No 'America'? Neil Diamond songs that didn't make 'Song Sung Blue'
- - No 'America'? Neil Diamond songs that didn't make 'Song Sung Blue'
Bryan Alexander, USA TODAYDecember 26, 2025 at 9:30 PM
0
One of the bonuses of making "Song Sung Blue" filled with Neil Diamond songs is how astonishingly prolific the globally beloved singer-songwriter was during his five decades of recording and performing.
On the downside, faced with such an embarrassment of riches, writer-director Craig Brewer had to make the impossible call over which Diamond classics would NOT make the 2-hour-13-minute drama starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson as the real-life tribute duo Lightning & Thunder.
"The most difficult thing for me was that I had Neil Diamond's whole catalog," Brewer tells USA TODAY. "That was so hard. To this day I can't believe 'You Don't Bring Me Flowers" is not in this movie. We didn't have the room."
Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson get ready to sing some Neil Diamond songs with director Craig Brewer on the set of "Song Sung Blue."
Besides cutting a new version of the famed "Flowers" duet with Barbra Streisand, Brewer had to axe Diamond's iconic patriotic 1981 song "America," which was lavishly shot for the "Song Sung Blue" grand concert finale sequence.
"Let me tell you this, America: we did film 'America,' " Brewer says. "We shot it for the finale, but that would have been one song too many. And we decided we're not going to use it. My producer was pretty mad because he loves that song. And so do I."
It's not completely gone. Brewer promises a "fantastic performance of 'America,' " performed by Jackman and Hudson on stage, as an extra on the eventual Blu-ray release.
Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman play a popular Milwaukee Neil Diamond tribute act in the musical drama "Song Sung Blue."What Neil Diamond songs are in 'Song Sung Blue'?
The official movie soundtrack lists this power line-up of Neil Diamond songs.
"Cherry, Cherry" – Hugh Jackman ft. Kate Hudson
"I’m a Believer" – Hugh Jackman ft. Kate Hudson
"Forever In Blue Jeans – Hugh Jackman & Kate Hudson"
"Sweet Caroline" – Hugh Jackman & Kate Hudson
"Play Me" – Hugh Jackman & Kate Hudson (a movie high point)
"Crunchy Granola Suite" – Hugh Jackman & Kate Hudson
"Holly Holy" – Hugh Jackman & Kate Hudson
"I Am…I Said" – Hugh Jackman
"Soolaimon"/"Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show" – Hugh Jackman & Kate Hudson (from the grand finale)
"Song Sung Blue" – Hugh Jackman & Kate Hudson
Soundtrack versions are different from the film in some cases. For example, Jackman sings "Song Sung Blue" solo twice during the movie.
The film also features snippets of the original Diamond recording of "Cracklin' Rosie" and "O Holy Night."
"Song Sung Blue," starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Here, Diamond is seen in London for his first British concert during a tour of Europe in 1971.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>Singer and songwriter Neil Diamond's music career spans five decades, marked by beloved hits and global acclaim. A look back at his years in music ahead of the Diamond-inspired movie "Song Sung Blue," starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Here, Diamond is seen in London for his first British concert during a tour of Europe in 1971.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KqgZiNtKpo421Yd3ewuOTA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzI4/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d056b5f51e480729f509d36642c63c59 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Singer and songwriter Neil Diamond's music career spans five decades, marked by beloved hits and global acclaim. A look back at his years in music ahead of the Diamond-inspired movie "Song Sung Blue," starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Here, Diamond is seen in London for his first British concert during a tour of Europe in 1971.
">Singer and songwriter Neil Diamond's music career spans five decades, marked by beloved hits and global acclaim. A look back at his years in music ahead of the Diamond-inspired movie "Song Sung Blue," starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Here, Diamond is seen in London for his first British concert during a tour of Europe in 1971.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KqgZiNtKpo421Yd3ewuOTA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzI4/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d056b5f51e480729f509d36642c63c59 class=caas-img>The musician concentrates during a chess game in 1972.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0D8RsTUY1RmN5b3ss7746g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MzQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/811c7b4fd40206a408350e1e37f012df class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
The musician concentrates during a chess game in 1972.
