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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, 1999

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Vol 61: September 4, 1999

This is my first letter to the editor. Have been drawn to this site

since I found it last September. I have been a Neil Diamond fan since I

was 13 or so. I saw him in the "Jazz Singer" . Loved all the music in

it. My mom listened to him around the house but I really loved the

music. Grew up and still liked him, but I really didn't buy anyone's

music and never thought about actually seeing him live. My husband

would buy CD's for me and his mom, who is also a big fan. About 5 or 6

years ago we talked about actually going to see the man if he ever got

close to Washington State.

Well, last September, as I was driving down the road and listening

to his Lifetime album in my van, I got really emotional and almost cried

at the possible thought of ever seeing him live in concert. I rushed

home and told my husband to find something about him on the interenet.

I wasn't a surfer, so really had no clue what to do. It was too easy.

Found this site immediately and discovered he was to be in Las Vegas on

New Year's Eve and Night! I secretly hoped my husband would tell me to

go! Well, he didn't, but my web surfing sister found some cheap airline

tickets, and we found out the concert prices and all I had to do was

convince my husband. I asked that if his mom could go, could I? He

said as if he could stop me! I know there are masses of fans out there

who follow the man and it seems as if money is no object to them, but

this was a huge deal for me. $500 was alot to spend especially at that

time of year. It was worth it to me. And my husband was okay with it

which made it all the more wonderful. My mother-in-law and I were able

to see him for the first time together and it was the BEST time of my

life! I thought that would get it out of my system, which it did the

complete opposite. I can't follow him around, but I can check up on him

now that I know how.

I will be going to Spokane on Aug. 17 (it is only a 2 hour drive

which can be done after work) and then my mother and mother-in-law are

accompanying me to Seattle's concerts the 22 and 23. I am sooooo

excited, I can hardly breathe. I envy all people out there who have

seen him all these years and who continue to get to see him. I feel

these may be my last chances ever and I hope they remain with me

forever. I read the message boards and these letters and know there are

so many out there who love his music as I do. I definitely can't say

any one loves it more. It means so many different things to so many

people. But, Neil is genuine and caring and you get that all when you

see him on stage. I wish I had been closer, and my seats still aren't

going to be closer. To shake his hand and meet him in person would be

the ultimate, but I will be satisified with the fact that I will have

gotten to see him 4 times in my lifetime. To any fan out there who has

not yet seen him, GO if you ever get the chance. He is something to

behold in a live concert. What everyone says, is true and more! Good

luck to all of you and congratulations to those who have seen him so

many. I think I was born too late.

DM

I went to the concert on both nights. He was absolutely fantastic!! The

Salt Lake Tribune paper review said he doesn't know how to dance, but that is

not how I or the audience of 12,000 or so felt! The second concert I sat in

the 1st row. I have never been that close to him before. I loved it! He

said he would come back to Salt Lake City after the Olympics, but I hope he

comes back sooner than that!

The Idaho Center was jam packed the night Neil Diamond performed! Thursday August 28, 1999. Young and old alike showed up to see and hear this music legend, and what a performance he gave! Nearly two and a half hours of non stop on stage performance! Neil Diamond (and his first rate band) gave us what we wanted and left us wanting more! The man STILL has it...what a voice! (I fell in love with his music and his voice the first time I ever heard one of his songs... back in 1968. My dream (way back then) was to someday get to see him in concert. He has gray hair now and is showing his age...but I didn't care, his songs transported me back to a time I didn't have gray hair or age lines on my face...and it felt Oh so GOOD! )

Sharon Ketchum

Boise, Idaho

What an appropriate coincident.

A hot August night. Neil Diamond in concert. It doesn't get any better that

this.

Neil diamond is truly the consummate performer. His show is tight, well

rehearsed and professional. With in this musical stage show, Neil reaches

out and pulls the audience in, making them part of the experience. You

literally become part of the show.

Neil Diamond's music is some of the most popular sounds in the world. That

goes without saying. All you have to do is take a look around at the

thousands of fans singing - word for word - every song - all of which are

hits. This must make a concert very difficult if a slight "lyric flub"

takes place. Even so, such minor flukes are very much forgiven by the

audience .

He's good. He's really good.

Neil Diamond finally came to our town Saturday, August 28th, and performed to

a packed arena of over 11,000. This is the 9th concert I have attended, and

have never been to one with such a high energy level! He is my age, and my

husband and I were completely exhausted before the concert was over, which

was almost 2 and 1/2 hours long. (or short!) The Montana crowd was so very

receptive, and he seemed to really appreciate it. I don't know how he does

it night after night singing the same songs and making it feel for us like it

is his first time. What can top a Neil Diamond concert? Only another Neil

Diamond concert!

It was so great finally not having to travel at least for one full day to be

able to see him perform. I hope he "got the message" that we here in Montana

and the surrounding area also love him and his music and that he will return

someday soon. The acoustics in our arena are not the best, and I think it

has been difficult to get him to perform here because of that, but we are so

thankful that he did. He would sound great anywhere no matter what.

I usually am so let down after a concert because it is all over, but I left

this one feeling very up and with a good attitude, but now I am wishing I

could attend another very soon again. I guess I just never get enough. I

hope he keeps on performing for a long time because he just gets better and

better each time I see him. His voice was so full and rich and never cracked

once even on his songs from his new Movie Album as I have read in several

reviews. I could not believe how wonderful he sounded, still! I hope this

isn't too long. I could go on and on, but guess I had better not and just

say that I am ready for concert #10! Pat in Billings!

Long time Neil Diamond fans, my husband, daughter, son-in-law, and I all saw Neil at the concert on August 17, 1999. He was AMAZING! There were about 12,000 fans at the sold out concert, all going nuts! The lighting, sound system, everything, was PERFECT! Neil was so great. He is one of those rare performers whose voice is as good live as it is on his albums. The crowd was very responsive, though I have to admit the section I was sitting in (only 14 rows up, almost dead center) was not as responsive as the section directly across the way, so he spent more of his time facing that section than ours. We had some real fuddy-duddies in our section but I wasn't one of them. I could barely stay off my feet and certainly couldn't sit still, rocking to the music throughout the concert. His band is great too, as was the voice of the woman he sings the "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" duet with. She's not Barbra Streisand, but she has a dynamite voice! He was awesome. We'll be there the next time he comes to Spokane, whenever it is!

BTW, we drove from Sandpoint - an hour and a half away - to see him on a weeknight and would have driven twice as far!

============================

Gina A. Emory

Hi Joe! I'm Elaine Rogoza. I e-mailed you over a month ago to tell you

what Neil has meant to me over the years...well, I went to the concert

in Vancouver last night (I couldn't e-mail you last night 'cause I was

in too much awe and very tired from all the excitement!!) and it was

worth the $64.00 (Canadian dollars) for the ticket! The show was to

start at 8:00 pm. It started at 8:15, and for the next two hours, he

belonged to Vancouver! I have always wanted to see him in concert, and

last night, my dream came true! My friend and I took the skytrain from

Surrey (about 30 minutes on the skytrain), and we couldn't believe it!

The skytrain was full of people of all ages holding onto their tickets

for dear life and breaking out in several of Neil's classics every now

and then! I started singing Forever In Blue Jeans, and I had a woman

that looked like she was in her 60's joining me!(Going home on the

skytrain was even better! All we heard at each stop was "Neil Diamond

Rocks!" The Police even had to shut down a block when the concert was

over to let everyone across the street to the skytrain!) When the lights

dimmed and Neil came on stage, I couldn't contain myself! When he

started with Beautiful Noise, the whole place went nuts! I've never seen

Vancouver rock like that since I saw Deep Purple 23 years ago! I loved

the way he involved all of us with his songs. I can't decide which was

better, Forever in Blue Jeans (I almost creamed my panties!) or Sweet

Caroline which he did a second time and had us do the "bum bum bum" and

"so good, so good, so good". I am very partial to acoustic guitars and

melted when Neil brought out his guitar! I just wish that I could have

afforded to buy some kind of souvenir. All I have to remind me are the

ticket stub, skytrain tickets and the memories that Neil left us with.

I'll always cherish those. My only regret is that I couldn't meet him in

person and that the concert didn't last forever! This was a very special

night for me because it was the 6th anniversary of my kidney transplant,

which is even more special than my 40th birthday (last year). Neil is

The Best!! I'm really sorry that it was raining the whole time. Now

he'll understand why we tend to have webbed feet here! Tell Neil that he

made Vancouver forget the foul weather for a couple of hours and rocked

us like we'd never been rocked before! Too bad that a couple of older

women that were sitting behind us couldn't understand our enthusiasm

when the whole place was on their feet, dancing and rocking to the music

and they tried to tell us to sit down!! Good luck to them! I was just

too excited to sit. Hardly anyone was sitting!! I burned my fingers on

my lighter when he sang Shilo and Love On The Rocks!! All of GM Place

was rocking and singing with Neil for most of the time. Thank you Neil

for the best night of my life!! We'll never forget the memories you left

us! As I'm writing this, the news update is reviewing the concert. They

feel the same way I do! Keep it up Neil! Next time, I want to meet you!!

For your age, you sure know how to move! Nice buns, too! With much love,

Elaine Rogoza, Surrey, B.C., Canada

Hi Joe!

Oh! Neil was so wonderful at the San Jose Arena on Sunday night - I took my

best girlfriend who had always wanted to see Neil live and she was rockin'!

She absolutely loved the show - Neil was in the best voice that I have heard

in awhile! Thank God he has given Neil such an awsome talent and that when

so many other artists are only temporary, Neil is timeless! I like so many

others would love to meet Neil one day if only just to say thank you with

love from a girl who has felt very blessed to have been a Neil Diamond fan

all of my 39 years. God bless you Neil always!!

Hi Joe!

Saw the man last night in Seattle (my first time in 21 years) and I must say that he ROCKED! He hasn't lost enthusiasm or energy at all. Play Me and Shilo have been two of my most favorite songs since my first musical memories. My dad was a DJ when I was young, and he would make sure to play my requests. In my teen years I was in to harder rock (like Led Zep) and didn't listen much to Neil anymore, but for about the last 10 years I've gone back to my roots and listen to Neil....... A LOT! Through all of lifes hardships I know that I can always put my headphones on and escape with Neil.

May he and his band tour forever!

Deb

Neil sang from a revolving stage and was accompanied by light show that was

astounding by itself. Neil had every one, kids just discovering him, the

baby boomers who loved him since he started, and the seniors who lived with

our high volume music of the 60's & 70's, clapping along with the beat of the

music. I think most participated in the sing-a-longs. There were several

standing ovations, especially when he sang "Coming to America." Dr. Bother

Love's Show also had every one on the feet.

After two encores, Neil finally left the stage. Everyone was still standing

and applauding as he left.

There were several comments made as to Neil's age. The one that sticks in my

mind was from a lady answering a comment about his age. She heard someone say

he looks like a senior citizen, and came back with, "He may be a senior

citizen, but look how he fills out those pants."

Needless to say a wonderful time was had by all.

Hi Joe,

I saw Neil in concert on Aug 13 in Anchorage, AK. He blew me away. What an

entertainer he is. I now understand why they call him Mr. Showmanship. His

voice is like a fine wine, he gets better with age. His band was great too.

The stage and lighting was superb. The date that I was with at the concert

made it a point to say that he had never seen such a great concert before

and was very pleased with the show. Since the concert I have purchase the box

set "In My Lifetime,""The Movie

Album" and the video "The Jazz Singer". I also appreciate the fact that Neil

Diamond Supports the Charity for Abused Children on the sales of charity

items sold at his concert. What a Generous man he is. I have been a fan of

his since I was a young girl growing up in Kentucky in the 60's and 70's. And

I am even a bigger fan now at the age of 43. I just hope that other fans of

Neil Diamond realize how bless we have been to be part of this entertainers

gift and talent for writing, singing and producing such wonderful music. I am

very grateful to be part of the generation that was part of his career. I

hope to hear more from him in the years to come.

-Helen Blankenship

Here is something unusual...

Imagine - a rigorous odyssey around the world by motorscooter, solo. It happened! And this one was partly inspired by the works of Neil and the band! These also helped to sustain it in its darkest hours and celebrate it in its brightest times. Neil was there - all the way! And now the story has been published!

IN THE LONG RUN: A Hopeful World Odyssey is the true and candid story of my two-year journey around the world on a motorscooter named Melawend to promote friendship and communication. The journey was full of adventure and romance and those foreseen and unforeseen challenges and dangers. More important, it became a profound education through many inward and outward discoveries. Though this story is offered primarily as entertainment, I believe readers will find many good things in it that may help readers to improve their lives. And they may gain more insight into the inspiration that is Neil!

When you get a chance, Joe, check out the odyssey website!

IN THE LONG RUN: A Hopeful World Odyssey

http://www.islandnet.com/~odyssey1/

All the best to you!

Tom Smith

Just wanted to say that Neil's show at the San Jose

Arena was one of his best ever. They are all

wonderful, but this one seemed to incorporate so much

more material. I don't recall ever hearing so much

from the Shilo album, though he didn't do Kentucky

Woman. The only thing I can say I was disappointed in,

was not being able to get any photographs. We had

floor seats and it would have been a special thing to

get a few. They really didn't enforce the no camera

thing, but since I didn't want to take the chance, I

left mine at home.

Hopefully there will be another tour in a couple

years, but if not, it's been a wonderful ride!

Marianne

mzoricak@yahoo.com

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Vol 60: August 8, 1999

Tracy.

CMD

Caryn

Harry Schneider

Diane Butson

AND OUR HOMES!!!!!
Sincerely Christine and Michael

so loyally for so many years.
Sherry

time in reading... Neil Fan, Marilyn Rice, Whitestone, N.Y.

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Vol 59: July 17, 1999

BNC

As said, keep up the great work! Neilove, Karin

Thomasville, NC 27360

vickie@nebi.com

Mendy Brinkman

mother...finally getting her dream.

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Vol 58: May 26, 1999

A great message board:
Joe, thanks for listing all the links on your great website. Because of your generosity, I have, indeed, found a "friendly" board. It's called Talk At the Greek. The folks there answer questions timely, are kind and courteous, even to us new fans who don't know much, and actually concentrate on discussing Neil's music, concerts, cds, etc. There is none of that silliness and negativity that I've found at other "friendly" boards. Again, thank you for sharing that link with me. I hope other Homepage fans will give it a look. I'm sure you will like what you see. Hugs...she

Hi Joe

I went to the Neil Diamond concert on Friday night with my 34 years old

daughter. That was the first time she had seen him live, although she had

experienced the music as a child. I left a little deflated after the

concert which has never happened at the end of all the concerts I have seen

before. I found his choice of music not to be the "get up and go" type of

music as Neil has done in the past. Most of his music was his older songs

and three from the Movie Album, which is a little slow. The audience did

not get up on their feet as they did last time. I don't think I sat down

very much when he was here last time and it was a fun concert, but this

time...........

He did "You don't bring me flowers" again with Linda. I wish he had done a

different duet perhaps. I guess we all think that he can go on as a younger

man for ever, even though he is my age and very gorgeous.

I would like to hear other comments.

Pam Neil

Hi there Joe,

Below is my review of the concert on Saturday night 22/5/99.

There was a buzz of excitement in the crowd of people waiting to

enter the auditorium for the concert on Saturday night. The age

range of the audience was incredible from young children to people

in their 70's and 80's.

We went into the auditorium and had magnificent seats, we were in

the fourth row in the first elevation of the Entertainment centre.

When the lights dimmed the crowd cheered and we could see Neil

coming in.

The first hour and a quarter of the show he sang all his old songs

and he had the crowd on their feet dancing, singing cheering all

night. He then went on to sing songs from his new album which

also had the crowd enthralled.

King Ericsson always seems to enjoy himself at the concerts. He

was there getting the crowd to clap and sing along while Neil was

singing. It is incredible to realise that the band have been with him

for 23 years.

All in all it was a magnificant concert I think thoroughly enjoyed by

myself, my husband and girlfriend and we all would definitely see

him again if he comes out here.

Again thoroughly enjoyed it and keep up the excellent work on the

website.

Debra Rettie

email: debram@bullwinkle.econ.usyd.edu.au

Hi,

My name is Kelly Clark, and I am 20 years old, and a huge Neil Diamond fan. I went to see him in concert for the first time on 15th of May in Brisbane, Australia. I went with my dad, who has seen Neil in concert 10 times. We are originally from England, and my dad saw Neil the first time he ever played there. We had a really great night, and brilliant seats. It is my 21st birthday in one week's time, and I am hoping to get the "MOVIE ALBUM". I think Neil sings the songs better than the originals. I have just discovered your website, and it is hard to believe Neil is 58 - he has aged well and has the energy of someone much younger. I am still on a high from his concert a week later, and I am hoping to attend a lot more in the future. At present I am at University, but I will be finished in July 2000, and I am hoping to do a tour of America at that time. If anyone knows if Neil is performing then, could you please let me know? My e-mail address is:

kclark@mpx.com.au

Thanks,

Kelly.

My husband and I have just arrived back home after seeing Neil perform

at his first Sydney concert on this tour. Today's date is 18th May 1999,

and we are fortunate enough to being seeing him once more at his last

Sydney gig on 25th May 1999. The show tonight was fantastic, and Neil

as usual was amazing - the audience went wild, especially when he sang

his old songs from Hot August Night. The band and backing were superb ,

making it a truly memorable night. We have had our tickets for 5 months

and can't believe that tonight finally arrived, and now its over for

another week, and then, I wonder when he will return. We saw him in

concert in 1992, twice in 1996, and now twice in 1999. Neil, I can't

wait for your next tour - where will you be performing New Year's Eve

1999/2000. Anne-Sydney, Australia.

I just have to write, I saw my first Neil Diamond concert in Portland, OR. in

the early 70's. (first husband) We left the kids with my folks, drove to

Portland ("Holly Holy" was the attraction), we got the LP and played it on

the kid's "suitcase" type record player until it broke. We went to the

concert, BOUGHT THE TICKETS AT THE DOOR! It was so great! Moved from Kelso,

WA to Seattle area (second marriage) in 1976. Have not missed a concert, all

these years. Remember when Jesse was born, (belonged to the fan club, talked

about the earthquake in California, still have all the letters/clippings).

Remember when Neil had back surgery right after a concert. We have tickets

for this concert, in August. Oddly, it seems that this is the first time he

has been in this area during the "nice" weather. Usually it is raining. My

husband is in a wheelchair, so we get the tickets that are available, and are

so glad they make the seats accessible. Just wanted to say "thanks," for

over 25 years of wonderful concerts. If he looks upward, I am the one (yeah,

the ONE), dancing to the music.

