Neil Diamond's 'Song Sung Blue' Left Out: A Deep Dive into the Missing Classics
The movie 'Song Sung Blue' pays tribute to Neil Diamond's illustrious career, but not all of his songs made the cut. Here's a breakdown of the songs that didn't make the final cut, along with a few surprises that might have been left out.
The Missing Classics:
- 'America': Despite its iconic status, 'America' was cut due to space constraints. However, fans can still enjoy a special performance of the song, performed by Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, as an extra on the Blu-ray release.
- 'You Don't Bring Me Flowers': Another fan favorite, this duet with Barbra Streisand, was also left out due to time limitations.
- 'Love on the Rocks': A heartbreak anthem that peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1981, it was a tough decision to leave it out.
- 'September Morn': A late-'70s hit that was a crowd favorite.
- 'Hello Again': A staple Diamond track.
- 'Desirée': A song that would have been a welcome addition.
- 'Solitary Man': A classic that could have added depth to the narrative.
- 'Kentucky Woman': A potential cultural touchstone, especially for a Milwaukee-set movie.
- 'If You Know What I Mean': A 1976 smash that could have brought a different vibe to the soundtrack.
The Surprising Inclusion: 'Soolaimon'
One song that might have been a surprise inclusion is 'Soolaimon,' a spiritual number titled after a variation of the Arabic greeting, Salamah. Milwaukee musician Mike Sardina (Jackman) is obsessed with playing it in the movie, and it became a key part of the narrative.
Despite its deep cut nature, 'Soolaimon' is a powerful choice that showcases Diamond's versatility. It's a call to love and fellowship, a song that might not typically be associated with Diamond, but one that works beautifully in the context of the movie.
Brewer's decision to include 'Soolaimon' is a testament to his dedication to honoring Diamond's legacy. It's a song that could become a new graduation anthem, a hidden gem that deserves more attention.
