Five of the best from Neil Diamond

• Hot August Night (1972) – Though technically a live album, it’s one of his most iconic releases.
• Tap Root Manuscript (1970) – Featuring the hit single “Cracklin’ Rosie.”
• Beautiful Noise (1976) – Produced by Robbie Robertson of The Band.
• The Jazz Singer (1980) – Soundtrack album that became one of his best-selling releases.
• Home Before Dark (2008) – Debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, his first album to do so.

1. Hot August Night (1972)

“Hot August Night” captures the electricity of his performances at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. Recorded during his summer concerts, this double album showcases Diamond’s powerful vocals and stage presence. It features many of his hit songs and fan favorites, demonstrating why he was one of the most popular singer-songwriters of the era. The album’s title comes from the opening line of his song “Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show.”

“Hot August Night” was a commercial success, reaching high positions on charts worldwide and achieving multi-platinum status in several countries. It remains a quintessential live album of the 1970s, highlighting Diamond’s ability to connect with his audience through his music. The record’s enduring popularity has led to multiple re-releases and deluxe editions over the years, cementing its place in rock and pop music history. For many fans, “Hot August Night” represents the definitive Neil Diamond live experience.

2. Tap Root Manuscript (1970)

“Tap Root Manuscript” marked a significant shift in his musical journey, blending his signature pop-rock style with African-inspired sounds. This concept album, Diamond’s sixth studio release, showcased his experimental side and willingness to explore new musical territories. The record is divided into two distinct parts: the first featuring his traditional pop compositions, including the chart-topping hit “Cracklin’ Rosie,” while the second half presents the ambitious “African Trilogy.”

This suite incorporated authentic African instruments and choral arrangements, reflecting Diamond’s interest in world music. “Tap Root Manuscript” received critical acclaim for its innovative approach and musical diversity. It performed well commercially, reaching high positions on the Billboard charts and solidifying Diamond’s status as a versatile artist. The album’s unique fusion of pop and African elements set it apart from his previous works and influenced his future musical directions, demonstrating Diamond’s growth as a songwriter and performer.

3. Beautiful Noise (1976)

“Beautiful Noise” marked a collaborative milestone in his career, produced by The Band’s Robbie Robertson. This partnership brought a fresh sound to Diamond’s music, blending his signature style with elements of rock and Americana. The album explores themes of urban life, relationships, and personal reflection, showcasing Diamond’s evolving songwriting. “Beautiful Noise” features some of Diamond’s most memorable tracks, including the title song and “If You Know What I Mean,” which became chart successes. The record’s production quality and musical arrangements demonstrate a more sophisticated approach, appealing to both long-time fans and new listeners.

Commercially successful, the album reached high positions on Billboard charts and achieved platinum status. “Beautiful Noise” represents a pivotal moment in Diamond’s discography, balancing his pop sensibilities with a more mature, introspective sound. It solidified his position as a serious artist capable of adapting to changing musical landscapes while maintaining his distinctive voice and style.

4. The Jazz Singer (1980)

“The Jazz Singer” served as the soundtrack to the film remake of the same name, in which Diamond also starred. This record became one of his most commercially successful releases, achieving multi-platinum status and spending an impressive 43 weeks on the Billboard charts. The album features a mix of new compositions and re-recordings of earlier Diamond classics, all tied to the film’s narrative about a young cantor pursuing a career in pop music. It spawned several hit singles, including “Love on the Rocks,” “Hello Again,” and “America,” which became an iconic patriotic anthem.

The Jazz Singer showcased Diamond’s versatility as both a songwriter and performer, blending pop, rock, and traditional Jewish music elements. Despite mixed reviews for the film, the soundtrack’s popularity significantly boosted Diamond’s career, introducing his music to a new generation of listeners and solidifying his status as a pop culture icon of the 1980s.

5. Home Before Dark (2008)

“Home Before Dark” marked a significant milestone in his extensive career, becoming his first album to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. This late-career triumph showcased Diamond’s enduring appeal and songwriting prowess. Produced by Rick Rubin, who also helmed Diamond’s previous album “12 Songs,” “Home Before Dark” continued their successful collaboration, focusing on stripped-down arrangements that emphasized Diamond’s distinctive voice and lyrics.

The album features introspective and deeply personal songs, reflecting on themes of aging, love, and life’s journey. Its acoustic-driven sound appealed to both long-time fans and critics, earning Diamond some of the best reviews of his career. “Home Before Dark” also performed well internationally, topping charts in the UK and other countries. This commercial and critical success demonstrated Diamond’s ability to remain relevant and connect with audiences well into his sixth decade as a recording artist, reinforcing his status as a pop music icon.