Neil Diamond once pulled a move that sounds more like a movie scene than a recording session. In 1991, Kim Carnes walked into his studio just to say hello to their producer. But she did not get out so easily. Neil was such a huge fan of her raspy voice that he playfully locked the doors and told her she could not leave until they sang together. This funny ‘hostage’ moment led to a beautiful song that was never even supposed to happen.
Neil has a smooth voice while Kim has a famous scratchy soulfulness that makes you feel every word. They were not trying to make a massive hit or win awards. They were just two friends having a great time and seeing what would happen if they blended their sounds. It is rare to see such a big star act like a nervous fanboy, but that is exactly how Neil felt about Kim.
You have to see this charming story for yourself in the video below:
Neil Diamond & Kim Carnes – Hooked on the Memory of You
Fans who remember the ‘Lovescape’ era are still talking about this pairing years later. One viewer noted that their voices fit together like a hand in a glove. Another person mentioned that they never knew the story of how the song started as a total accident. Sometimes a “just for fun” moment turns into a classic that stays in your heart forever.
That playful spirit in the studio was not a one time thing for the boy from Brooklyn. While Neil was having fun with new friends in the nineties, he never forgot where he started or the songs that made him a household name. He eventually took all those memories back to the streets where his dreams first began to grow.
Neil Diamond – I Am… I Said (Archival Brooklyn Footage)
This tribute features rare film of a young Neil walking through his old neighborhood in New York. It shows a side of him that is quiet and thoughtful, far away from the bright lights of Los Angeles. People say this footage feels like looking through a family photo album.
Neil Diamond has spent over fifty years being one of the most honest voices in music. He does not hide his feelings and he always stays true to his roots. Whether he is joking around in a studio or singing about his home, his heart is always on his sleeve. Be sure to follow Neil Diamond on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to keep up with his incredible legacy.