Darl Messy
Before Neil Diamond became a star in his own right, his greatest successes were sung by other people. That early chapter as a songwriter-for-hire shaped everything that followed. Here is a look at that side of his work.
A writer first
Diamond entered the music business as a songwriter rather than a performer.
Pitching songs to artists
His job involved writing material that other acts might record and release.
“I’m a Believer” for The Monkees
His best-known composition for another act became an enormous hit for the group.
Proof of his commercial instinct
The song’s success demonstrated his ability to write broadly appealing melodies.
Recognition within the industry
Writing a major hit gave him credibility among producers and labels.
Learning what connects
Seeing which songs succeeded taught him what audiences respond to.
Songs covered by many others
Over the years numerous artists have recorded their own versions of his compositions.
Crossing genres
His songs have been interpreted across pop, country and rock styles.
Royalties and longevity
A strong catalog of compositions provides income and relevance long after release.
Songwriters Hall of Fame
His induction there recognized his writing specifically, apart from his performing.
Writing beyond touring
After retiring from the road, he indicated he would continue writing and recording.
Why his writing endures
Songs strong enough for other artists to record are songs built to last.
Image sources: All photographs on this page come from Wikimedia Commons and are used under their respective free licences, with credit to each photographer as shown in the captions above.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings