5 songs that influenced Neil Diamond

Neil Diamond, the legendary singer-songwriter, has often cited various influences throughout his career, shaping his unique sound. Here are five songs that have notably influenced him:

1. **“What’d I Say” by Ray Charles (1959)**: This groundbreaking track, with its blend of gospel, rhythm, and blues, had a profound impact on Diamond. Charles’ ability to infuse raw emotion and soulful delivery into his music inspired Diamond to explore similar depths in his own songwriting and performance.

2. **“Tutti Frutti” by Little Richard (1955)**: Little Richard’s energetic and rebellious style in “Tutti Frutti” was a major influence on Diamond. The song’s exuberant spirit and dynamic performance helped shape Diamond’s approach to showmanship and his embrace of rock and roll’s vibrant energy.

3. **“Diana” by Paul Anka (1957)**: Paul Anka’s “Diana” was an early example of a young songwriter connecting deeply with his audience through personal, heartfelt lyrics. Diamond admired Anka’s ability to craft relatable stories and would later incorporate similar narrative techniques into his own songwriting.

4. **“Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel (1970)**: This song’s sweeping arrangement and poignant lyrics demonstrated the power of combining melody with lyrical depth. Diamond was inspired by the song’s emotional resonance and its ability to connect with listeners on a profound level, influencing his approach to crafting ballads.

5. **“The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel (1964)**: The haunting, introspective quality of this track influenced Diamond’s songwriting, particularly in his exploration of personal and societal themes. The song’s reflective nature helped Diamond see the potential for music to convey complex emotions and social commentary.

These songs helped shape Neil Diamond’s distinctive style, blending emotional depth with memorable melodies and powerful performances.