Neil Diamond, the legendary musician known for hit songs like “Sweet Caroline” and “Cherry, Cherry,” has captured the hearts of millions over his illustrious career. However, in 2018, Diamond faced a significant challenge when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, forcing him to retire from touring. In a recent interview with CBS Sunday Morning, the 82-year-old singer-songwriter shared his emotional journey of acceptance and finding peace with his diagnosis.
Diamond admitted that it took him some time to come to terms with his Parkinson’s diagnosis. Initially, he found himself in denial and not ready to accept the reality of his condition. He shared, “When the doctor told me what it was, I was just not ready to accept it. I had work to do, so I said, ‘Oh, okay. I’ll see you later.’”
The news of Diamond’s retirement from concert touring in 2018 left many fans heartbroken. He expressed his reluctance and disappointment in a press release, mentioning how honored he was to perform for the public for the past 50 years. Giving up touring was undoubtedly a difficult decision for Diamond, but he acknowledged that it was necessary due to the challenges Parkinson’s posed.
Nevertheless, Diamond revealed that in the past few weeks, he has finally found peace with his retirement and diagnosis. He described the shift as a calm entering the hurricane of his life, allowing things to become quiet and serene. The musician admitted that he now likes himself better and is more forgiving towards others and himself. As he said, “And the beat goes on, and it will go on long after I’m gone.”
While Neil Diamond may have retired from performing, his impact on the music industry and his fans is everlasting. A Broadway musical based on his life, titled “A Beautiful Noise,” is currently captivating audiences. Sharing his thoughts on the production, Diamond called it “absolutely wonderful” and a dream come true. The musical served as a form of therapy for the artist, even though some scenes were difficult for him to watch.
Despite his retirement, Diamond still makes rare appearances that thrill his devoted fanbase. In 2021, he surprised attendees at the premiere of “A Beautiful Noise” by performing “Sweet Caroline” during the curtain call. Additionally, in June 2022, Diamond sang “Sweet Caroline” at a Boston Red Sox game, a beloved tradition at Fenway Park.
Parkinson’s disease may have altered Neil Diamond’s life, but it is evident that his spirit remains strong. His ability to inspire and his unwavering love for his fans speak volumes about the kind of person he is. While his journey with Parkinson’s has been challenging, Diamond’s acceptance and resilience serve as an inspiration to all facing similar obstacles.
If you are a Neil Diamond fan or if his story has touched your heart, please share this article with others. Let’s spread the love and support for this extraordinary artist!