">The musician concentrates during a chess game in 1972.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0D8RsTUY1RmN5b3ss7746g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MzQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/811c7b4fd40206a408350e1e37f012df class=caas-img>Neil Diamond relaxes with his guitar in 1979, shortly before making his film debut in a remake of "The Jazz Singer."
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yoOEzOQdoqwWXQZwtKOgbg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05ODg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e5a91733b8608d2c72e9de85effeb06c class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond relaxes with his guitar in 1979, shortly before making his film debut in a remake of "The Jazz Singer."
">Neil Diamond relaxes with his guitar in 1979, shortly before making his film debut in a remake of "The Jazz Singer."
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yoOEzOQdoqwWXQZwtKOgbg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05ODg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e5a91733b8608d2c72e9de85effeb06c class=caas-img>Neil Diamond, left, and Waylon Jennings, second from right, get makeup while shooting a video in Nashville on Jan. 16, 1996, for their duet "One Good Love." The tune appears on Diamond's "Tennessee Moon" album.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/feJ5xWuUltXrCVvbuTempw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04NjQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b8e24d737f809b0aff1492134bb64acc class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond, left, and Waylon Jennings, second from right, get makeup while shooting a video in Nashville on Jan. 16, 1996, for their duet "One Good Love." The tune appears on Diamond's "Tennessee Moon" album.
">Neil Diamond, left, and Waylon Jennings, second from right, get makeup while shooting a video in Nashville on Jan. 16, 1996, for their duet "One Good Love." The tune appears on Diamond's "Tennessee Moon" album.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/feJ5xWuUltXrCVvbuTempw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04NjQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b8e24d737f809b0aff1492134bb64acc class=caas-img>Amanda Peet and performer Neil Diamond arrive at the premiere of "Saving Silverman" on Feb. 7, 2001, in Westwood, California. Diamond makes a cameo in the movie.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1FJUuIrKh9MLfMKBt7wlfQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjIw/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cbc9410e78a56f0b4cda3ddccebcd377 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Amanda Peet and performer Neil Diamond arrive at the premiere of "Saving Silverman" on Feb. 7, 2001, in Westwood, California. Diamond makes a cameo in the movie.
">Amanda Peet and performer Neil Diamond arrive at the premiere of "Saving Silverman" on Feb. 7, 2001, in Westwood, California. Diamond makes a cameo in the movie.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1FJUuIrKh9MLfMKBt7wlfQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjIw/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cbc9410e78a56f0b4cda3ddccebcd377 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs on the "Today" show on May 6, 2005, in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4azKEeQMLskwm2LfLlOTEA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cec39ca1d54e7ce99baf30b199f4a794 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs on the "Today" show on May 6, 2005, in New York City.
">Neil Diamond performs on the "Today" show on May 6, 2005, in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4azKEeQMLskwm2LfLlOTEA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cec39ca1d54e7ce99baf30b199f4a794 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond sings the national anthem prior to Super Bowl XXI between the New York Giants and the Denver Broncos at the Rose Bowl on Jan. 25, 1987, in Pasadena, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0pCDNgNYseACVy0EIt0spg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODU1/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3b178da16120fe2e5dd86ac666a9c9fc class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond sings the national anthem prior to Super Bowl XXI between the New York Giants and the Denver Broncos at the Rose Bowl on Jan. 25, 1987, in Pasadena, California.
">Neil Diamond sings the national anthem prior to Super Bowl XXI between the New York Giants and the Denver Broncos at the Rose Bowl on Jan. 25, 1987, in Pasadena, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0pCDNgNYseACVy0EIt0spg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODU1/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3b178da16120fe2e5dd86ac666a9c9fc class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs on Day 3 of Glastonbury Festival in Somerset, England, on June 29, 2008.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/VmtIaBm_nqP7k1samoDtfg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODI2/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/c3b558ee33d2015e4967b157784f6ec8 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs on Day 3 of Glastonbury Festival in Somerset, England, on June 29, 2008.
