About the song
A Timeless Classic: Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline”
“Sweet Caroline” is a song that transcends generations. Released in 1969 by American singer Neil Diamond, it has become a beloved anthem sung by crowds at sporting events, belted out at karaoke nights, and enjoyed by music lovers of all ages. But the story behind the song is almost as captivating as the melody itself.
Neil Diamond has offered a few different explanations for the inspiration behind “Sweet Caroline.” In one instance, he claimed it was written about John F. Kennedy’s daughter, Caroline, who was just 11 years old at the time. He supposedly saw a photo of her as a child and felt compelled to write a song that captured her innocent spirit. However, in later years, Diamond offered a different story. He said the song was actually about his wife, Marcia, but “Marcia” didn’t fit the melody as well as “Caroline.”
Despite the mystery surrounding its inspiration, there’s no doubt about the song’s success. It reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and quickly became a staple of Diamond’s live performances. Interestingly, the song experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Fans of the England national football team adopted it as their anthem after a match in 2005, and it has become a fixture at their games ever since. This renewed popularity even led to a surge in sales after the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, with Diamond donating his royalties to charities supporting the victims.
“Sweet Caroline” is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a song that evokes feelings of nostalgia, joy, and togetherness. Whether it’s sung at a stadium full of cheering fans or in a quiet living room, it has the power to connect people and create lasting memories. In 2019, the song’s cultural significance was recognized by the Library of Congress, who selected it for preservation in the National Recording Registry.
So, the next time you hear “Sweet Caroline,” take a moment to appreciate its rich history and the enduring magic it holds.
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