Hope he plays "Heartlight" this time, don't smoke, brought a lighter back

from Hawaii last time, just for the next concert, and it wasn't sung. That

was "Tennessee Moon." Am lighter shopping now for August!

Thanks for letting me spout off!

Kathy Kolke (was Kathy/Robert Mesneak)

e-mail: kkolke@aol.com

Hi, my name is liz and I've been a fan of Neil' for about 20 years. I'm proud ro say that because it just shows how enduring his music is. My fondest memory is going to a concert at Wembley, and sitting in the front row. When Neil was singing 'Love on the Rocks' within 4 feet of me I was so carried away by the music and the wonderful atmosphere that I slid off the seat. Talk about embarrassing, but I'd like to think that Neil maybe noticed(we all have our dreams). Anyway I just found all this wonderful site and wanted to say,Thanks Neil for your music and your voice,and long may you sing for us all. Liz

Let the record state that Neil Diamond has many young fans -- Probably

more young fans than he realizes! I am 25 years old and without a

doubt, he is my favorite singer, songwriter and performer. My sister,

24 and my two cousins, 24 and 22 are as enamored with him as I am. I

have grown up listening to his music and I'm sure my children will do

the same! I do not generally idolize people, but Neil Diamond truly is

one of my favorite people. I want him to know how wide his appeal is.

There are many hip young people out there who think he is the greatest!!

Michele in Washington, DC

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Vol 57: May 13, 1999

Hi Joe,

I have been reading the comments from the many people attending

concerts and am struck by the fact that fans everywhere get that special

feeling while being connected to a great performer for a two hour

period. Sometimes I hate to have a song end because

I realize we are one step closer to the end. Neil is indeed a world

class diamond for everyone to enjoy. Best wishes to all those fans who's

lives are enriched by his music

Conrad

Would appreciate some imfor on the song Come Dry Your Eyes, friends and I

can not come to an agreement on what it means. Please help me interpet it.

Thank you --Snooki Parks [snooki53@rconnect.com]

Hi Joe:

Thought you might enjoy a good laugh. I will start by telling you that

Neil and I are approximately the same age. I have loved his music forever

it seems. Well my office staff here at Williams College are constantly

making fun of me and the length I would go to attend one of Neil's

concerts. Today they told me that in years to come if they hear of an old

lady that escaped from a nursing home and was found at some arena where

Neil Diamond was singing, they would know immediately who this old lady

was. Then it was suggested that they put sound sensors on my ankles so I

could be easily traced. But, if I am that OLD so will be Neil and if he is

still singing, WOW!! Now is that the treatment a Neil Diamond fan should

get??

Nancy

To: Leo Williams, Jr., Yes we ND fans get that expression from non-Neiliers alot. Don't let it discourage you. There are a lot of us out there. I'm always amazed when I attend a concert at how many young folks are there. So hang tough dude!

To: Steven P. Re: Stones. I heard ND say in an interview once that Stones stood for "things that hurt people." He then joked that his next album may be called "sticks." If you want more info, email me at ladyshe@juno.com.

Thanks Joe for the good job. I love this site! she

I have been a Neil Diamond fan since his first album! I have almost

everything he ever recorded, from the 60's to the latest The Movie

Album. There's not another one like him, Elvis Presley came close...

Whenever I hear Neil, floods of memories in my life come rushing

forth..Most good memories, some not so good. My children grew up

listening right along with me, now they are grown and remain Neil

Diamond fans also..

He and I are the same age group, and I will always remain one of his

most devoted fans..He still sounds great!! He's aging very well, and

his voice still gives me goosebumps...

I am new on the net, and just this morning found your website. I can't

tell you how thrilled I was when I typed in Neil Diamond and found him!

Now I'll pull it up whenever I get online..Thanks, for being there!!

A Devoted Fan

Jo Ann Welborn

I was fortunate eough to be introduced to Neil diamond when I was 13 years

of age with Hot August Night. I am now 38 years old. My father and I call

him the 13th apostle as he is one of the best composers of music and words.

Many a time my father and I have used Neil diamond to calm our lives down.

We have been to his concerts the last 2 times here in Australia. We make

sure that we see at least to concerts per tour.We are actually going next

month to sydney to see him agaion in concert. For me I will be able to go

again but for my dad this will be the last time he will be able to travel to

see him. My dad has made frame in his house with all Neil's photos he takes

great pride in these. When dad does finally leave i will get his collection

and I will carry on for Neil Diamond

Vicki Pannowitz

lodgetech@nobby.net.au

Dear Friend Joe

Finally the most desire days of my life arrived, the days that my dreams come true, the days that I went to England to saw the 5 Shows of Neil Diamond in Wembley. Saw him alive and the for the first time in my life it was a great emotion.

Saw the greatest pop singer in Stage, applaud him it was with any doubt a great pleasure to me.

Everything was lovely, everything was perfect. A bit more of 2 hours that pass so quickly. And Neil always fabulous in his way of sing all the songs as he knows.

Always a really "Gentleman". Sober, discreet, impeccable. He had a really art how to move and act in stage. With any boubt Neil is Neil. A really Sir of the World's Pop Music. I loved all the shows. He is marvellous. He is fantastic. He is the GREATEST.

A lovely voice in spite of his 58 years, still marvellous and fabulous.

I go back to do everything again to see him in Stage. When he return to London who knows?

I can give the Botlle of Oporto Wine of harvest of 1941 with a little letter to a personal security of Neil Diamond in the Arena that had a photo of Neil Diamond dangling on this neck.

I had afraid that I can't go into the Arena with the bottle, so on Tuesday 9th of March when I was the Arena, and it was earlier to the show begin, I spoke with one of the security about the gift that I have to Neil. He told me that I can take de bottle to the Arena, here aren't problems, and with the bottle I can join a little message with my name and address, so I did that.

In fact I had no problems when on Saturday 13th of March, (it was on this day that I gave the bottle to Neil Diamond) I go into the Arena with it when I was there I ask to spoke with one of the security of Neil (there are others security's but probably there are only for the Arena). So I spoke with him and gave the bottle. So I hope that the bottle was gave do Neil Diamond himself.

The portuguese fan and much friend of Neil Diamond.

Best regards its friend Maria.

Maria Manuela Freitas

Lisbon-Portugal

manuelafreitas@mail.telepac.pt

In reply to Steve who asked about "Stones";

I heard Neil sing it in concert in June, 1993 in

Providence, Rhode Island. It was absolutely

beautiful. I haven't heard of him singing it since that tour.

Joanne

In 1975 I moved to St. Louis, Missouri with my husband and four daughters,

all teenagers. It was a very difficult time for our family, as my husband

traveled a lot and I had the four girls to raise, mostly on my own. My

husband suffered severe pain from a back injury, as well as depression,and

though he never missed a day of work or a trip he had to make he became very

addicted to pain medication and eventually to alcohol, trying to find relief

from his pain and depression. Though he finally had surgery for his back

problem and seemed to be on his way back to a pain free life, he could not

rid himself of the need for drugs and alcohol. During this period, my

daughters and I suffered a lot of stress, anxiety, and emotional and

physical pain. When things got to be too much for me to handle, with the

stress and worry of living with an alcoholic (who I loved with all my heart)

and four teenage daughters (who were very deeply affected by their fathers'

condition), I would get in my 1975 bronze-colored Thunderbird, put my "Hot

August Night" tape in the 8 track player, get on Highway 270 and drive for

about an hour with the volume turned up loud and just drift away into

another dimension where all I could see or hear was the wonderful face and

beautiful voice of Mr. Neil Diamond. I have no idea what would have become

of me if I had not been able to escape into my private little world with

Neil Diamond's music once in awhile. He saved me from losing my mind and I

will be forever indebted to him and his music for my salvation during those

extremely difficult times. I recall Neil Diamond's 1974 quote "The human

voice is the most important instrument at our disposal, yet it is one of the

most difficult to understand or define. You either hear it, or you don't. It

either moves you, or it leaves you cold...it is more than just a sound...it

is the soul itself." His voice and his music move my soul! I literally

wore out three "Hot August Night" 8 track tapes, I played them so much. In

the end, my husband won his battle with alcohol and drugs but lost his

battle with depression and took his own life in 1982. Since 1984 I have

been living in Tucson, Arizona with my youngest daughter and I love it. I

work for The University of Arizona College of Medicine in the Division of

Neurosurgery and will probably retire in a couple of years. Three of my

daughters still live in St. Louis and have families of their own. To this

day they all still remember standing in line in St. Louis once a long time

ago, trying to get tickets for me for one of Neil's concerts, but they were

unsuccessful. So though I have been a loyal fan forever, I have never been

fortunate enough to attend one of his concerts or get an autograph. But, I

will be one of the fortunate ones this year, as I intend to be in the

audience when Neil Diamond appears at the America West Arena in Phoenix,

Arizona on August 2, 1999. It will be the high point of my life and I will

be the proudest and most thankful person there. To Neil Diamond I would

like to say, "Thank You", for being there when I needed you, though you

didn't know it, and for having such a wonderful, soothing voice and such

beautiful songs and music for me to listen to. You are the greatest!

