In a rare and heartfelt revelation, Elton John has opened up about his long-standing admiration for Neil Diamond, sharing stories and insights that reveal a side of the legendary singer-songwriter the public rarely sees.
Speaking during a recent interview, Elton reflected on the first time he met Neil in the early 1970s, when Diamond was already a towering figure in music with hits like “Sweet Caroline” and “Song Sung Blue.” Elton admitted he was “in awe of Neil’s ability to connect with people, not just through his songs, but through his sheer warmth and presence.”
According to Elton, the real Neil Diamond is far from the stoic, enigmatic figure some fans imagine.
“Neil has this quiet dignity about him, but behind that, he’s incredibly kind, witty, and self-deprecating. He’s the sort of man who will talk more about you than himself. That’s rare in this business.”
Elton also shared that Neil’s humility often overshadowed his own recognition of his impact. “Neil would play these massive arenas, sell millions of records, and still wonder if he was doing enough. That’s the kind of artist he is — never complacent, always striving to give more to the audience.”
Their friendship deepened over the years, especially during moments of personal struggle. Elton recalled a private dinner when Neil, already battling the early signs of Parkinson’s disease, spoke candidly about stepping back from touring in 2018. “He didn’t complain, not once. He just said, ‘I’ve had my turn in the spotlight. Now it’s time to be with my family.’ That’s Neil — graceful, even in goodbye.”
In closing, Elton described Neil as “one of the last true gentlemen of music — a craftsman, a poet, and above all, a friend.”
For Elton John, the real Neil Diamond isn’t just the man behind the hits — he’s a reminder that greatness isn’t measured only in records sold, but in the quiet strength and kindness a person carries through life.