About the song
“Sweet Caroline” is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of music lovers around the world. Written and performed by the legendary American singer-songwriter Neil Diamond, the song was released in May 1969 as a single with the title “Sweet Caroline (Good Times Never Seemed So Good)”. The song’s origins are shrouded in mystery, with Diamond providing different explanations over the years. In a 2007 interview, he revealed that the inspiration for the song was John F. Kennedy’s daughter, Caroline, who was just 11 years old at the time of its release. Diamond even sang the song for her at her 50th birthday celebration in 2007.
However, in a 2011 interview, Diamond claimed that a magazine cover photo of Caroline as a young child on a horse with her parents sparked the idea for the song. He also stated that the song was about his then-wife Marcia, but he needed a three-syllable name to fit the melody. Regardless of its true inspiration, “Sweet Caroline” has become an iconic song that has stood the test of time.
The song’s performance was nothing short of phenomenal. It reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was certified gold by the RIAA for sales of one million singles. It also topped the US Easy Listening chart and reached No. 8 on the UK singles chart. The song’s enduring popularity was evident in 2021, when it re-entered the UK Singles Chart 50 years after its initial release, following its use by England supporters during Euro 2020.
Critics have praised “Sweet Caroline” for its exceptional production, vocal workout, and Diamond’s emotive delivery. The song has been certified gold and has sold over two million digital downloads in the United States. With its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and nostalgic charm, “Sweet Caroline” remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day.
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