A fan of yours forever,

Norma D. Wheeler

645 W. Orange Grove Road, #1021

Tucson, Arizona 85704

hallo, again, hallo

the story of the frog-king, n.d.-version:

It was a girl, not a princess, in brooklyn, new york, she was playing

whith her ball, and her ball is falling down in the Hudsun-river. She

was weeping over her ball, and suddenly a frog came out of the waves

of the river: "I bring you back your ball, if you take me home to you"

, he said. "Yes, I do," said the girl and the frog bring her the ball

back und hopped home with her.

They came home and the frog said: "Let me sit by your table and eat wi

th you."

The girl take the frog at the table and let him eat with."

After eating the frog said: "Let me sleep with you, in your bed."

But the girl will get angry and push the frog against the wall.

It was a big pop and suddenly a nice young boy was sitting on her bed

with his guitar and sung for her: "Here them bells, the story of my lo

ve".

Viola

www.viola.ecker@bmwf.gv.at

I'm not the biggest Neil Diamond fan, but I recently saw the movie Lost and

Found with David Spade, where he did a pretty good performance, lip syncing a

Neil Diamond song. I actually liked the song and my question is what is the

name of the song he did? I guess if you haven't seen the movie you wouldn't

know, but I can't seem to find it anywhere on the Internet and I would like

to get it. I thought you might have a clue since you have a webpage and

all. So if you would happen to know it, please let me know. If not, that is

cool also. Thank you very much.

HYP213@aol.com

Bad luck for all who missed it!

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Email a Letter to the Editor

Vol 56: April 15, 1999

Hi Joe--
I haven't seen the new Broadway musical "Fosse," so I don't know the details, but on the upcoming CD of the show, "Crunchy Granola Suite" is listed as one of the songs. I don't know who performs it or if it's just an instrumental,  but I thought that might interest some of the Diamond fans out there.
Regards,
Mark

Hi,

We (my wife and I) are from Belgium (Mechelen - a distance of about 250

km from Köln) and are two great fans of Neil Diamond. We have about all

his cd's. Only the two first one we do not posses.

In 1970 when I began to listen and to appeciate the music, I thougth "I

must choose a group or a singer". And finally at the end of 1970 I heard

"Sweet Caroline" of Neil Diamond and I have decided, "That's it". Since

then I am a fan of Neil Diamond and it was my heart's desire to go in my

life to a concert.

A lot of months later my sister "Rita" (she is 3 years younger) has

decided to become a member of "Friends of Diamond". I too have read the

news papers that you have sent. In 1976 when I got married, I missed

your newspapers. Then in 1977, I have decided to become a member of the

"Friend of Diamonds". Now in 1999 my wife and I have the first time the

possiblity to go to a concert in the Kölnarena in Köln. It was a

fantastic concert with all the old songs. Neil, the Band and the public

were fantastic too. I'll never forget this. We have a place in block

204, row 6, place 12. The platform was placed in the middle of the

Arena. That's a fantastic idea.

It's very regrettable that we might take no pictures. Therefore I will

ask you, when you possess any picture of Neil Diamond of his concert to

send it to me.

My name is August Marivoet, my membership number is 01584 and I am 46

years old.

A lot of greatings from my wife Marina and myself

Hi

We would just like to add our voices to all Neil Diamond fans every

where. We attended the concert in Birmingham in early March and it was

brilliant, this is the third tour my wife has attended and my second.

We cannot wait for the next tour in England but we may try to attend in

america or canada next year to coincide with our plaaned holiday.

Keep up the good work.

Keith & Pauline Burrows

I 'm a 28 year old New Zealand woman who has been listening to Neil Diamond since birth - perhaps even in the womb! My parents are really into Neil Diamond and have fond memories of his Hot August Night concert at Western Springs, Auckland, New Zealand in the 70s. My 92 year old grandfather was a musician in his earlier years. When my parents and their friends were into Neil Diamond in the 70s he said "He'll never come to anything"! I guess even grandfathers can be wrong sometimes. Love your site! Keep up the good work-

Michelle Henderson
Invercargill, New Zealand

Our local radio station asked a question this morning about Neil Diamond. The question was: "Neil Diamond was the first to do this in 1968". Do what??? I've checked out various Neil web sites and couldn't find an answer. I'd appreciate whatever response(s) you may have!!! Thanks!!! MushMon@aol.com

I am a huge Neil Diamond fan, Ive been to 7 shows (it may not seem like much but Im only 30 so give me a break) have many of his CDs and can just get lost in his lyrics. Recently however my receiver component on my stereo needed to be replaced and found one I liked, it was Dolby digital ready and cost on this was about a thousand dollars. The sales guy told me to feel free to bring in a CD of my choice, so I did and of course it was a Neil Diamond CD. I went back to the store the next night with CD in hand and the salesman put it in for me and the entire staff was so rude to me and told me my music was crap and that I'm only 30 and that's not the kinda music a person my age should be listen to. Then they had the guts after that to ask me for the sale.........well as you guess by now they sold me nothing, but there competitor was more than helpful. Is it just me or do other younger fans ever run it to this?

Leo Williams Jr
lawIIphoto@aol.com P. S. Neil.......you sound great on the new stereo!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hallo,
I have no own E-mail and so I like to find contacts to Neil Diamond-Fans, but with a post-adress, for writing back for changing informations by post-letter.
My post-adress is:
Viola Ecker,
Gudrunstrasse 55-103/50/12
A-1100 Wien (Vienna), Austria (Österreich)

Hi Joe
I've recently "found" this site again, and for the first time read some of the letters to you. Reading the letters from the fans who have seen Neil's concerts overseas brought tears to my eyes. He is such an incredible performer, and it is wonderful to hear how he touches young and old, and every nationality. Of course, it also makes me eager to see him again this summer! Wonderful job on the site, I'll be visiting regularly!
Paula

I just received `In My Lifetime' and it is just amazing. It really really

shows all the stages: from influences to the future. The out-takes are just

fantastic. I own so much of his stuff that I thought it would be a waste,

but it is wonderful.

Question: does anyone know the story behind `Stones?' I'd love to know why

he doesn't perform it or even claim it.

Thanks,  Steve Peifer

Well, I just had to write and share this. I went to one of these Oldie Concerts on Sat. night. It had Percy Sledge, The Turtles, Chris Montez and some other ones. Well let me tell you something I have always thought Neil to be a great performer but seeing these guys only makes me feel more strongly how great he is.. These guys really need to give it up. Percy could not hit any of his notes and I don't think he knew the words to his songs either. The rest of them were not much better you could not hardly hear the singers all you could hear was the band. The price of these tickets were about the same as for a Neil concert but I sure felt like I did not get my moneys worth . lWhen I leave a Neil concert I feel like I got every bit my moneys worth plus more. Neil does his show with such class and his band is so good I just can't believe the difference. They didn't look like they enjoyed themselves as much as Neil does on stage. Leslie

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Vol 55: March 27, 1999

Hi there,

Some weeks ago I was looking for some concert reviews on the internet because I had tickets to see both of Neil's concerts in Rotterdam. Since I hadn't seen Neil in concert before, and I cannot consider myself a real fan, I wanted to know what to expect.

I must say I have liked his music very much over the last 20 years and I've got a lot of his CD's. I was very excited to hear he was coming to Rotterdam and I was able to see him after all those years. I decided to go to both concerts, since I wasn't sure if he would be coming back to The Netherlands ever again. I wasn't disappointed! Both nights were concerts to remember, and I've had the time of my life! I really loved the concerts, and I think I may speak for the seventhousand people who were there each night too. Everything was perfect; Neil, the band, the stage, the atmosphere, and the audience.

Hello anywhere...

Iīm a (younger) fan of Neil Diamond from Germany.Iīm 30 years old, excuse my bad englisch, I`ll try to find the right words to describe the feelings while this concert.

On March 25th the "Dortmunder Westfalenhalle" had a touch of magic in the air. When the time became to 8.00 p.m. you could "smell" the suspence.

Neil came at 8.15 pm. on stage. He got standing ovations before he could begin with `beautyful noise`. It was nearly unable for me and my friends to sit down, because the show was indescribable. We held the singular banner in this hall (we worked on it weeks before) and, I still canīt believe, Neil saw it and he gave us the feeling, we were specially welcome.

He sang all his Songs you can find in your tour reviews page and he did it perfect. The voice of this man is singular in the world and his emanation is one you couldnīt find twice.

May be there was a difference to other shows, when he performed `Sweet Caroline`. The audience wanted to sing it again and again and.... So he did it for four times and the people sang with him,... wow, wow, wow, you know...!

Well, thatīs German, the "older" people want to swing and clap, then itīs ok for them.

For us it was an unforgettable night, and while tipping this I canīt still believe that itīs over. There is a little bit of sadness in me, but Iīm hopeful for seeing Neil again in Germany.

I think he will leave Germany with the conviction that we love him and that we want him to come back.

P.S: Your Site ist the best N.D. Site in the world! I visit every day because itīs just great and always up-to-date.

