Neil Diamond’s “Cherry, Cherry”: A Timeless Gem from 1966
Neil Diamond is a name that resonates with fans of classic American pop music, and one of the songs that truly put him on the map was the catchy and exuberant “Cherry, Cherry.” Released in 1966, this song quickly became a defining moment in Diamond’s early career, capturing the hearts of listeners and climbing its way up the charts to reach a respectable No. 6 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and Cash Box charts. It’s a song that continues to be celebrated for its simplicity and infectious energy, standing as a testament to Diamond’s talent as both a songwriter and performer.
The story behind “Cherry, Cherry” is as compelling as the song itself. Initially recorded in the early months of 1966, the track was originally meant to serve as a demo. The production team behind this hit included some of the era’s most notable figures—Artie Butler arranged the piece, while the legendary Jeff Barry and Ellie Greenwich took on the roles of producers. It’s worth noting that Greenwich, who was an influential figure in the music industry, contributed significantly to the song, not just in production but also by adding her voice to the chorus, giving the song that extra layer of charm that listeners instantly fell in love with.
One of the fascinating aspects of “Cherry, Cherry” is its origin. Neil Diamond himself has mentioned that the song was inspired by a personal experience—an early relationship with a woman much older than him. This element of personal connection perhaps explains the song’s authentic feel and why it resonates so deeply with audiences. The simplicity of the song’s structure—often hailed as one of the greatest three-chord songs of all time by publications like Rolling Stone—is a big part of its enduring appeal. It’s a straightforward, feel-good tune that invites you to tap your feet and sing along, regardless of how many times you’ve heard it.
The reception of “Cherry, Cherry” upon its release was overwhelmingly positive. Billboard magazine praised the single for its “exciting production,” highlighting the “bass piano backing and choral support” that complemented Diamond’s dynamic vocal performance. Similarly, Cash Box described the song as a “lively, pulsating chorus-backed romancer with an infectious repeating riff,” which perfectly encapsulates the energy and vibe of the track. Record World echoed these sentiments, calling it “groovy” and emphasizing the “nifty piano and guitar backing” that was sure to get teens dancing.
Beyond its initial release, “Cherry, Cherry” continued to make waves. In 1973, a live version of the song was released as a single from Neil Diamond’s live album Hot August Night. This version brought a fresh energy to the song, with Billboard noting that the “live sound and the bouncing arrangement makes it almost a different song” compared to the original studio recording. The live rendition managed to chart as well, reaching No. 24 on the Cash Box chart and No. 31 on the Billboard Hot 100, proving the song’s lasting appeal.
In conclusion, “Cherry, Cherry” is more than just a hit single; it’s a significant milestone in Neil Diamond’s illustrious career. With its simple yet effective melody, engaging lyrics, and the unique charm that only Diamond can bring, it’s no wonder that the song remains a beloved classic to this day. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new listener, “Cherry, Cherry” is a song that effortlessly captures the joy and spirit of the 1960s, making it a timeless gem in the world of pop music.