">Neil Diamond performs on Day 3 of Glastonbury Festival in Somerset, England, on June 29, 2008.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/VmtIaBm_nqP7k1samoDtfg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODI2/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/c3b558ee33d2015e4967b157784f6ec8 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond (left) and Jeremy Piven attend Game 5 of the Western Conference Semifinals during the NBA Playoffs at Staples Center on May 12, 2009, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xD5J0xcE_KRDLE7mSgdnkg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMTYx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/28d56e2f060b5e4bb4a6bd5d15018497 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond (left) and Jeremy Piven attend Game 5 of the Western Conference Semifinals during the NBA Playoffs at Staples Center on May 12, 2009, in Los Angeles.
">Neil Diamond (left) and Jeremy Piven attend Game 5 of the Western Conference Semifinals during the NBA Playoffs at Staples Center on May 12, 2009, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xD5J0xcE_KRDLE7mSgdnkg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMTYx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/28d56e2f060b5e4bb4a6bd5d15018497 class=caas-img>Faith Hill and honoree Neil Diamond perform at the MusiCares Person of the Year tribute at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Feb. 6, 2009.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tarc4u6buqG6LBaD1SxsaQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MzE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/36b53899a6ddb15db6e19fe2584b6388 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Faith Hill and honoree Neil Diamond perform at the MusiCares Person of the Year tribute at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Feb. 6, 2009.
">Faith Hill and honoree Neil Diamond perform at the MusiCares Person of the Year tribute at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Feb. 6, 2009.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tarc4u6buqG6LBaD1SxsaQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MzE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/36b53899a6ddb15db6e19fe2584b6388 class=caas-img>
Neil Diamond on the Mount Rushmore float as it makes its way down Seventh Avenue through Times Square during the 85th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York Nov. 24, 2011.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PsTuxwDNKIs8dEZdUxDKcw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05Mzc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b2789316f5cc9dfbfd873d243ab3a0f5 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond on the Mount Rushmore float as it makes its way down Seventh Avenue through Times Square during the 85th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York Nov. 24, 2011.
">Neil Diamond on the Mount Rushmore float as it makes its way down Seventh Avenue through Times Square during the 85th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York Nov. 24, 2011.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PsTuxwDNKIs8dEZdUxDKcw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05Mzc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b2789316f5cc9dfbfd873d243ab3a0f5 class=caas-img>The five recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors pose with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton (left) and former President Bill Clinton (right) following a dinner at the State Department on Dec. 3, 2011, in Washington. Front: Sonny Rollins and Barbara Cook. Back: Yo-Yo Ma, Meryl Streep and Neil Diamond.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xKiqb7Wrl10T.jGlYhv15A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05OTQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/12685667fcf8ea8fdf7f5e4b01679f1c class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
The five recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors pose with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton (left) and former President Bill Clinton (right) following a dinner at the State Department on Dec. 3, 2011, in Washington. Front: Sonny Rollins and Barbara Cook. Back: Yo-Yo Ma, Meryl Streep and Neil Diamond.
">The five recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors pose with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton (left) and former President Bill Clinton (right) following a dinner at the State Department on Dec. 3, 2011, in Washington. Front: Sonny Rollins and Barbara Cook. Back: Yo-Yo Ma, Meryl Streep and Neil Diamond.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xKiqb7Wrl10T.jGlYhv15A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05OTQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/12685667fcf8ea8fdf7f5e4b01679f1c class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs during the Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 22, 2011, in Las Vegas.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/CQiNJss96Gwo6PRgBBSgNw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d9e2d648cb400d83650a2f57c695db36 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs during the Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 22, 2011, in Las Vegas.
">Neil Diamond performs during the Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 22, 2011, in Las Vegas.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/CQiNJss96Gwo6PRgBBSgNw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d9e2d648cb400d83650a2f57c695db36 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs during the 26th anniversary Carousel of Hope Ball at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Oct. 20, 2012, in California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/lZVmZETr24ex3awlsAnNZw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/2318295064e077ecae7b9a26fe833490 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs during the 26th anniversary Carousel of Hope Ball at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Oct. 20, 2012, in California.
">Neil Diamond performs during the 26th anniversary Carousel of Hope Ball at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Oct. 20, 2012, in California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/lZVmZETr24ex3awlsAnNZw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/2318295064e077ecae7b9a26fe833490 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond (left) and George Clooney perform during the Carousel of Hope Ball.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/etUK6Exr7IIswZeXIZc95w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMTY5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7a5a5e1da11659bc4aa8bfc5c499e676 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond (left) and George Clooney perform during the Carousel of Hope Ball.