Bye and greetings from Spenge/Germany

Thorsten Dorn

th.dorn@01019freenet.de

Hello Joe,

I'm still on cloud nine after yesterday's ND concert here in Munich, and I felt I should tell you about my impressions. Although I have been an ND fan for about twelve years, it was the very first concert I ever saw (in 1989, I was still in school and couldn't afford a ticket for the concert, and that has been bugging me ever since).
Prior to the concert, I met with Hermann Groeneveld (who is in contact with you, as far as I know), who happens to work for the same company as I, and a very nice couple who had also registered on your attendance page (which, by the way, is a great idea!). We had a lot of fun for a few hours, chatting about Neil and how we became fans etc., and we went to the concert together, though we had separate seats. The funny thing is that those three people had paid a little more for their tickets than I had, but I ended up in a much better seat - in the front row! That was because the row I had a ticket for didn't exist (they must have made some changes in the seating arrangement, I suppose), so they put me right in front of the stage! Well, what can I say - I felt like I had won in the lottery!
The concert was really incredible. I got up when Neil started to sing some "rock" songs, and I only got down again for the quiet songs. Today, my hands hurt because I couldn't stop clapping, and I'm hoarse and tired and still a little exhausted, but still ecstatic because of this truly incredible experience. Neil is such a great entertainer, and yet he is one of the nicest, most humble persons I have ever seen. I could really feel how much fun he had and how much pleasure it gave him to entertain the audience, and how happy he was when everybody sang along and clapped their hands. I have to admit that there were some really boring people in the audience as well, but that happens in all concerts, I guess. Well, I didn't really care - the main thing is that I really had a ball. The revolving stage was a great idea, even though sometimes Neil became completely invisible when he was at the other side, but I think it was much better than a "normal" stage. And it was great to watc!
h the musicians (who, by the way, did a great job as well) go by and see every one of them once in a while.
I think this was the best concert I ever saw. I haven't seen many, but I can't imagine that it could possibly be better. And Neil's voice and his aura are just incredible. He's like a good bottle of wine - the older he gets, the better he is!
Hermann and I will be keeping our eyes open for concert reviews and newspaper articles in the next few days, and I will try to translate them for you as soon as I can.

Thanks for maintaining such a great page!

Regards
Claudia Raab

Hello Joe,

I've seen the concert of neil in Rotterdam at 17 and 18th march.
He's starting with "Beautiful noise" and the whole evening were beautifull
noises.
He is still rocking.. The crowed were very exciting the whole evening.
In Holland we do always a sound called OLE OLE OLE. 10 years ago when we do
it for the first time Neil did not know whats happening. Is it good or is
it bad. But know he knows that it is very good. I was there with a friend
of mine. For here it was the very first time that she came to a concert of
Neil. Well afterwards i asked how she found the evening. Well she was very
exciting and bouth some of his records and is now also a Fan.
Those two nights in Rotterdam were very hot in a cold country....
Greetings.
Margot.

Hi Joe, hi everybody,
here is a letter from germany. I saw Neil Diamond yesterday in Stuttgart and
it was a beautiful Noise. The last time he was been here in Germany, I think
it was 1989 ?? Too long ago.
It was a great evening.
Many compliments to his musicians.
Please excuse my english, but I think you understand.
Greetings from Germany
Sabine

Just wanted to let you know that I have been a fan of Neils for twenty
five years. my middle son Mike just brought me to Switzerland to visit
him from California this week. he said we were taking a surprise trip
up to Germany. Got up there yesterday the 24th of march. We walked
around the city during the day then after dinner he had a real surprise
for me we walked into this hall and into a concert by none other than
my favorite singer in all the world. Ive seen him in concert ten times
and this was by far the best, his voice is better than ever and he had
the crowd going crazy including this old grandma and her reluctant fan
son. I bet Neil has never had a fan travel 8000 miles to see him in
concert before. it is something I'll remember forever. just thought
I'd let you know he is still the greatest.

Sincerely,
Ann Riley
Grass Valley California

hello,

i visited the Rotterdam concert on thursday last week with a couple of friends. Although i am a great fan and i find Neil a great performer i was disappointed. He almost only sang very old songs. And the limit was that Neil imitated Elvis presley and Frank Sinatra with the enormous amount of songs he wrote himself he should not do this.

regards Gilberto.

Hi,

Just wanted to drop you a line to say thanks. When Neil played Nashville
back in Dec 1998 I had put a note on line on your web page asking any fans to
write me. Well I got a note from a woman asking if I had ever seen him before.
We wrote back and forth and got to know each other. We finally met last month
and fell in love with each other. She is the love of my life and we have Neil
Diamond to thank for it. If it hadn't been for your web page we would have
never met.
Thanks again,
James

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Email a Letter to the Editor

Vol 54: March 20, 1999

Hallo Joe,

Here a letter from the Netherlands. I have seen your page on Internet and I
thought lets send a letter from the other side of the world.
Last night there was a concert from Neil in Rotterdam in Holland.
The last time he has been in Holland was, I think, in 1989.
So we were ready to see him again. It had been too long.
It was crowded in AHOY Rotterdam. There was a good ambiance.
And finally at 20.20 he was coming. The people began to applause and yell.
When he started with Beautiful Noise the people get excited.
In Holland it is normal that when we are very very enthousiastic the crowd
start to sing \" OLE, OLE,OLE
But I think it is not so good understood by the American people. Anyway
with Cracklin Rose we started to sing our Ole song and I had the impression
that Neil didn\'t know exactly how to deal with it.

After 2,5 hours the show was ended. It had gone to quickly.
It was a beatiful evening.

I know my english is not that good, but I hope you\'ll understand me.

Greetings from Holland
Sandra van der Toorn
a.vandertoorn@worldonline.nl

Dear Joe,

After reading the mail you've posted on your very fine web tribute to Neil Diamond, I felt I had to share with you and your visitors the joy and exhilaration that comes from watching my three sons, ages 15, 13 and 6, singing and dancing to the most beautiful noise ever. I am in my forties now, and I have been a fan of the one and only ND since I was a high school student -- and I remember well his appearance at the Winter Garden during my first year of college. I played his music in my dorm room, and on my car's stereo, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who has invested in Neil Diamond's music on vinyl, tape AND CD. I have seen him in concert eight times over the past thirty years, and I have taken my entire family -- mother, wife and three sons -- to his last two shows in the NY-NJ metro area. The best part of this ongoing relationship my family has had with Mr. Diamond came in January of 1993 -- my third son, Jason, was born to the strains of "Holly Holy" playing on the delivery room stereo, and we were at the next concert less than a year later. Naturally, we told one of his assistants about Jason being brought into the world to the man's music. While we were unable to seehim personally at that concert, two days later he appeared on a New Yorktalk show and told the story of the baby born to "Holly Holy" earlier thatyear and the parents who had come to tell him about it two nights before! We also got a lovely personal note from him a few weeks later, on stationerythat had a frog with a crown on its head, wishing us all the best with ourthen eleven month old boy. That boy, now age six, can recognize every Neil Diamond song he hears after only eight bars -- as can his two olderbrothers-- and Jason also does an air guitar accompaniment to "Cherry,Cherry" that would do Reinie Press proud. The music of Neil Diamond, and the passion with which he sings it, has become a very important part of my life,and the life of my entire family -- and for the happiness and smiles he has brought to us all, I'd like to thank Mr. Diamond once more, through yourwebpage. My appreciation to you for making that possible.
---Henry W. Hocherman

I went to see Neil Diamond last night (11 March) at the Wembley Arena, London, after a gap of nearly 22 years. The last (and until last night, only) time I saw him live was in the open air at Woburn Abbey in 1997! What a show! Nearly all my personal favourites were in his repertoire. He started with "Beautiful Noise", sang beautifully for 2 hours and 15 minutes, with only one short break for the band to do a solo of "Sabre Dance", andended with "Heartlight". Wow! The light show was terrific, too, and the "In The Round" format made it possible even for those at the top back corner(me!) to see all the time. I can't wait for him to come back again. What ashowman, one of the truly great superstars.

Isobel Climas

Hi!
Mary Worth here from Buxton, Derbyshire, England.
Last night I went to see Neil in concert at the Sheffield Arena. it was the
fourth time that I have seen him.
He was in fantastic form and a packed audience had a wonderful night.
I am 50and went to the concert with my daughter who is 26 . She has grown
up surrounded by Neil Diamond music and went to her first Neil concert when
she was 9. We both danced in the aisles all night.!!
I wish that I had been able to get more tickets to some of the other
venues.
Mary.Worth@btinternet.com

During a snowy (on the east coast) rainy (on the west coast) day, my
cousin gave me this challenge: to create a letter using as many Neil
Diamond songs as possible. Listed below are my results. A few friends
have liked it and asked that I send it around. Hope you enjoy it! /she


"DEAR FATHER"

"I AM...I SAID" "SURVIVING THE LIFE" while finding "THE LONG WAY HOME" to
my
"BROOKLYN ROADS" via the 'MEMPHIS STREETS" that are "LONG GONE" from the
"GLORY ROAD" of "NEW ORLEANS" and trips throughout "AMERICA" "ON THE
ROBERT E. LEE."

Though often "AMAZED AND CONFUSED" with "SUMMERLOVE" in "ACAPULCO" and
having "LOVE ON THE ROCKS" in "JERUSALEM" when I said to my girl, "HEY
LOUISE"
and she answered "MY NAME IS YUSSEL", I still said to myself "THE GOOD
LORD
LOVES YOU" "IF YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN."

