Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day.  And if this helps anyone else, even better.

Today in 1970 Neil Diamond had the #1 song in the country with “Cracklin’ Rosie”. That tune was the pick for Day 30 so I will choose another from his vast & fabulous catalog to spotlight to honor the anniversary of one of his hit records. That will not be hard at all as I absolutely adore so much of his music. One of my very favorites is from his 1971 album, “Stones”. It is an introspective tune that Diamond said in an interview he wrote while he was in therapy after moving to the west coast. Whatever the impetus was for him to write this song, it is a beautiful evocative number with gorgeous layers of music, from the haunting cello in the first verse to the acoustic guitar interludes to the string & horn arrangements. I also think it has some of the most compelling lyrics Diamond ever recorded carried out in one of his best vocal performances.

“But I got an emptiness deep inside
And I’ve tried but it won’t let me go
And I’m not a man who likes to swear
But I never cared for the sound of being alone“.

Neil Diamond circa 1973. (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Neil Diamond: “I Am…I Said” (1971, written by Neil Diamond).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.