Monday, September 8, 2008 - 10:04 am - Steamy

I became a fan when the early hits were being played on AM radio in the mid-1960s as a 13-yr-old carrying a portable radio in the early evening hours listening to 'Cracklin' Rosie', 'Sweet Caroline', 'Brother Loves Traveling Salvation Show', etc. on KXOK in St. Louis. There was something different about the sound of those tunes, something unique, if you look deeper into the songs at the creativity of the songwriter / artist that is a skill I certainly do not posess. I'd say most ppl who play a musical instrument are not so blessed with the same creativity as Neil Diamond. The fans have been spoiled over the years. When I buy a new album, I do not expect a 'Greatet Hits' album, I'm checking out what the artist is doing lately. Pop music does not receive the same amount of play on the radio today as it once did... Having said all that, Neil...the St. Louis concert has been re-scheduled for Nov 2. I noitced you are scheduled for 22 concerts in Sept-Oct before coming to St. Louis. Now you know your own voice better than anyone, but I would say this seems like a very aggressive and demanding schedule, not so much physically but vocally, trying to please all the fans. Seems like that would be a lot of pressure on you. But your striving for perfection in your craft for 40+ years is why you have so many loyal fans. Flag as offensive