I know you think me a "TWO BIT MAN-CHILD" and that the "RED, RED WINE"
and
"HANKY PANKY" have made me a "SOLITARY MAN". Still I always thought
"SOMEDAY
BABY" "I'VE GOT THE FEELING" I'll have "HONEY DRIPPIN' TIMES" in the
"SUNDAY
SUN" instead of "HOLIDAY INN BLUES" caused by the 'KNACKELFERG"
"MERRY-GO-
ROUND" on the "CROOKED STREET" "STORY OF MY LIFE."

Though 'I'M GUILTY" of often being "LOST AMONG THE STARS" "IN ENSENADA",
the
"HURRICANE" that was a "FRONT PAGE STORY" reminded me "I'M ALIVE" and
caused
me to "TURN AROUND" and remember "BROOKLYN ON A SATURDAY NIGHT". I've
arranged my "STARFLIGHT". I'm "COMING HOME" even though "CARMELITA'S
EYES"
tells me I'm "COURTIN' DISASTER" because we both know the "SIGNS" say
"HOME IS A
WOUNDED HEART."

True, "ONCE IN A WHILE", I wish I were still "A FREE MAN IN PARIS" where
"THE
AMERICAN POPULAR SONG" caused those beautiful "DIAMOND GIRLS" to "SAY
MAYBE". Still the "STREET LIFE" there was definitely "JUNGLETIME". "GOD
ONLY
KNOWS" the "FEAR OF THE MARKETPLACE" caused "THE DRIFTER" in me to want
to do "RIGHT BY YOU" and all the "MOTHERS AND DAUGHTERS/FATHERS AND
SONS".

I'm hoping "MAMA DON'T KNOW" about the "JAZZ TIME" at "STAGGER LEE" while
I was
"LOST IN HOLLYWOOD". It "SHOULD HAVE BEEN ME" to "STAND UP FOR LOVE" and

keep you both "HEADED FOR THE FUTURE" by being "THE MAN YOU NEED". "I'M
SAYING I'M SORRY" that I sang "THE POT SMOKERS SONG" at "SHILOH". I keep

hoping "YOU'LL FORGET" that "THE BOAT THAT I ROW" though "CHERRY CHERRY"
"DEEP IN THE MORNING" "AIN'T NO WAY" for this "NEW YORK BOY" to "WALK ON

WATER". And yes, "CAPTAIN SUNSHINE" often made me feel like a "HIGH
ROLLIN'
MAN" just as 'ROSEMARY'S WINE" made "THE LONG HARD CLIMB" OF "THE
ODYSSEY" seem more like "FLIGHT OF THE GULL" to this "SKYBIRD" instead of
the
"LONELY LOOKING SKY" it was.

The great philospher, "JONATHAN LIVINGSTON SEAGULL" told me once "I'VE
BEEN
THIS WAY BEFORE" so "DRY YOUR EYES" and "BE".

"AS IF" "I'M A BELIEVER" I can see "BOTH SIDES NOW" "TOUCHING YOU,
TOUCHING
ME".


The "FREE LIFE" with my "SMOKEY LADY" was "DONE TOO SOON". "EVERYBODY'S
TALKING" about her "CHILDSONG" of "I AM THE LION" written by 'MR.
BOJANGLES"
performed with "MISSA" at "THE AFRICAN SUITE". Her "COLDWATER MORNING"
and
"CRACKLIN' ROSIE" evenings prompted her to say "HE AIN'T HEAVY....HE'S MY

BROTHER". But I said "REMEMBER ME", your "DANCING BUMBLE BEE", "DANCING
IN
THE STREET" so I could buy "THE LAST PICASSO" from "LADY MAGDELENE" for
"YOU
BABY".


It was then she said to me "STARGAZER" "ALL I EVER REALLY NEED IS YOU"
and your
"GIFT OF SONG". She smiled and said you know I don't even care if "YOU
DON'T
BRING ME FLOWERS" anymore because I know 'YOU'VE GOT TROUBLES".

"YOU'RE SO SWEET, HORSEFLIES KEEP HANGIN' ROUND YOUR FACE", I said.
Well that was "THE LAST THING ON MY MIND" I thought you'd say, she
smiled, "IF YOU
GO AWAY" who will "SAVE ME"? Then she smiled again and said lets "REGGAE

STRUT" to "LONGFELLOW'S SERENADE" in our "CRUNCHY GRANOLA SUITE".

Instead of saying "YES, I WILL," I said "MARRY ME", and let's sing
"LOVE'S OWN
SONG" together. "IT'S A TRIP" "MY TIME WITH YOU", she responded, "IF I
COULDN'T
SEE YOU AGAIN, " it would ruin "THE BEST YEARS OF OUR LIVES." You and me
got
"A GROOVY KIND OF LOVE" she said but "WILL YOU LOVE ME TOMORROW?"
"THE LOOK OF LOVE" is on your face and "HURTING YOU DON'T COME EASY" but
I
don't want us to be a "BOXED SET" of "HUSBANDS AND WIVES", she said, I
just
wanted to be your "LONELY LADY #17, brought to you on "MOON RIVER" by
the
"FORTUNE OF THE NIGHT".

I said I know this is a "HARD TIME FOR LOVERS" but "THIS TIME" I want us
to be "ONE
HAND/ONE HEART".

"HOLLY, HOLY", she exclaimed, what kind of "DANCE OF THE SABRES" is this?
Why
do you love me?, she asked. "WHY DO i LOVE YOU", I replied, "LET THE
LITTLE BOY
SING" all the reasons why I love you. Better to sing "ADON OLOM", or
"KOL NIDRE"
or even "HAVAH NAGILAH", she said angrily.

"DON'T BE CRUEL", I said. "DON'T MAKE ME OVER", she replied.

"ANGEL", I pleaded, "I'M GLAD YOU'RE HERE WITH ME TONIGHT" "DON'T
THINK...FEEL". I "JUST NEED TO LOVE YOU MORE". "LET ME TAKE YOU IN MY
ARMS
AGAIN" and let's "REMINISCE FOR AWHILE" "UNTIL IT'S TIME FOR YOU TO GO"

"CRAZY", she said, "I USED TO LOVE THE SHELTER OF YOUR ARMS" but now all
I'm
thinking is "OPEN WIDE THESE PRISON DOORS" and "I'LL COME RUNNING" take
the
"BLUE HIGHWAY" "LIKE YOU DO"    "BACK IN L.A." You can't "WIN THE WORLD"
with
"ONE GOOD LOVE". That's so "PRIMITIVE", she said.

I'm a "FOOL FOR YOU", I said, I want "ME BESIDE YOU".

"SLEEP WITH ME TONIGHT", she begged.
I want to be "DEEP INSIDE OF YOU" I said but "FIRST YOU HAVE TO SAY YOU
LOVE ME."

"LOVE DOESN'T LIVE HERE ANYMORE", she sighed. "YOU'VE LOST THAT LOVING
FEELING"?, I asked. We've no "COMMON GROUND", she said. She kissed me
lightly and said always remember our "SWEET L.A. DAYS" and then she was
gone. As she boarded the 'MEMPHIS FLYER", she smiled once and said
"I'LL SEE YOU ON THE RADIO." I thought I'll always be "HOOKED ON THE
MEMORY OF YOU".

Back in my room, my guitar, "RUBY", sat waiting for me. Well, I'll play
"ONE FOR MY
BABY", I thought. However, because of all my "MOODS", my "BEAUTIFUL
NOISE"    sounded like "STONES" as one "SONG SUNG BLUE" after the other
began to
create "A GOOD KIND OF LONELY" in my heart.

I went "UP ON THE ROOF" and thought "I THINK IT'S GONNA RAIN TODAY".
"CAN
ANYBODY HEAR ME?", I wondered as I tossed my "SONGS OF LIFE" like a
"STRAW IN THE WIND" "ON THE WAY TO THE SKY" and hummed, "DO WAH DIDDY
DIDDY". I thought my sadness was more like "TALKING OPTIMIST BLUES. GOOD
DAY TODAY" was entirely possible despite the 'RIVER DEEP -- MOUNTAIN
HIGH" "I'VE GOT YOU UNDER MY SKIN" feelings I have now. "IN THE STILL OF
THE NIGHT", I determined, "MY HEART WILL GO ON" and "I CAN'T HELP FALLING
IN LOVE" again "AS TIME GOES BY".

"HELLO AGAIN" "DO YOU KNOW THE WAY TO SAN JOSE?", I heard as "DESIREE"
approached handing me a "SCOTCH ON THE ROCKS". We laughed as only those
sharing a private joke together can. We briefly discussed my "BLUE
DESTINY" and "LOVE BURNS", but she cajoled me to "DIG IN" and "CANTA
LIBRE". She reminded me tomorrow was to bring a beautiful "CHELSEA
MORNING", a rarity for a "SEPTEMBER MORN".

'THE SUN AIN'T GONNA SHINE ANYMORE" I grumped good naturedly. Stop you
"RAINY DAY SONG" she instructed, and turn off that "HEARTLIGHT" and "PLAY
ME" to "GUITAR HEAVEN". "EVERYTHING'S GONNA BE FINE" she said.

When I looked, there were "MOUNTAINS OF LOVE" in the "LOVESCAPE" of her
eyes. "TAKE CARE OF ME" and 'BABY, CAN I HOLD YOU" and I'm "SOMEONE WHO
BELIEVES IN YOU" her eyes said.

Walking away I said "I FEEL YOU" but "DON'T TURN AROUND". "I WISH
EVERYTHING WAS ALRIGHT" but this isn't "THE WAY" "WHEN YOU MISS YOUR
LOVE".

