Will Ferrell famously impersonating Diamond in a commercial for The Gap, further solidifying the link between the song and denim.
“Forever in Blue Jeans” is more than just a catchy tune from the late 70s. It’s a timeless ballad that reminds us of the enduring value of love, simplicity, and appreciating the things that truly matter. This song continues to resonate with listeners across generations, offering a refreshing alternative to the pursuit of material wealth and a reminder to cherish the simple joys in life.
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Lyrics
Money talks
But it don’t sing and dance and it don’t walk
And long as I can have you here with me
I’d much rather be forever in blue jeans
Honey’s sweet
But it ain’t nothin’ next to baby’s treat
And if you’d pardon me, I’d like to say
We’d do okay forever in blue jeans
Maybe tonight
Maybe tonight, by the fire
All alone, you and I
Nothing around but the sound
Of my heart and your sighs
Money talks
But it can’t sing and dance and it can’t walk
And long as I can have you here with me
I’d much rather be forever in blue jeans, babe
And honey’s sweet
But it ain’t nothin’ next to baby’s treat
And if you’ll pardon me, I’d like to say
We’d do okay, forever in blue jeans
Maybe tonight
Maybe tonight, by the fire
All alone, you and I
Nothing around but the sound
Of my heart and your sighs
Money talks
But it don’t sing and dance and it don’t walk
And long as I can have you here with me
I’d much rather be forever in blue jeans
And if you’d pardon me, I’d like to say
We’d do okay forever in blue jeans, babe
And long as I can have you here with me
I’d much rather be forever in blue jeans, babe