Think about sitting in a crowded Las Vegas showroom, watching Elvis Presley perform. Suddenly, the King of Rock and Roll points directly into the crowd, says your name, and tells thousands of screaming fans that he loves your music! That is exactly what happened to a young songwriter named Neil Diamond in 1970.
For years, a wild rumor claimed that the two superstars even jumped onstage to sing a duet together, but the real story is actually much sweeter.
Elvis Presley Sweet Caroline 1970 HQ Live
In May 1969, Neil Diamond released a catchy new love song called “Sweet Caroline.” It was a massive hit that people absolutely loved because the chorus was so big, bright, and fun to sing along with. The song was so good that it quickly caught the attention of Elvis himself.
By the next year, Elvis decided to add the track to his high-energy Las Vegas concert shows.
When Elvis performed the song on February 16, 1970, he didn’t pretend it was his own. Before the band even started playing, Elvis told the audience, “There’s a guy who recorded a beautiful song last year, and his name is Neil Diamond.”
Then, Elvis turned the track into a total live showstopper! While Neil’s original version was gentle and slow, Elvis used his deep, powerful voice, a loud horn section, and enthusiastic backup singers to turn it into a fast and exciting party anthem.
Neil Diamond talks about being Elvis’ Neighbour
Even though Neil Diamond was not in the room for that particular performance, he did attend another Elvis show around that time. When Elvis spotted Neil at a table, he stopped the show to introduce him. The excited crowd went wild and begged Neil to climb onto the stage to sing. However, Neil was so starstruck and nervous to sing with his childhood idol that he politely stayed in his seat!
Elvis smiled and cracked a quick joke to ease his friend’s pressure.
This amazing musical crossover happened because both men had a deep respect for each other. Elvis loved singing the absolute best current music, and Neil was honored that the biggest star in the world appreciated his songwriting.
They even became next-door neighbors in California shortly after! Elvis may have been the ultimate King, but by rocking “Sweet Caroline,” he helped turn Neil Diamond’s beautiful song into an indestructible piece of music history.