">Neil Diamond (left) and George Clooney perform during the Carousel of Hope Ball.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/etUK6Exr7IIswZeXIZc95w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMTY5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7a5a5e1da11659bc4aa8bfc5c499e676 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond attends a ceremony honoring him with the 2,475th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Aug. 10, 2012.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/dEVyp3Epijoy1jgOcxa8Rg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODY5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3f0a5017fa7dc7005b05c7965cd8a177 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond attends a ceremony honoring him with the 2,475th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Aug. 10, 2012.
">Neil Diamond attends a ceremony honoring him with the 2,475th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Aug. 10, 2012.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/dEVyp3Epijoy1jgOcxa8Rg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODY5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3f0a5017fa7dc7005b05c7965cd8a177 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond sings "Sweet Caroline" during a game between the Kansas City Royals and Boston Red Sox in the 8th inning at Fenway Park on April 20, 2013, in Boston.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PC7_87ngwLaVUPCCvSU9ag--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD03MTM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cc2ec3145da11f6b87f9d3cca70cc5c4 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond sings "Sweet Caroline" during a game between the Kansas City Royals and Boston Red Sox in the 8th inning at Fenway Park on April 20, 2013, in Boston.
">Neil Diamond sings "Sweet Caroline" during a game between the Kansas City Royals and Boston Red Sox in the 8th inning at Fenway Park on April 20, 2013, in Boston.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PC7_87ngwLaVUPCCvSU9ag--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD03MTM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cc2ec3145da11f6b87f9d3cca70cc5c4 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs during A Capitol Fourth, an Independence Day concert on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol on July 4, 2013, in Washington.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/SSeIP8R2beYrI5_JfWad_A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/deeadf09fcaee69e9c24c72eac2295d0 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs during A Capitol Fourth, an Independence Day concert on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol on July 4, 2013, in Washington.
">Neil Diamond performs during A Capitol Fourth, an Independence Day concert on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol on July 4, 2013, in Washington.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/SSeIP8R2beYrI5_JfWad_A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/deeadf09fcaee69e9c24c72eac2295d0 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs on NBC's "Today" at Rockefeller Plaza on Oct. 20, 2014, in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/SZqOSpNFMIVCPhUZu2OiEg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjI0/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ebde238e1a758d4bb08b5eaa4dde53ae class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs on NBC's "Today" at Rockefeller Plaza on Oct. 20, 2014, in New York City.
">Neil Diamond performs on NBC's "Today" at Rockefeller Plaza on Oct. 20, 2014, in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/SZqOSpNFMIVCPhUZu2OiEg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjI0/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ebde238e1a758d4bb08b5eaa4dde53ae class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs at the 84th Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting on Nov. 30, 2016, in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0IeSvOQel8cs0Bda89mzsQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MjU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/f1fcbc0ad69299e40c3e701dc109f811 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs at the 84th Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting on Nov. 30, 2016, in New York City.
">Neil Diamond performs at the 84th Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting on Nov. 30, 2016, in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0IeSvOQel8cs0Bda89mzsQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MjU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/f1fcbc0ad69299e40c3e701dc109f811 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs at the BB&T Center in Sunrise, Florida, on April 26, 2017.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/64exl0IMqfvpzxoS88.e7A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MDM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7c48be80ae42e88fc0b19a5aa371e2c9 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs at the BB&T Center in Sunrise, Florida, on April 26, 2017.
">Neil Diamond performs at the BB&T Center in Sunrise, Florida, on April 26, 2017.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/64exl0IMqfvpzxoS88.e7A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MDM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7c48be80ae42e88fc0b19a5aa371e2c9 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond signs autographs at the Songwriters Hall of Fame 49th annual induction and awards dinner at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 14, 2018, in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.tWAmA4tO8TQ4deXjqQK.Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8ec5b334b2cebde49b1d71ad77e8f5fd class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond signs autographs at the Songwriters Hall of Fame 49th annual induction and awards dinner at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 14, 2018, in New York City.