"GOLD DON'T RUST" here in "SPANISH HARLEM" she flirted. There is no
"SHAME" in "A MODERN DAY VERSION OF LOVE".

It's "A MATTER OF LOVE", I reminded her. "IF I LOST MY WAY" back to my
"KENTUCKY WOMAN", there would be "NO LIMIT" to the "EBB TIDE" under my
"TENNESSEE MOON."

"LORDY", she replied, "HEAVEN CAN WAIT". It's a "MILLION MILES AWAY" from
the "FLAME" here at "CLOWN TOWN". Still, I said to her gently, there's
"FIRE ON THE TRACKS" "AND THE GRASS DON'T PAY NO MIND" "AT NIGHT" .

"IF THERE WERE NO DREAMS", she started, but the bells began to ring out.
"HEAR THEM BELLS", I said, she's the "ANGEL ABOVE MY HEAD" and even if I
am "DANCING TO THE PARTY NEXT DOOR", "IN MY LIFETIME" she is my "SECRET
LOVE" "AND I LOVE HER".

"CAN YOU FEEL THE LOVE TONIGHT?", she asked, "WHAT WILL I DO?" I'm
"FALLING" for you. "BE MINE TONIGHT", she pleaded.

"GIRL, YOU'LL BE A WOMAN SOON", I sighed, Now I know that you "THANK THE
LORD FOR THE NIGHTTIME" and think "YOU'VE GOT TO ME" singing "MONDAY,
MONDAY". I know you are thinking just "DO IT", but even "IF I NEVER KNEW
YOUR NAME" you couldn't have "THE FEEL OF NEIL."

I know you know all about "SWEET CAROLINE", but just as the "RIVER RUNS,
NEW GROWN PLUMS" go into "PORCUPINE PIE", I'd be a "GITCHY GOOMY" damned
to be "FOREVER IN BLUE JEANS" singing "YESTERDAY'S SONGS." "ONLY YOU"
know I'm not "THAT KIND". So, "HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SWEET SIXTEEN". Go find
some "SWEETS FOR THE SWEET" from "TEN LONELY GUYS". With "THE WAY YOU
LOOK TONIGHT", you won't need 'LOVE POTION #9."

Just remember "EVERYBODY" deserves "TRUE LOVE". So "WHEN YOU WISH UPON A
STAR", and sing your "UNCHAINED MELODY" of "LOVE WITH THE PROPER
STRANGER" don't bother "PUTTIN' ON THE RITZ". Quiet the "WINDMILLS OF
YOUR MIND" with this "RED RUBBER BALL" "JUST FOR YOU". And remember as
"I, (WHO HAVE NOTHING)" dance the "LA BAMBA", I'll think of you all
"VELVET GLOVES AND SPIT" and hope that one day when you're older, you'll
"SAVE THE LAST DANCE FOR ME".

Well, Father, after all this, I'm sure you must think me depressed. But
I'm thinking all this is a great "TAP ROOT MANUSCRIPT" for "THE MOVIE
ALBUM."

After a week with "BROTHER LOVE'S TRAVELING SALVATION SHOW", I'm
"PRACTICALLY NEWBORN".

"SOOLAIMON",

"THE JAZZ SINGER"

I live in Dallas and see Neil in concert each time he is in the Dallas/Ft.Worth area. I flew to Manchester, England on February 26 to see him inconcert there on Saturday, February 27 and flew back to Dallas on February 28.It was a long journey in such a short time, however, it was very well worthit. This was Neil at his very best. I did see him in Ft. Worth in October of1998 and enjoyed that as well, however, the concert I saw in Manchester wasmore than outstanding!!!! He was much more energetic, not to mention helooked wonderful. I wish I could relive that evening it was so fantastic. I plan on attending at least one, maybe two more of his concerts this year.If anyone reads this and has any idea how I can obtain a ticket to either hisperformance in Sydney, Australia on Saturday, May 22 or Melbourne on Saturday, June 5, please e-mail me at dalfan07@aol.com. I did find a web site to buy my ticket for Manchester but have not had any luck in finding one for Australia.I also plan on catching him on the west coast so I keep checking the tourdates to see when they will be posted for August and September.

Becky Moser

Like Michael Brazil, I believe that Neil's current show is the best he has produced since 1984. I have been a fan for 29 years (I am now 42) and have seen Neil perform 11 times. Only his 1984 show in Croke Park, Dublin surpassed his current effort, and then only because it was his first appearnce in Ireland and we were all so carried away with the emotion of it all.

On this trip, my wife permitted me to attend three of the six concerts. Each show was subtly different, perhaps due to the location of my seat. For the final concert of the Irish leg of the tour I had the great privilege of being in the second row, right beside the stairway to the stage. This concert will aways remain very special to me.

As for the shows themselves, well you will have read other people's reviews and anything further that I might say is largely superfluous. The great thing about Neil is that he always manages to portray an image of someone who is genuinely delighted to have the opportunity to perform for you. He may be completely knackered at the end of a long tour but he will never shortchange his fans. He also seems to get a definite "charge" if he has a very responsive audience, and he always has that in Ireland. The band also give everything they have got and I have never felt shortchanged by their efforts. Their views on the Irish leg of the tour, as expressed on the Diamondville Site, sum it all up.

It was particularly amusing, at the final Irish concert to hear, when Neil was singing "I've got you under my skin", one overwrought, and young, female attendee cry out that she had reeeally got him under her skin! And so say all of us.

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Vol 53: March 4, 1999

Well the great man has done it again,simply fantastic performances from
the consumate professional. I thought after seing the concert at
Wembley, London a couple of years ago that he was losing it, but out of
the five concerts I have seen this was undoubtedly the best. Awesome.
When you consider the staying power of his songs over the years there's
no-one can compare. Thes groups of today would do themselves a big
favour by attending one of Neils concerts to see what entertainment is.
Only worrying thing is that when I first went to one of his concerts 14
years ago I and most of the fans had hair on our heads. I have learned
one thing though and that is if you decide to see two concerts as my
wife and I did, go easy on the clapping on the first one as I damaged my
hands making it impossible to clap on the second.
Thanks again Neil for a wonderful visit to Scotland hope you come back.

Ian McKay Aberdeen, Scotland

Neil kicked off the European leg of his World Tour 99 in Dublin when he
played six nights at the cities Point Depot.
As a fan for 25 years I thought I had seen it all and equally thought I had
seen the best of Neil ........how wrong I was. The show works on every level
and is the best I've seen since 1984 , Neil is more at ease and confident
and the banter and humour flows as naturally as if in conversation with some
old friends . His voice is as strong as ever and is on pitch right from the
start of the 2 hour 15 minutes show.
The songs are a fantastic mix of old and new performed with verve as each
one seems transend to its predecessor. The band are right on the money and
appear to realise that this is better than working. The lighting suits
the
in-the-round format like never before and the sound never falters. The
crowd know all the words to all the songs and seemingly have been told to
singalong or else Barry Manilow will appear, the result is a continuos
wall of Beautiful Noise.
Driving home still on a natural high I began to think about those songs
Neil had omitted and thought to myself "Hey Come Back Again you've Done Too
Soon".
To those of you yet to see the show enjoy you have my envy.
---Michael Brazil , Cork , Ireland

Monday Feb 22 1999, I spent probably the best two and a half hours of
my life ...... sitting three rows from the front ,watching Neil Diamond
in the round ....he was brilliant !!! I first saw Neil in London,
England in 1984 but on that occasion I was soooooo far away that I could
hardly see him. This time however I couldn't have wished for more ( well
the icing on the cake would have been to meet him ! Well we can all wish
can't we :o) ) He was so relaxed with himself and the audience and
bantered with us throughout the show. I was one of the lucky ones who
had him right in front of me when he sang " Hello Again " and also when
he and Linda Press sang the last notes of their brilliant duet " You
Don't Bring Me Flowers " and ended in a "romantic" embrace. Sigh .......
why couldn't that be me . Like the red red wine that he sings about,
Neil is getting better with age and was looking very slim & trim and
thankfully he has got rid of the longer hair style. Scotland has waited
30 years for Neil to visit .....lets hope he makes another visit in the
not too distant future .... "Haste ye back Neil !!"

Love the home page by the way Joe . I'll be visiting on a regular basis
......keep up the work.
--Kathy P

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Vol 52: February 7, 1999

Well what do you know!!! After years of being a Neil Diamond fan, I finally got the chance to see him perform in person at the Pepsi Arena in Albany, NY.

I have to say the waiting was well worth it. I drove in from North Adams, MA and the traffic entering NY state was terrible, bumper to bumper. I have never seen anything like it on these little country roads. Would you believe I purchased tickets the morning of the concert and got seats that were not to bad although they were in the upper level, but not quite in nosebleed heaven.

My daughter went with me (I think only to keep me happy) and wound up having a great time. Neil has acqired another fan. I love the way he sings Hello. I'm willing to bet every woman there imagines that he is singing just to her. Don't we wish!!! I have decided that whenever Neil appears close by again (within two hours drive) I'll kill to get tickets. I have gone on a spending spree buying cassetts (don't have a CD player in my car) and a couple of videos. I guess at my age I can still be a wild and crazy fan. (And I thought that was only for teenagers). So I hope Neil keeps on going for a long time to come and I will be there enjoying very minute of it.

