About the song
Released in 1972, “Song Sung Blue” is one of Neil Diamond’s most beloved and deceptively simple compositions. Featured on his album Moods, the song became a number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100, earning Diamond two Grammy nominations and further solidifying his reputation as a master pop craftsman.
Diamond was inspired by the second movement of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21, taking a classical melody and reshaping it into something universally accessible — a gentle ballad about sorrow, resilience, and the healing power of music.
The sound and style:
“Song Sung Blue” is warm, soft, and unpretentious. It opens with a mellow acoustic rhythm, accompanied by a gentle piano, subtle percussion, and Neil’s iconic baritone — full of gravel and soul.
Key elements:
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A simple, singable melody, almost lullaby-like in its phrasing
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An easygoing rhythm, ideal for swaying or humming along
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A gospel-tinged chorus, with backing vocals that lift the spirit of the track
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A production style that emphasizes intimacy and human connection over studio polish
Despite its simplicity, the arrangement is emotionally resonant — a reminder that sometimes, less truly is more.
Lyrical themes and tone:
“Song sung blue, everybody knows one / Song sung blue, every garden grows one…”
At its heart, “Song Sung Blue” is about accepting sadness as a natural part of life — not something to fear, but something to acknowledge, sing about, and move through.
Themes include:
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Melancholy and emotional release
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The universality of sorrow
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How music and singing can transform pain into peace
There’s no melodrama here. Instead, Diamond delivers the message with gentleness and wisdom, as if he’s talking directly to the listener, saying: It’s okay to feel blue. Sing it out. You’ll feel better.
Legacy and impact:
“Song Sung Blue” was a major success:
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Reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and Adult Contemporary chart
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Nominated for Record of the Year and Song of the Year at the 1973 Grammy Awards
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Became one of Neil Diamond’s signature songs, covered by artists like Andy Williams and Bobby Darin
Its simplicity and emotional warmth made it a staple of 1970s pop radio and a favorite at live performances. Even decades later, it continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
Final thoughts:
“Song Sung Blue” is a gentle anthem for the everyday heartaches of life, reminding us that sadness is not something to hide — it’s something to acknowledge, express, and share. Through Neil Diamond’s straightforward lyrics and soothing melody, the song becomes a comforting companion, offering both solace and uplift.
It’s the kind of song that doesn’t need to be grand to be profound. With just a few chords and an open heart, Diamond captures something universal — and turns a moment of sadness into a quiet celebration of resilience.
Video
Lyrics
“Song Sung Blue”
Song sung blue, everybody knows one
Song sung blue, every garden grows oneMe and you are subject to
The blues now and then
But when you take the blues
And make a song
You sing ’em out again
You sing ’em out againSong sung blue, weeping like a willow
Song sung blue, sleeping on my pillow
Funny thing,
But you can sing it with a cry in your voice
And before you know it get to feeling good
You simply got no choiceMe and you are subject to
The blues now and then
But when you take the blues
And make a song
You sing ’em out againSong sung blue, weeping like a willow
Song sung blue, sleeping on my pillow
Funny thing,
But you can sing it with a cry in your voice
And before you know it start to feeling good
You simply got no choiceSong sung blue
Song sung blue
Funny thing,
But you can sing it with a cry in your voice