">Neil Diamond signs autographs at the Songwriters Hall of Fame 49th annual induction and awards dinner at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 14, 2018, in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.tWAmA4tO8TQ4deXjqQK.Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8ec5b334b2cebde49b1d71ad77e8f5fd class=caas-img>Neil Diamond hoists his award during the Songwriters Hall of Fame induction.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/OP74r9VBtwvuS.23nRS2wg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05NDQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d333129a4753f4694bf02d18fe8a0243 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond hoists his award during the Songwriters Hall of Fame induction.
">Neil Diamond hoists his award during the Songwriters Hall of Fame induction.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/OP74r9VBtwvuS.23nRS2wg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05NDQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d333129a4753f4694bf02d18fe8a0243 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond attends the 24th annual Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala benefit for the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health at MGM Grand Garden Arena on March 7, 2020, in Las Vegas.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Sg_arC.Od.vNUHfZt2MZqg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6c10611850d303d2487864ce624b07f1 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond attends the 24th annual Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala benefit for the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health at MGM Grand Garden Arena on March 7, 2020, in Las Vegas.
">Neil Diamond attends the 24th annual Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala benefit for the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health at MGM Grand Garden Arena on March 7, 2020, in Las Vegas.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Sg_arC.Od.vNUHfZt2MZqg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6c10611850d303d2487864ce624b07f1 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond and wife Katie Diamond attend the 39th annual Carousel Ball at Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center on Oct. 11, 2025.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.7Q_BEMH34H4K4V8Lr0sRQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/1c70e48322b8e56b29a9576bba88b9ee class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond and wife Katie Diamond attend the 39th annual Carousel Ball at Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center on Oct. 11, 2025.
">Neil Diamond and wife Katie Diamond attend the 39th annual Carousel Ball at Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center on Oct. 11, 2025.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.7Q_BEMH34H4K4V8Lr0sRQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/1c70e48322b8e56b29a9576bba88b9ee class=caas-img>Neil Diamond, inspirational lifetime achievement award recipient, performs during the 39th annual Carousel Ball in 2025.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/AyxMwIlKX6nPVu1VEpPFew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0adb172539a81c5d3cdd9d86dd5cf71d class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond, inspirational lifetime achievement award recipient, performs during the 39th annual Carousel Ball in 2025.
">Neil Diamond, inspirational lifetime achievement award recipient, performs during the 39th annual Carousel Ball in 2025.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/AyxMwIlKX6nPVu1VEpPFew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0adb172539a81c5d3cdd9d86dd5cf71d class=caas-img>
1 / 27See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'
Singer and songwriter Neil Diamond's music career spans five decades, marked by beloved hits and global acclaim. A look back at his years in music ahead of the Diamond-inspired movie "Song Sung Blue," starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Here, Diamond is seen in London for his first British concert during a tour of Europe in 1971.
So what Neil Diamond songs are NOT in 'Song Sung Blue'?
Other than "America" and "You Don't Bring Me Flowers," here are other painful Diamond misses:
"Love on the Rocks": The song, which peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1981, is one of Diamond's most covered heartbreak songs.
"September Morn": Hugely popular late-’70s hit.
"Hello Again": Staple Diamond track.
"Desirée": We'd desire to see that.
"Solitary Man": Classic!
"Kentucky Woman": Maybe hard to fit into a Milwaukee movie.
"If You Know What I Mean": A 1976 smash.
What is 'Soolaimon'? Why does it dominate 'Song Sung Blue'
In "Song Sung Blue," Milwaukee musician Mike Sardina (Jackman) is obsessed with playing Diamond's song "Soolaimon," a spiritual number titled after a variation of the Arabic greeting, Salamah.
Working the deep cut into the movie became Brewer's obsession to honor Diamond, 84, who retired from performing after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
"It's such an interesting choice for Neil. I'd love to ask him about that song, this call to love and fellowship," says Brewer. "It's not the type of song you'd associate with Neil Diamond, but it really works. I want 'Soolaimon' to be the new graduation song for high school."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Neil Diamond's classic songs in 'Song Sung Blue,' and what got cut
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
