The Enduring Popularity of “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond

In 1969, Neil Diamond released “Sweet Caroline” as a single off his album Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show.

The song quickly became a hit, reaching No. 4 on Billboard Hot 100 while ranking No. 3 on Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. It also charted in other countries, such as Australia, Canada, and South Africa. It also peaked at No. 8 on the UK Singles Chart.

RELATED: Presley Covers “Sweet Caroline”; Diamond Shares Thoughts

Since its release, the catchy tune has continued to make an impact and proved to be enduringly popular. In fact, “Sweet Caroline” returned to the UK Singles Chart in 2021, when 60,000 people belted it out at Wembley Stadium as England fought to qualify for the finals during the UEFA Men’s Euro 2020. A couple of hours later, the song blasted out of the speakers again to celebrate England’s win.

They said the song “kind of become like a good-luck charm in this tournament.”

While its popularity never waned, many people wonder what are the lyrics and meaning behind “Sweet Caroline.”

The Song Has Proven To Be Enduringly Popular

Written by Neil Diamond, “Sweet Caroline” was said to be an ode to the then-young daughter of late president John F. Kennedy. Diamond noted that the song was inspired by an innocent, sweet photo of Caroline Kennedy he found on a magazine cover.

However, in 2014, the singer revealed the truth behind the hit. Diamond said he penned the song with his second wife, Marcia Murphey, in his mind. The couple tied the knot in 1969 but later divorced after twenty-six years of being married. 

However, Diamond needed a three-syllable name that would suit the melody. The name Caroline is one of the selections he wrote down, and it just fitted the song perfectly.

Make sure to listen to Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” in the video below.