Nancy

I just wanted to say what a wonderful job you have done with this page. I can't believe all the insight I found . It will take me a long time to get through all this great info.

I particularly enjoyed looking back to my first Neil Diamond concert at the Cow Palace in early 1979 when I was a senior in High School (the only time I ever cut class was to get tickets to this show).

One thing Neil did on this tour that I have not seen him do since was near the intermission, he saw someone trying to take his picture, so he called her up to the front row and posed for her. Then of course, everyone started reaching for their cameras. So he announced he was going to do one of his favorite things. He told everyone to get ready to take a picture. Then he told the light guy to turn off all the lights. On the count of three, everyone snapped a picture and it lit up the musty old Cow Palace like the Fourth of July (which is big, here). Then he went to stage left (my side) and did the count again.

This led to one of the best moments of any ND concert. By now, hundreds of people had rushed closer to the stage. So he had the lighting guy turn up the house lights so people could find their way back to their seats. While this took ten or fifteen minutes, he just talked to the audience. It wasn't Neil Diamond the entertainer up there. It was Neil Diamond, the host of this intimate party. He just rapped to people in the front rows, he talked about things. Someone requested a song at this point. He said "Darlin', we haven't prepared that song for this tour... oh what the heck. You guys think you could wing your way through the first 24 bars or so?" And he went on to do a superb, improvised version of Crunchy Granola Suite.

For you to have the SF Examiner review of this great show was such a thrill.

Ron Cervi

I'm a longtime ND believer from San Francisco, currently teaching in Tokyo, who has been lucky enough to attend the Aladdin opening, "Tennessee Moon" filming and MGM Grand New Year's concert. My university sends a group of students to Australia every spring for a combination homestay/study tour, and I'm chaperoning this year's group. We're scheduled to be in Sydney from March 6 to 29 (wish I could stay two more months to catch that leg of the tour!), and while I'm there I would be interested in fellow fans--if only to find out if you're REALLY the most rabid Neil Diamond followers in the world! Looking forward to hearing from somebody. Thank you!

Ted Quock
Home/Road: thqduck@aol.com
Work: thq@keisen.ac.jp

I have been a huge Neil Diamond fan since "Tap Root Manuscript" and "Stones." I had been aware of him before, but "The African Trilogy," "Done Too Soon," "Stones" and "I Am ... I Said" combined to change my life forever.

Growing up, I became familiar with his work through Top 40 radio, and the idea of seeing a concert never occurred to me until the "Jonathan Livingston Seagull" album. Not that I had been against the idea of seeing him perform live before that, but rather that it galvanized me to HAVE to see him on stage. Unfortunately, that coincided with his then-retirement from touring.

My first time to catch him in concert was a pilgrimage to a snowy Salt Lake City, where this San Franciscan found himself driving in snow for the first time--in a rental car, yet! This was followed by the opening of the Aladdin Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Circumstances then took me to work in Japan in 1979. The following year, I caught him at the Cow Palace in San Francisco, but after that I got unlucky--none of my subsequent trips back to the United States coincided with a tour of his.

My itch was finally scratched in Nashville with the filming of the "Under a Tennessee Moon" TV special. Seeing all these brand-new songs being performed in public for the first time was a real treat, but ultimately it was not the same as a concert--especially considering what I had been reading about the new "concert in the round."

Thanks largely to my long-overdue introduction to the Internet, my Neil Diamond concert drought finally came to an end after 19 years with the recent New Year stand in Las Vegas. I caught both shows, and my comments follow:

1. Despite the 19-year drought, I was surprised at how familiar it all sounded. Not in a negative way, fortunately, but afterwards I realized that all the live CDs (including the "Reader's Digest" set) and videos released over the intervening years had made a real impact on me, with the result that I recognized every song from the initial bars, even "I Got the Feeling (Oh, No, No)." Unfortunately, this also eliminated the element of surprise--it didn't take much to anticipate that he would do "Auld Lang Syne" at the stroke of midnight.

2. My greatest disappointment was the double whammy that the two shows were identical (with the exception of "Auld Lang Syne"), and that there was no encore.

3. Neil himself was in fine form--only once during each show did his voice falter at all, and then only for a moment. While that final low note in "But then I know it's growing strong" has long been a legendary indicator of what shape his vocal chords are in, "Unchained Melody" has become an even better, and riskier, one--if he can't pull that song off, he should take the night off.

4. The program didn't include quite the balance I would have liked: heavy on the "Jazz Singer," "Jonathan Livingston Seagull" and "Movie Album" selections, at the expense of popular favorites like "Kentucky Woman," "September Morn" and "Heartlight" and personal favorites of mine such as "Stones," "Sleep with Me Tonight" and "Hooked on the Memory of You."

5. The magic was there--I took my 78-year-old father to the New Year's Day show and caught him clapping along with a few songs. Not that he was the only one: Neil had the audience both nights firmly in the palm of his hand with no effort at all. I have never been enamored of his fondness for repeated encores on sing-along numbers, but there was no denying that I was decidedly in the minority on that count when it came to his new take on "Sweet Caroline." My father has a bad leg, and rather than have him limp along step by step with the hordes after the show I suggested standing to one side until the crowd died down. The concessionaires were canny enough to have the live version from the "Greatest Hits Live" video playing in a loop, and as the audience filed by it was quite overwhelming to see group after group of strangers joining together on "Wo-wo-wo" and "So good, so good, so good" long after the show was over.

6. The theater in the round was a revelation, especially with the advantage of tickets to both shows. I was able to devote a fair amount of time to scrutinizing both the band and the rest of the audience. A fascinating sociological study, to be sure.

7. I hope it's just the MGM Grand, but the cheap plastic binoculars should be avoided by all means in favor of the more pricey rental ones. And, while the "Heartlight" card-type flashlights are cool beyond words, they come with cheap batteries that don't last too long after the show. The souvenir book should be called that because it is much more a promotional companion to "The Movie Album" than a program book--in fact, it can't be called a program book in any sense of the word. What's more, I was disappointed to find it comes devoid of any song lyrics. On the other hand, the ND mousepads were a most pleasant surprise!

All in all, an experience not at all regretted. I just hope I won't have to wait another 19 years until my next one!!!

Ted Quock
thqduck@aol.com

Hi Joe:
Great Site!
I have nevered visited before, but when I was out driving today I heard on the radio that it was Neil Diamond's birthday, so I thought I would check and see if there was a site. This is great. I have been a really big fan for many years. My all time favorite album is Hot August Night. Even my kids (ages 13 - 18) know all of the songs.

I've seen him in concert twice, once about 20 years ago in Buffalo and then just a few years ago in Hamiliton, Ontario. It was fabulous to see the wide range of ages who attend his concerts, there were people from 18 to 80. I would love to say Happy Birthday to Neil and hope he has many, many more!

Keep up the good work on the site too!

Cheers,

Dawn

Hi

I saw Neil Diamond in April 92 in Sydney (Australia) It was the best concert I had every seen and at the time I was pregnant with my first child, throughout the whole concert she kept kicking me and now when I put Neil on she comes running from where ever she is to dance to it. I have alot of Neil's music and I can only play it when my husband is not home as he dose not like it. We went on holidays to the coast and he picked up a tape and put it on and hay guess what it was Neil Diamond.

I think after 7 years he is starting to like Neil Diamond. My husband has just told me that he is buying me a ticket to the concert in Sydney in May this year. I would really love to meet him in person, maybe some day.

Tammy Smith

Canberra (Australia)

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Vol 51: January 23, 1999

Hey Joe:

My wife and I were also at the New Year's Eve show in Las Vegas and we loved every minute of it -- even the new tunes from the Movie Album sounded great. Neil was in excellent form all night -- we enjoyed this concert nearly as much as the Christmas concert in Chicago in December '93.

What set this show apart were the 5 encores of Sweet Caroline that Neil performed with audience participation as we awaited the final moments to bring in the new year. After singing "Auld Lang Syne" twice with the audience as buckets and buckets of colored confetti fell from the ceiling, Neil jumped right into "Headed for the Future, complete with a spectacular laser light show.

The concert was so good that we questioned the motives of the critic who reviewed the concert for the Las Vegas Review-Journal. I can understand someone not liking a performer - everyone has a right to their opinion - but this guy obviously had a hidden agenda long before Neil ever took the stage. Oh well, what can you do?

Another highlight for us came the next day when we ran into Linda and Reinie Press in the casino. They were quite friendly and seemed surprised that we recognized them. Unfortunately, there was no sign of Neil anywhere.

All in all, we came away with some very fond memories of celebrating New Year 1999 not to mention a bag full of Neil Diamond merchandise (like I need more shirts?). The only thing that could make it better would be for Diamond to release a live video of this concert on DVD and VHS - that would be cool!

Jim and Jody Cross

Olathe, KS

skybird@kcinter.net

I recently read an article about Neil's newest CD in the recent People magazine. I was really upset with what it had to say. Ther were literally calling it a bomb. I enjoyed the CD. The only thing I can say bad about it was that you can tell Neil was overwhemed by the orchestra. I felt that since he did not write the songs, he was sort of detatched from the songs. When he sings his own songs, you can feel his heart and soul in the music. I still cannot figure out why the magazine would call it a bomb. I rather enjoyed sitting back and relaxing to this CD.

I, like Leslie and probably many others, was astonished at Mike Weatherford's review